Today we will talk about bible verses about controlling your tongue (kjv). It’s amazing how much power our words possess. Whether we are encouraging, criticizing, or simply chatting, our tongue can shape our relationships and experiences. As we delve into the Scriptures, let’s take a moment to reflect on the importance of controlling our speech. The Bible encourages us to be mindful of what we say, and how we say it, reminding us that our words can be either a blessing or a curse. With this understanding, let us explore some verses that can guide us in taming our tongues and communicating wisely.
bible verses about controlling your tongue (kjv)
The Power of Words
In our journey of faith, we come to realize that words have immense power. They can uplift spirits and encourage one another, or they can tear down and cause deep wounds. We must be conscious about how we use our tongues, as the Bible instructs us. Our words should reflect love, kindness, and patience. When we think before we speak, we can transform conversations into opportunities for growth and positivity. Let’s embrace the wisdom of the Scriptures to guide our conversations, ensuring they align with the values of compassion and grace.
Proverbs 18:21
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” – Proverbs 18:21
James 3:5
“Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!” – James 3:5
Proverbs 12:18
“There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.” – Proverbs 12:18
Proverbs 15:4
“A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.” – Proverbs 15:4
Ecclesiastes 3:7
“A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;” – Ecclesiastes 3:7
The Importance of Listening
Sometimes, controlling our tongue means embracing silence and focusing on listening more actively. When we listen, we acknowledge others’ feelings and opinions, fostering better understanding and compassion. Being slow to speak and quick to listen can transform our interactions and lead to deeper connections. By valuing what others say, we create a respectful environment where everyone feels heard. In this way, we can use the teachings in Scripture to remind us of the importance of listening in our daily lives.
James 1:19
“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:” – James 1:19
Proverbs 18:13
“He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.” – Proverbs 18:13
Proverbs 21:23
“Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.” – Proverbs 21:23
Proverbs 29:20
“Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him.” – Proverbs 29:20
Ecclesiastes 5:3
“For a dream cometh through the multitude of business; and a fool’s voice is known by multitude of words.” – Ecclesiastes 5:3
Speaking Truthfully
It is vital for us to be honest in our conversations. Speaking the truth is a cornerstone of healthy relationships and meaningful interactions. Our words should reflect authenticity, as deceit only complicates our lives. When we commit to speaking truthfully, we honor our relationships and nurture trust. The Scriptures remind us that honesty does not just come from our lips but from the heart. Let’s make it our mission to uphold truth in our tongue, ensuring our words inspire confidence and integrity.
Ephesians 4:25
“Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor: for we are members one of another.” – Ephesians 4:25
Proverbs 6:16-19
“These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.” – Proverbs 6:16-19
Colossians 3:9
“Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;” – Colossians 3:9
Proverbs 12:22
“Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight.” – Proverbs 12:22
Psalm 34:13
“Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.” – Psalm 34:13
Encouragement and Edification
Our words should serve as tools for encouragement and edification. When we uplift others with our speech, we become vessels of God’s love. Encouraging words can make a tremendous impact, fostering hope and belief in others. The Bible teaches us to build one another up and strengthen our communities through supportive conversations. By focusing on positive dialogues, we can brighten someone’s day and inspire them to pursue their passions. Let’s strive to use our tongues as instruments of encouragement, echoing the warmth of Christ in our words.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Ephesians 4:29
“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” – Ephesians 4:29
Proverbs 10:11
“The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.” – Proverbs 10:11
Proverbs 25:11
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.” – Proverbs 25:11
Romans 14:19
“Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.” – Romans 14:19
Resisting Negative Speech
We understand that sometimes it can be challenging to resist negative speech, especially in the heat of disagreement. However, the Bible encourages us to rise above negativity by practicing patience and kindness. When confronted with criticism or harsh words, we have the power to choose our response. Let’s actively work to curtail gossip, slander, and any form of negativity that can harm others. By fostering a culture of positivity and respect through our conversations, we embody the principles taught in the Scriptures and significantly impact our surroundings.
James 4:11
“Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.” – James 4:11
Proverbs 20:19
“He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.” – Proverbs 20:19
Proverbs 10:19
“In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.” – Proverbs 10:19
Matthew 12:36
“But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.” – Matthew 12:36
1 Peter 3:10
“For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:” – 1 Peter 3:10
The Role of Wisdom
Wisdom plays a crucial role in controlling our tongues. It gives us insight on when to speak and when to hold back. Through prayer and reflection, we can seek divine wisdom that guides our conversations. The Bible teaches us to pursue a wise heart, which is essential in choosing our words carefully. When we rely on wisdom, we become more empathetic, thoughtful, and respectful in our communication. Let’s pray for wisdom to disciple our thoughts and words, ensuring they reflect the love and compassion that God desires.
Proverbs 10:32
“The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness.” – Proverbs 10:32
Proverbs 16:23
“The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.” – Proverbs 16:23
Proverbs 1:5
“A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:” – Proverbs 1:5
Proverbs 2:6
“For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.” – Proverbs 2:6
Proverbs 3:13
“Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.” – Proverbs 3:13
Prayer for Guidance
We cannot underestimate the power of prayer when seeking to control our tongues. By inviting God into our conversations, we align our hearts with His will and gain clarity on what to say and when. Surrendering our words to God helps us speak with love and grace. It’s a beautiful practice to ask for His guidance before speaking. When we make prayer a priority, we can rest in the assurance that God will lead us toward the words that honor Him and glorify His name. Together, let’s commit to praying for wisdom and self-control as we interact with one another.
Psalm 141:3
“Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.” – Psalm 141:3
Philippians 4:6
“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” – Philippians 4:6
Colossians 4:2
“Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;” – Colossians 4:2
1 Chronicles 16:11
“Seek the Lord and his strength, seek his face continually.” – 1 Chronicles 16:11
James 1:5
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” – James 1:5
Maintaining a Grateful Heart
Having a grateful heart influences the way we communicate. When we recognize the blessings and goodness in our lives, it reflects in our speech. Gratitude cultivates positivity, shaping our interactions and encouraging kindness. The Bible teaches that a heart full of thankfulness ushers in joy, which spills over into our conversations. By focusing on gratitude, we can share words of appreciation and encouragement. Let’s be intentional in nurturing a spirit of thankfulness, knowing that it will enhance the way we control our tongues and share our hearts.
Colossians 3:17
“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” – Colossians 3:17
1 Thessalonians 5:18
“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Psalm 100:4
“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.” – Psalm 100:4
Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” – Philippians 4:8
Psalm 136:1
“O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever.” – Psalm 136:1
Final Thoughts
In navigating through the Scriptures concerning bible verses about controlling your tongue (kjv), we discover the profound impact our words can have on ourselves and those around us. Recognizing the power of our speech can inspire us to pursue a lifestyle of mindfulness, gratitude, and integrity. By committing to honoring God with our words, we ultimately build stronger connections and spread love within our communities. It is a journey that requires prayer, wisdom, and intention. Together, let us strive to embody the encouragement that these verses provide and make a conscious effort every day to use our tongues for good.
As we continue to practice controlling our speech, we will undoubtedly notice the fruits of our labor manifest in our relationships. Remind each other of the importance of uplifting conversations and listening actively. Our words can shape the world around us, and by nurturing a spirit of kindness, we can create a ripple effect of positivity. Let’s embrace this journey together, leaning on God’s guidance as we strive for a life that reflects His love and compassion through our conversations.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4