Today we will talk about Bible verses about the tongue (KJV). Our tongues are mighty instruments; they can bring blessings or cause great harm. As we navigate our daily lives, we often forget the power that our words hold. When we explore the scriptures, we see a clear message about the importance of speaking wisely and kindly. Our tongues can be used to uplift others, spread love, and share the Good News of Jesus Christ. However, they can also be the source of gossip, anger, and division if we are not careful. The Bible teaches us that how we use our tongues reflects the condition of our hearts. As we dive into these verses today, let’s open our hearts and minds to the wisdom they offer. Together, we can learn how to harness the power of our words for God’s glory!
Bible Verses About The Tongue KJV
Power of Words
When we think about the power of words, it’s easy to forget that our tongues hold incredible influence. Just as we can build someone up with a kind word, we can easily tear them down with harsh criticism. It’s important for us to remember that our words carry weight. Proverbs reminds us that the tongue has the power of life and death, calling us to choose our words wisely. As we reflect on these verses, let’s commit to using our tongues to share encouragement and love, rather than negativity and strife. By doing so, we reflect the heart of God and honor His creation.
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 21:23
“Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.” – Proverbs 21:23
Colossians 4:6
“Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” – Colossians 4:6
Taming the Tongue
Taming the tongue is a challenge for all of us. The Bible clearly states that if we can control our speech, we show great maturity and self-control. James emphasizes the difficulty of mastering our tongue, comparing it to the powerful influences of a bit in a horse’s mouth or a rudder on a ship. These illustrations remind us that while small, our tongues can guide the direction of our lives and influence those around us. With God’s help, we can learn to manage our words and use our voices in ways that reflect His love and truth.
James 1:19
“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.” – James 1:19
James 3:2
“For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.” – James 3:2
Psalms 141:3
“Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.” – Psalms 141:3
Proverbs 13:3
“He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.” – Proverbs 13:3
Proverbs 15:1
“A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
Words that Uplift
Words can either lift someone up or bring them down, and it’s vital that we use our tongues to encourage and support those around us. The Bible encourages us to speak words of kindness, comfort, and hope. Each time we choose uplifting speech, we contribute to a positive atmosphere that can lead to healing, joy, and community. Let’s make it our mission to be vessels of positivity, shining God’s love through our words. In doing so, we create opportunities to show the love of Christ to others.
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
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
Psalms 19:14
“Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.” – Psalms 19:14
Hebrews 10:24
“And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works.” – Hebrews 10:24
Proverbs 16:24
“Pleasant words are as a honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.” – Proverbs 16:24
The Harm of Gossip
Gossip is often seen as harmless chatter, but the Bible warns us of its dangers. Engaging in gossip not only hurts others, but it can also damage our relationships and our own spiritual health. It’s essential for us to recognize the severe consequences of speaking poorly of others. Gossip leads to division, mistrust, and pain. Through the verses about the tongue, we learn to avoid gossip and instead speak with integrity and respect for others. When we choose to refrain from gossip, we help to foster an environment of love and unity.
Proverbs 16:28
“A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.” – Proverbs 16:28
Psalms 50:19
“Thou givest thy mouth to evil, and thy tongue frameth deceit.” – Psalms 50:19
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 11:13
“A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.” – Proverbs 11:13
1 Peter 2:1
“Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings.” – 1 Peter 2:1
The Importance of Listening
While our tongues are used for speaking, we must also recognize the importance of listening. Listening often requires more focus and intent than speaking itself. When we take the time to listen, we show genuine love and concern for others. The Bible encourages us to be quick to listen and slow to speak, emphasizing the value of understanding before reacting. By developing the skill of listening, we foster healthier relationships and build stronger bonds with our friends and family. Let’s remember that God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason!
Proverbs 18:13
“He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.” – Proverbs 18:13
James 1:19
“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.” – James 1:19
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
Psalms 37:7
“Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.” – Psalms 37:7
Proverbs 9:9
“Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.” – Proverbs 9:9
Speaking Truth
Speaking truth is essential in our walk of faith. The Bible teaches us about the significance of honesty and integrity in our words. When we commit to speaking the truth, we not only honor ourselves but also honor God. It’s easy to default to flattery or half-truths, but as followers of Christ, we are called to be beacons of honesty. Speaking the truth is crucial for building trust in relationships and maintaining a clear conscience before God. Let’s strive to let our words reflect His truth in all circumstances.
Ephesians 4:15
“But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.” – Ephesians 4:15
Proverbs 12:22
“Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight.” – Proverbs 12:22
Zechariah 8:16
“These are the things that ye shall do; Speak ye every man the truth to his neighbor; execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates.” – Zechariah 8:16
John 8:32
“And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” – John 8:32
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
Being Mindful with Speech
Being mindful with our speech is an essential part of living a life that pleases God. The Bible encourages us to think before we speak, as our words can have lasting effects. It is wise for us to reflect on the consequences of our speech and to filter our words through the lens of love and grace. By being intentional in our speech, we can create positive interactions and build up those around us. Mindfulness in our conversations can lead to grace-filled and loving environments, making the most of every opportunity to share God’s love.
Colossians 3:8
“But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.” – Colossians 3:8
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
Proverbs 25:11
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.” – Proverbs 25:11
Ephesians 5:4
“Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.” – Ephesians 5:4
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
The Role of the Tongue in Worship
The role of the tongue in our worship cannot be understated. As we come together in worship, our speech becomes a powerful way to express our love for God and our gratitude for His blessings. Singing praises, offering prayers, and sharing testimonies are all ways we can use our tongues for divine purposes. By engaging our tongues in worship, we invite the presence of God into our midst and deepen our relationship with Him. Together, let’s allow our tongues to become instruments of praise and worship, celebrating God’s goodness with every word we speak!
Psalms 81:1
“Sing aloud unto God our strength: make a joyful noise unto the God of Jacob.” – Psalms 81:1
Hebrews 13:15
“By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.” – Hebrews 13:15
Psalms 34:1
“I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” – Psalms 34:1
Psalms 100:2
“Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.” – Psalms 100:2
Colossians 3:16
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” – Colossians 3:16
Final Thoughts
As we have explored these Bible verses about the tongue, we see a beautiful truth unfold. Our tongues serve as powerful instruments that, when used rightly, can uplift, inspire, and bring joy to those around us. We are also reminded of our need to be diligent in taming our tongues, avoiding gossip, and being mindful of our words. Through speaking truth and generosity, we foster a loving community that reflects Christ’s heart. Let us take these lessons to heart and encourage one another to wield our speech with care. Together, we can create an environment filled with grace, love, and understanding, using our voices to glorify God in everything we say and do.
May we always strive to be a source of light in the world, reminding each other that our words truly have the power of life and death. Together, let’s continue to be mindful of our tongues, using them wisely and for the glory of God!
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
Bible Commentary, Blog
30 Important Nailed To The Cross Bible Verse (With Explanation)