The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. – Proverbs 18:21
The Power of Our Words
We often forget the immense power our words hold. The Bible teaches us that our tongues can either build up or tear down. They can create life-affirming moments or create wounds that last a lifetime. We should cherish the ability to communicate and use our words wisely. When we understand this power of our words, we are inspired to use them thoughtfully to encourage, uplift and spread positivity. It is essential for us to be mindful of our speech and strive to practice tongue control in everything we say.
James 3:5
“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!” – James 3:5
Proverbs 12:18
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” – Proverbs 12:18
Proverbs 15:4
“The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.” – Proverbs 15:4
Proverbs 21:23
“Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.” – Proverbs 21:23
Ecclesiastes 10:12
“Words from the wise are gracious, but fools are consumed by their own lips.” – Ecclesiastes 10:12
The Importance of Listening
One important aspect of tongue control involves the art of listening. Often, we focus so much on speaking that we fail to realize how impactful listening can be. By taking the time to listen, we show respect for others and foster better communication. The Bible highlights that wise people listen before they speak, which leads to greater understanding and harmony among us.
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 18:13
“To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.” – Proverbs 18:13
Proverbs 20:5
“The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out.” – Proverbs 20:5
Proverbs 1:5
“Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.” – Proverbs 1:5
Proverbs 15:22
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” – Proverbs 15:22
Building Others Up
As we think about tongue control, we should also remember our calling to build each other up in love. Our words have the ability to either encourage or discourage those around us. By choosing to speak kindly and positively, we can help create an environment of love and support in our communities. The Bible inspires us to let our words reflect the love of Christ and demonstrate grace and kindness to one another.
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
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
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
Hebrews 10:24
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24
Proverbs 16:24
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” – Proverbs 16:24
Controlling Anger and Conflict
We know that conflict and disagreements are unavoidable. Yet, how we handle our disagreements is crucial. When we let our tongues be ruled by anger, we often say hurtful things that can lead to further strife. The Bible teaches us that controlling our tongues, especially in moments of anger, promotes peace and unity instead of division. Let us aspire to approach conflicts with wisdom and self-control.
Proverbs 14:29
“Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.” – Proverbs 14:29
Ephesians 4:31
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.” – Ephesians 4:31
Ecclesiastes 7:9
“Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.” – Ecclesiastes 7:9
James 1:20
“Because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” – James 1:20
Proverbs 25:28
“Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.” – Proverbs 25:28
Speaking Truthfully
Our commitment to tongue control also extends to speaking truthfully. Honesty builds trust amongst us and honors God. The Bible encourages us to be truthful in our speech and avoid lies or deceit. By speaking the truth in love, we reflect God’s character and create strong, honest relationships.
Ephesians 4:15
“Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” – Ephesians 4:15
Proverbs 12:22
“The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.” – Proverbs 12:22
Colossians 3:9
“Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices.” – Colossians 3:9
Psalms 34:13
“Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.” – Psalms 34:13
Zachariah 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.” – Zachariah 8:16
Guarding Our Hearts and Tongues
Ultimately, what we speak is a reflection of what is in our hearts. As we strive to practice tongue control, we must remember to guard our hearts against negativity and ungodliness. The Bible invites us to fill our hearts with wisdom, love, and truth so that our words can reflect that joy and goodness in our lives. When we nurture our hearts, we cultivate a desire for righteous speech.
Matthew 12:34
“For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” – Matthew 12:34
Psalms 19:14
“May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” – Psalms 19:14
Proverbs 4:23
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23
Psalms 141:3
“Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.” – Psalms 141:3
Proverbs 10:20
“The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little worth.” – Proverbs 10:20
Final Thoughts
In our lives as believers, controlling our tongues is vital for our spiritual growth. We learn that our words carry power and can create an atmosphere of positivity or negativity. From listening carefully to others to speaking truthfully, the Bible guides us to use our tongues thoughtfully. As we strive to follow God’s teachings, we can encourage one another and build stronger relationships. Each moment we pause and reflect on our speech helps us to align our words with God’s love and truth.
Let us encourage one another in this journey toward better tongue control. We are all in this together, working to ensure our conversations are centered around kindness and truth. Remember that our words can heal or harm, so let us choose wisely.
If you would like to explore other enlightening topics, consider reading about the consequences of lying or the duties of a Christian. Your walk in faith matters, and exploring scripture can enhance our understanding.