The power of the tongue
The Bible, particularly in the book of James, emphasises the tongue’s power.
The tongue has a powerful impact.
James 3:5-6(NLT) In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself.
Proverbs 18:21(NKJV) Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.
Proverbs 15:4(NIV) The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.
Ephesians 4:29(NIV) 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.
Matthew 12:36-37(NIV) But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”
Psalm 34:13(NIV) keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.
These verses, along with many others in the Bible, remind us of the profound influence of the tongue and the importance of guarding our speech.
Words can cause a lot of harm. The Bible is very clear about the dangers and potential harm associated with uncontrolled or malicious speech:
James 3:7-8(NLT) People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison.
Proverbs 21:23(NLT) Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.
Psalm 52:2-4(NLT) All day long you plot destruction. Your tongue cuts like a sharp razor; you’re an expert at telling lies. You love evil more than good and lies more than truth. Interlude You love to destroy others with your words, you liar!
Proverbs 26:28(NLT) A lying tongue hates its victims, and flattering words cause ruin.
Proverbs 12:18(NLT) Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.
Words can bless and curse. It’s strange to use our mouth to both praise and insult. It’s like expecting a water fountain to give out both fresh and brackish water.
James 3:9-12(NLT) Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! Does a spring of water bubble out with both fresh water and bitter water? Does a fig tree produce olives, or a grapevine produce figs? No, and you can’t draw fresh water from a salty spring.
Proverbs 10:19(NLT) Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.
Wisdom is key. To speak well, we need wisdom. True wisdom helps us say things that are kind, fair, and good.
Proverbs 10:31-32(NLT) The mouth of the godly person gives wise advice, but the tongue that deceives will be cut off. The lips of the godly speak helpful words, but the mouth of the wicked speaks perverse words.
Proverbs 15:2(NLT) The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing, but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness.
Proverbs 16:23(NLT) From a wise mind comes wise speech; the words of the wise are persuasive.
Colossians 4:5-6(NLT) Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.
I conclude with “If you do not have control over your mouth, you will not have control over your future.” -Germany Kent