There is an old saying that eyes are the window to the soul. Actually words are also the window to the soul. We can perceive one's inner world through his daily words. In addition, language is the tool of communication.
The Bible says, "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)"
Christians should often praise the Lord and bad words dishonor God. Therefore, it's essential to control our tongues in daily life.
These ten Bible passages teach us what should be said and what should not.
What should be said:
Isaiah 50:4 The Sovereign Lord has given me a well-instructed tongue,
to know the word that sustains the weary.
He wakens me morning by morning,
wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed.Ephesians 4:25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.
Colossians 4:6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Matthew 5:37 All you need to say is simply 'Yes' or 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.
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.
What shouldn't be said:
1 Peter 3:9-11 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. For,
"Whoever would love life
and see good days
must keep their tongue from evil
and their lips from deceitful speech.
They must turn from evil and do good;
they must seek peace and pursue it.Matthew 12:36-37 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.
Proverbs 12:22 The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.
Ephesians 5:4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.
Psalm 12:3 May the Lord silence all flattering lips and every boastful tongue.
- Translated by Karen Luo
