As Christians, we know that our words have power – whether for good or bad.
The Bible frequently warns us to be careful with our thoughts and watching what we say.
In today’s world, where social media and texting can make it easy to say things without thinking, it is more important than ever to be mindful of the impact our words can have.
Here are 25 Bible verses about being careful what you say and their meanings.
1. Proverbs 21:23
“Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.” – Proverbs 21:23
We can avoid a lot of problems by simply thinking before we speak.
2. Proverbs 18:21
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” – Proverbs 18:21
Our words have the power to both hurt and heal.
3. James 1:19
“Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.” – James 1:19
We should take the time to listen and understand before we rush to speak.
4. Proverbs 10:19
“When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.” – Proverbs 10:19
It is better to say less and mean it than to say too much and regret it.
5. Ecclesiastes 5:2
“Be not rash with your mouth, nor let your heart be hasty to utter a word before God, for God is in heaven and you are on earth. Therefore let your words be few.” – Ecclesiastes 5:2
We should remember that our words are not just heard by those around us but also by God.
6. Proverbs 15:4
“A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.” – Proverbs 15:4
The way we speak can either bring life or cause harm.
7. Proverbs 12:18
“There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” – Proverbs 12:18
We must choose our words carefully, as they can either wound or heal.
8. Colossians 3:8
“But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.” – Colossians 3:8
We should guard against speaking negatively about others and instead seek to build them up.
9. Matthew 12:36
“I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak.” – Matthew 12:36
We should be mindful that our words have consequences, even if we do not immediately see them.
10. James 1:26
“If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.” – James 1:26
Our words are a reflection of our character, so we should strive to speak wisely and with integrity.
11. Proverbs 16:24
“Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” – Proverbs 16:24
We should aim to speak kindly and with compassion.
12. Matthew 15:18
“But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person.” – Matthew 15:18
Our words reveal what is in our hearts, whether good or bad.
13. Psalm 39:1
“I will guard my ways, that I may not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth with a muzzle, so long as the wicked are in my presence.” – Psalm 39:1
Being careful with our words can help us avoid sin and maintain our integrity.
14. James 3:5
“So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire!” -James 3:5
Our words, even seemingly small ones, can have a significant impact.
15. Proverbs 13:3
“Whoever guards his mouth preserves his life; he who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.” – Proverbs 13:3
Our words can either bring us life or lead to our downfall.
16. Luke 6:45
“The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” -Luke 6:45
We should seek to cultivate a good heart so that our words reflect that goodness.
17. Proverbs 10:32
“The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked, what is perverse.” – Proverbs 10:32
We should strive to speak what is right and good.
18. James 3:2
“For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body.” -James 3:2
Controlling our speech is a sign of maturity and wisdom.
19. Proverbs 17:27
“Whoever restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.” -Proverbs 17:27
Being careful with our words can demonstrate our wisdom and understanding.
20. James 4:11
“Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge.” -James 4:11
We should be mindful not to speak poorly of others, as it can lead to judgment and division.
21. Proverbs 12:25
“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.” – Proverbs 12:25
Our words can bring joy and comfort to those around us.
22. Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” – Philippians 4:8
When we focus on what is good and true, our words are likely to reflect that goodness.
23. Proverbs 10:11
“The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.” – Proverbs 10:11
Our words can either bring life and healing or conceal destructive intentions.
24. Ephesians 4:29
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” – Ephesians 4:29
We should always strive to speak words that build up and bring grace to those around us.
25. Proverbs 18:13
“If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.” – Proverbs 18:13
We should be careful to listen before we speak, so that we can truly understand and respond thoughtfully.
Be careful what you pray for Bible verses
There’s a saying that goes like this: “Be careful what you pray for; you might just get it.”
And if you’re familiar with the Bible, you’ll know that it’s not just a casual phrase.
Several verses discuss the importance of being mindful of what you ask for in your prayers.
One such verse is James 4:3, which says, “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.”
It’s a reminder that our intentions matter just as much as the words we use in our prayers.
Where in the Bible does it say to be careful with your thoughts?
Have you ever heard the saying “be careful what you wish for”?
Well, the same goes for our thoughts. It’s easy to let our minds wander and dwell on negative or harmful thoughts, but the Bible warns us to be cautious with our thoughts.
In Philippians 4:8, it says “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.”
This verse reminds us to focus on positive and uplifting thoughts instead of dwelling on negativity.
Our thoughts have a powerful impact on our emotions and actions, so it’s important to be mindful of what we allow into our minds.
Let us Speak in Ways That Honor God
The Bible is clear that our words have great power and impact. As Christians, we must be mindful of the words we speak, the thoughts we entertain, and the company we keep.
We should seek to cultivate hearts that are pure, wise, and full of love so that our words can bring life, joy, and healing to those around us.
By being careful with our speech and guarding our hearts, we can honor God and be a blessing to others.
