What the Bible Teaches Us About Our Words and Our Hearts
The Bible has a lot to say about the way we talk and treat others. It often communicates these teachings in pretty clear terms. At the heart of it is a simple but powerful message. Our words matter. We are called to speak with love, compassion, and forgiveness towards everyone. This includes not just our friends or people who are easy to get along with.
Why Our Words Matter
The Bible teaches that the things we say have real effects—on ourselves and on others. Words can build people up or tear them down. They can heal or harm. That’s why there is so much emphasis on watching what we say. We must also be aware of how and why we say it.
Loving Others Is Non-Negotiable
· 1 John 4:20 puts it bluntly. You can’t say you love God. You can’t then turn around and hate someone else. If we claim to love God but can’t show love to the people around us, we’re fooling ourselves. Real love for God shows up in the way we treat others.
· Matthew 22:37-40 sums up the most important commandments. Love God with all your heart. Love your neighbor as yourself. Everything else flows from these two commands.
· Leviticus 19:17 tells us not to hold hatred in our hearts against our neighbor. Hating people—even if we never say a word—goes against what God wants for us.
· Matthew 5:43-48 takes it even further. We’re called to love even our enemies. We should pray for people who treat us badly. It’s a radical love, the kind that can actually change hearts, including our own.
The Dangers of Anger and Hurtful Speech
· Matthew 5:21-22 warns that anger and insults can be as damaging as violence. It’s not just our actions, but our attitudes and words that matter.
· Proverbs 10:18 says that hiding hatred is like lying, and talking badly about others is foolish. So, honesty and kindness in speech are key.
· Ephesians 4:31 urges us to let go of bitterness, anger, and harsh words. Harboring these feelings or expressing them unchecked only leads to more hurt.
Speak to Build, Not Break
· Ephesians 4:29 encourages us to use our words to help others. We should build each other up, not tear people down. If what we’re about to say isn’t helpful or kind, it’s better not to say it.
· Colossians 4:6 reminds us to speak with grace—words that are pleasant, interesting, and full of understanding. This doesn’t mean we can never disagree or have tough conversations. Even then, our approach should be gentle and respectful.
· Proverbs 10:12 points out that hatred only creates more conflict, but love covers up mistakes and brings healing.
Forgive and Live in Peace
· Romans 12:18 encourages us to live in peace with everyone, as much as it depends on us. We can’t control what others do, but we can choose our own words and reactions.
Putting It All Together
At the end of the day, the Bible’s teachings about speech are practical: Watch your words. Speak kindly. Don’t let anger take over. Don’t hold grudges. Show love—even to people who are hard to love. Speak in ways that lift people up.
It’s not always easy, but every word is a chance to bring more love, compassion, and forgiveness into the world. And that’s something anyone can strive for, no matter where you’re coming from.
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