25 Bible Verses About Controlling Your Tongue

Words are powerful. They can build up or tear down, heal or hurt, inspire or discourage. Yet, how often do we find ourselves speaking without thinking, letting our tongues run wild? In a world where communication is instant and often impulsive, the challenge of controlling our words is more relevant than ever.

The Bible, with its timeless wisdom, offers profound insights into the importance of taming our tongues. It reminds us that our words reflect our hearts and have the power to shape our relationships and communities. Whether it’s a gentle reminder to speak with kindness or a stern warning about the consequences of careless speech, Scripture provides guidance for those seeking to harness the power of their words for good.

In this article, we’ll explore 25 Bible verses that delve into the art of controlling your tongue. These verses serve as a compass, guiding us toward more thoughtful, intentional, and loving communication.

25 Bible Verses About Controlling Your Tongue

Verses About The Power of Words
Verses About Guarding Your Speech
Verses About Speaking Truth
Verses About Encouraging Others
Verses About Avoiding Gossip and Slander

Words have the power to build up or tear down, to inspire or to wound. The Bible often highlights the significance of our speech, reminding us that our words can have a profound impact on those around us. Just as God spoke the world into existence, our words can create realities in the lives of others. Consider how the scriptures emphasize the weight and influence of what we say.

Proverbs 18:21: “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”

James 3:5–6: “Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.”

Proverbs 12:18: “The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”

Proverbs 15:4: “The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.”

Matthew 12:36–37: “But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”

Guarding your speech is about being mindful of the words that leave your mouth. The book of Proverbs is filled with wisdom on this topic, urging believers to be cautious and deliberate in their speech. It’s about recognizing that not every thought needs to be spoken and that silence can sometimes be more powerful than words. This discipline helps prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.

Proverbs 21:23: “Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.”

Psalm 141:3: “Set a guard over my mouth, LORD; keep watch over the door of my lips.”

James 1:26: “Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.”

Proverbs 13:3: “Those who guard their lips preserve their lives, but those who speak rashly will come to ruin.”

Proverbs 10:19: “Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.”

Speaking truth is a cornerstone of integrity and authenticity. The Bible encourages believers to be honest and transparent, reflecting the nature of God, who is truth. In a world where deception can be tempting, speaking truth builds trust and strengthens relationships. It’s about aligning your words with your values and being a reliable source of honesty in your community.

Ephesians 4:25: “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.”

Proverbs 12:22: “The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.”

Zechariah 8:16: “These are the things you are to do: Speak the truth to each other, and render true and sound judgment in your courts.”

Colossians 3:9: “Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices.”

Encouraging others is a vital aspect of using your words for good. The New Testament often highlights the importance of building each other up, especially within the body of Christ. Encouragement can come in many forms—whether it’s a kind word, a note of appreciation, or a heartfelt prayer. It’s about using your speech to uplift and support those around you, fostering a spirit of unity and love.

1 Thessalonians 5:11: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

Proverbs 16:24: “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”

Hebrews 3:13: “But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called ‘Today,’ so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.”

Ephesians 4:29: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

Proverbs 15:23: “A person finds joy in giving an apt reply—and how good is a timely word!”

Proverbs 25:11: “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.”

Avoiding gossip and slander is crucial for maintaining harmony and trust within any community. The Bible warns against the dangers of spreading rumors and speaking ill of others, as these actions can lead to division and hurt. It’s about choosing to speak with integrity and refraining from conversations that can harm reputations or relationships. By steering clear of gossip, you contribute to a culture of respect and kindness.

Proverbs 20:19: “A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.”

James 4:11: “Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it.”

Proverbs 16:28: “A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.”

Leviticus 19:16: “Do not go about spreading slander among your people. Do not do anything that endangers your neighbor’s life. I am the LORD.”

Proverbs 11:13: “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.”