The Bible emphasizes the importance of controlling our words and the impact they have on ourselves and others.
Idle Words
"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)
"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." (Ecclesiastes 5:2)
Negative Words
"The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit." (Proverbs 18:21)
"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)
Profane Words
"Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving." (Ephesians 5:4)
"But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips." (Colossians 3:8)
Bad Jokes
"A fool finds pleasure in wicked schemes, but a person of integrity is appalled by them." (Proverbs 10:23)
"Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place..." (Ephesians 5:4)
Biblical Principles
1. Control Your Tongue: "Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless." (James 1:26)
2. Speak Life-Giving Words: "The tongue has the power of life and death..." (Proverbs 18:21)
3. Avoid Corrupt Communication: "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths..." (Ephesians 4:29)
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
May our words be pleasing to You, and may we use our tongues to build others up.
Grant us wisdom to control our words, and may our speech be filled with life-giving words.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
