“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” – Proverbs 18:21
bible verses about unkind words
The Power of Our Words
We often underestimate the power of our words. As believers, we are called to speak life and encouragement, rather than harshness or negativity. The Bible teaches that our words can bring healing, joy, and hope to those around us. When we consider the weight our words carry, it’s crucial that we strive to choose them wisely. Instead of allowing unkind words to take root in our conversations, let us commit to using our speech to uplift and inspire. This shift in our communication can create a more positive environment in our relationships and communities.
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.” – James 1:19
Proverbs 12:18
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” – Proverbs 12:18
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
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.” – Ephesians 4:29
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” – Colossians 4:6
Encouragement and Kindness
We are called to be a source of encouragement for one another. When we engage in conversations, we have the opportunity to offer kindness through our words. Being kind is not just about avoiding unkind words; it is about actively choosing to express love, support, and encouragement to those around us. Kindness in our speech reflects our hearts and can have a profound effect on others’ lives. Let us remind ourselves daily to speak words that build others up and bring joy into the lives of those we encounter.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
Proverbs 16:24
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” – Proverbs 16:24
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.” – Hebrews 3:13
Proverbs 25:11
“Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a ruling rightly given.” – Proverbs 25:11
Guarding Our Hearts
The words we speak are a reflection of what is in our hearts. When we focus on filling our hearts with goodness, love, and truth, our words will naturally reflect that. Let’s strive to guard our hearts, as they are the source that determines the conversation we have with others. By being intentional about what we allow to shape our hearts and minds, we can cultivate a spirit that speaks kindness and grace. May we be vigilant in our heart’s posture so that our words bring life instead of pain.
Proverbs 4:23
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23
Matthew 12:34
“For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” – Matthew 12:34
Luke 6:45
“A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart.” – Luke 6:45
Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” – Philippians 4:8
Proverbs 15:28
“The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.” – Proverbs 15:28
The Impact of Our Words
The impact of our words can extend beyond our immediate surroundings. Each kind word we offer can have a ripple effect, inspiring and uplifting not just the person we are speaking to but also those who may hear our conversation. We have the beautiful opportunity to influence others positively through our speech. Therefore, let us remember that unkind words can hurt deeply, while kind words can heal and inspire. By choosing our words wisely, we can help create a society that reflects love and hope.
Proverbs 16:21
“The wise in heart are called discerning, and gracious words promote instruction.” – Proverbs 16:21
Matthew 5:13
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.” – Matthew 5:13
Proverbs 10:31
“The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but the perverse tongue will be cut off.” – Proverbs 10:31
Ephesians 5:4
“Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.” – Ephesians 5:4
Proverbs 18:4
“The words of the mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a rushing stream.” – Proverbs 18:4
Taking Responsibility for Our Words
As followers of Christ, we should recognize that we are accountable for the words we speak. Our conversations can either build up or tear down, and it’s important we take responsibility for the words we choose. By acknowledging our influence, we can make a conscious effort to speak only what is kind and true. Let’s commit to examining our speech and ensuring that it aligns with our faith. We serve as ambassadors of Christ and our words should reflect His love.
Matthew 12:36
“But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.” – Matthew 12:36
Proverbs 21:23
“Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.” – Proverbs 21:23
Luke 12:3
“What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs.” – Luke 12:3
Proverbs 19:1
“Better a poor person whose walk is blameless than a fool whose lips are perverse.” – Proverbs 19:1
Ephesians 5:19
“Speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord.” – Ephesians 5:19
Seeking Forgiveness for Unkind Words
In moments where we may have let unkind words slip, recognizing our mistakes and seeking forgiveness is vital. The Bible encourages us to come forward in humility and ask for forgiveness—not only from those we may have hurt but also from God. This can lead to healing and reconciliation, allowing us to restore broken relationships. Let us remember the grace we receive and be willing to extend that same grace to others. Embracing forgiveness can bring peace to our hearts and strengthen our bonds with one another.
1 John 1:9
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” – 1 John 1:9
James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16
Matthew 6:14
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” – Matthew 6:14
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the power of our words, it’s clear that they can either build up or tear down. We recognize the importance of speaking kindness and support, rather than letting unkindness shape our conversations. By guarding our hearts and being mindful of our speech, we create a positive atmosphere around us. Encouraging one another should be a mission we all embrace. Forgiveness is another crucial aspect, both in giving and receiving. When we seek to promote love and understanding through our words, we truly embody the spirit of Christ.
Let us commit to serving as channels of grace, uplifting those around us with our speech. Our words can bring healing and inspiration to a world in need. It’s never too late to start choosing kindness in our conversations. If you want to explore more on this topic, check out bible verses about kindness and generosity or consider reading bible verses about keeping your mouth shut.
May our words always be filled with grace and truth, as we strive to represent Christ in all that we do.