The Power of the Tongue According to the Bible

In this guide, we will examine the Bible's message on the power of words to build or destroy.

Introduction

We speak thousands of words every day.

Others are soon forgotten.

Others transform people's lives forever.

Saying a nice word to somebody who is ready to quit.

A bad word can leave a wound that can be felt for years and years.

Our words have great power throughout the Bible. They reflect our heart condition, impact our relationships, and affect our interactions with God and people.

Our words impact others, whether delivered verbally in person, via a message or social media.

Scripture teaches Christians to use their tongues for the purposes of truth, grace, and life—not destruction.

Why is it that the Bible so highly values words?

There are things about us that sets us aside from the animals which is the ability to communicate in language.

With words we can:

* Teach.

* Encourage.

* Worship.

* Pray.

* Comfort.

* Correct.

* Inspire.

* Share the Gospel.

However, the very same words can also:

* Lie.

* Gossip.

* Slander.

* Manipulate.

* Discourage.

* Divide.

* Destroy relationships.

Words are so powerful that God has spoken about them many times.

Life and Death are in the hands of the tongue.

The Bible contains one of the most memorable quotes that relate to speech:

The tongue is the key to death and life and those who favor it shall eat the fruit of it. (Proverbs 18:21, KJV)

Solomon was not claiming that words man-made have magic.

Instead, he instructs his students in the reality of the consequences of words.

They may either heal or hurt.

Hope or despair.

Truth or deception.

Our relationships, families, churches and communities are set on a trajectory by our words.

Jesus Connected Words to the Heart

Jesus taught:

From the abundance of the heart will come forth the mouth. (Matthew 12:34)

Our words tell us what our hearts are doing.

Grateful hearts speak kindly.

A love that is fueled by anger is bitter.

The first step in a change of speech is to let God change our hearts.

The Small But Strong Tongue of James.

Of all the teachings, James is the clearest on the tongue.

He compares it to:

A Horse's Bit

A little bit is the power to control a big horse.

Similarly, a little tongue can lead a whole life.

A Ship's Rudder

A big boat is steered with a tiny rudder.

Though small, it determines the ship's direction.

Similarly, our words shape our life and the life of others in this world.

The garden fire has started before you know it

James warns:

“Witness the power of a little fire! (James 3:5)

One careless sentence.

One rumor.

One angry comment.

One false accusation.

May cause very serious harm.

A few thoughtless words were the source of many ruined friendships and divided families.

The tongue has the power to do good

God didn't make speech just to prevent damage.

He gave it for a purpose that is good.

As believers we are called to use our words to:

* Encourage the discouraged.

* Teach God's truth.

Offer support to those who are grieving.

* Pray for others.

* Express gratitude.

* Share the Gospel.

* Build unity.

* Worship God.

When given to God words turn into instruments of grace.

Words That Please God

Paul instructed believers:

Do not let any corrupt word come out of you; but that which is good to the use of edifying...(Ephesians 4:29)

Before speaking, ask:

* Is it true?

* Is it loving?

* Is it necessary?

* Is it helpful?

Will it glorify God?

These are straightforward questions that can lead to many regrets.

The Sin of Gossip

The Bible has a lot to say about gossip.

Gossip damages trust.

It destroys reputations.

It spreads division.

In the modern world, the rumour mill doesn't just circulate by the word of mouth.

It also spreads via:

* Social media.

* Group chats.

* Comments.

* Screenshots.

* Rumors shared online.

Fans of Christ should be recognized for their safeguarding of people instead of their unnecessary exposure.

Speaking the Truth in Love

Truth matters.

However, when it comes to the truth, it must always go hand in hand with love.

Paul writes:

…speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15)

When truth is not accompanied by love it becomes hard.

Trueline Love is compromise.

God has called believers to hold both.

Angry words are dangerous.Angry words can be dangerous.

It's easy to say and regret things when angry.

James reminds believers:

Let every man be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath. (James 1:19)

Often, an untimely reaction leads to unnecessary conflict.

