26 Bible Verses About The Tongue

Words are powerful. They can build up or tear down, heal or hurt, inspire or discourage. The tongue, though small, wields an incredible influence over our lives and the lives of those around us. It’s like a tiny rudder steering a massive ship—seemingly insignificant, yet capable of setting the course for our relationships and personal growth.

In a world where words are often tossed around carelessly, it’s crucial to remember the impact they can have. The Bible, with its timeless wisdom, offers profound insights into the power of the tongue and the responsibility that comes with it. Whether you’re navigating a tricky conversation, striving to speak life into others, or simply seeking to align your words with your values, these 26 Bible verses about the tongue will guide and inspire you on your journey.

26 Bible Verses About The Tongue

Verses About Power of the Tongue
Verses About Truthfulness
Verses About Wisdom in Speech
Verses About Encouragement and Edification
Verses About Avoiding Gossip and Slander

The tongue holds immense power, capable of both building up and tearing down. In the book of Proverbs, we are reminded that words can bring life or death. This duality highlights the responsibility that comes with our speech. Just as a small rudder steers a large ship, the tongue can direct the course of our lives and the lives of others. Reflecting on this, consider how your words can shape your world and the world of those around you.

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.”

James 3:8: “But no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.”

Truthfulness is a cornerstone of integrity, and the Bible emphasizes the importance of speaking truthfully. In the story of Ananias and Sapphira, we see the consequences of deceit and the value placed on honesty within the early church. Truthful speech fosters trust and strengthens relationships, serving as a foundation for genuine community and connection.

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

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

Proverbs 6:16–17: “There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood.”

Psalm 34:13: “Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.”

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.”

Choosing words wisely is a mark of maturity and understanding. The book of James speaks to the importance of taming the tongue, urging believers to be quick to listen and slow to speak. Wisdom in speech involves knowing when to speak and when to remain silent, ensuring that our words reflect discernment and insight.

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

Proverbs 17:27: “The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.”

Ecclesiastes 5:2: “Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.”

Proverbs 15:28: “The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.”

James 1:19: “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”

Words have the power to uplift and inspire. Encouragement and edification are vital aspects of communication within a faith community. The apostle Paul often wrote letters to early churches, filled with words of encouragement and hope. These letters served to strengthen believers and build them up in their faith, demonstrating the profound impact of positive speech.

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.”

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 10:24–25: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

Colossians 4:6: “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”

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

Gossip and slander can be destructive forces within any community. The Bible warns against these behaviors, highlighting the harm they can cause. Avoiding gossip and slander involves guarding our tongues and choosing to speak words that promote peace and unity. By refraining from negative speech, we contribute to a healthier and more harmonious environment.

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

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

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.”

Psalm 101:5: “Whoever slanders their neighbor in secret, I will put to silence; whoever has haughty eyes and a proud heart, I will not tolerate.”