What does the Bible say about waiting to speak?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that wise and godly speech begins with humble patience: listening carefully, restraining quick words, and speaking only what is true, fitting, and helpful. James 1:19 calls believers to be quick to hear and slow to speak, while Proverbs 18:13 warns against answering before listening. Proverbs repeatedly commends self-control, since many words invite sin, but guarding the mouth preserves life. Ecclesiastes 3:7 recognizes that there is a time to keep silence and a time to speak. Through the Spirit, Christians are to weigh their words prayerfully, seeking speech that builds others up and reflects God’s wisdom.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- James 1:19
So, then, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger;
- Proverbs 18:13
He who gives answer before he hears, That is folly and shame to him.
- Proverbs 10:19
In the multitude of words there is no lack of disobedience, But he who restrains his lips does wisely.
- Proverbs 29:20
Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
- Proverbs 21:23
Whoever guards his mouth and his tongue Keeps his soul from troubles.
- Proverbs 15:28
The heart of the righteous weighs answers, But the mouth of the wicked gushes out evil.
- Ephesians 4:29
Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but such as is good for building up as the need may be, that it may give grace to those who hear.
- Psalms 141:3
Set a watch, Yahweh, before my mouth. Keep the door of my lips.
- Ecclesiastes 3:7
A time to tear, And a time to sew; A time to keep silence, And a time to speak;
- Proverbs 13:3
He who guards his mouth guards his soul. One who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.
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