Sometimes it's better to be silent than to have the right comeback.

Blessing Instead of Cursing

James notices something that is very difficult.

People have many similar tendencies when they speak with the same language, such as:

Praise God on the Lord's day.

Criticize somebody else on Monday.

According to him, this shouldn't be.

The heart of a man or woman that has been transformed by Christ should bring forth speech that builds up instead of tear down.

Jesus' Example

During Jesus' ministry, He showed perfect control of his mouth.

He:

* Comforted the broken.

* Corrected the proud.

* Forgave sinners.

* Encouraged the weak.

Spoke nothing but kind words.

Though Jesus suffered on the cross, he prayed:

Forgive them, for they know not what they do. ( Luke 23:34)

His words were both true and what could have been called extraordinary grace.

Social Media and the Tongue

James was writing long before the internet, but his teaching is relevant to the digital communication today.

Every:

* Tweet

* Facebook post

* Instagram caption

* WhatsApp message

* YouTube comment

is a continuation of speech.

Christians should ask:

Would these words be a glory to Christ?

Do I believe this face-to-face?

Would these words motivate or demoralize a person?

Digital witness is as important as verbal witness.

“Tongue Control” is a practical discussion of the ways in which we can control the tongue.

Pray Before Speaking

Seek wisdom from God for tough conversations.

Instead of talking, listen more.Listen more than talk.

The wise speaker is a good listener.

Rather than reacting, think before responding.

Not all criticism needs to be responded to immediately.

Choose Encouragement

Seek opportunities to build others up each day.

Fill Your Heart with God's Word

Words come from the heart and putting scripture in the heart necessarily affects the words that come out of the mouth.

Five lessons about the power of the tongue.

1. Words Reveal the Heart

What goes in our minds and hearts, comes out in our speech.

2.Lasting Consequences of Words.

One sentence can change someone's life for many years.

3. Self Control is Spiritual Maturity

To speak the right word at the right time and to not say the wrong thing at the wrong time is a sign of wisdom.

4. God Wants Our Speech to Bring Life

Believers are called to encourage, teach, console and declare truth.

5. Every Word Matters

Jesus said, "Everyone who speaks will be held accountable for everything he said.

Our words ought to be that of Christ.

Common Misunderstandings

Words Don't Mean Things If I Amn't Meanin' Them.

Words, even words of little import, can be very wounding.

Motive is important, but so are the results.

The catchphrase of the day is "Honesty Means Saying What I Think.

Honesty in the Bible is always accompanied by love, wisdom and self-control.

Not all ideas have to be voiced.

“Words to Watch (Only Public Speakers Need to Watch).”

Each believer has an impact on others through everyday conversations, texting, emailing and social media posts.

The Bible's message is for all people.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the Bible use fire as a figure of speech for the tongue?

Just as a small spark can start a big fire, so can a small word have very big consequences, writes James.

What can I do if God isn't helping me control my speech?

Yes.

The Holy Spirit-indwells the believer and brings about self-control, wisdom and love in conversation.

If I hurt someone with my words, what should I do?

Acknowledge the error to God, truly apologize to the person you have wronged, and try to reconcile where you can.

It is a powerful testimony to say we are humble.

What do I need to do with my words that would glorify God?

Be honest, support others, don't engage in gossip, pray diligently, share the gospel, and let your talk be filled with the love and wisdom of Jesus Christ.

Reflection

The most powerful gift that God has given to us is our words.

All discussion is a chance.

All messages are influential.

Each sentence can be used positively or negatively.

Through His words, Jesus brought hope, healing, forgiveness and truth.

We are to do the same as His followers.

May our words be words of grace, given in the transformation of our hearts, so that anyone who hears them may not be directed to us, but to Jesus Christ.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the word. Forgive me when I have spoken or acted out of turn or hurtfully. Let Your truth fill my heart, so I can give others words of encouragement, peace and hope. Teach me to talk wisely, kindly, and in love, as Jesus is wise, kind, and loving when he speaks.

In Jesus' name, Amen.