When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent. The tongue of the righteous is choice silver; the heart of the wicked is of little worth.
Shut Up!
Proverbs 17:14 ESV
The beginning of strife is like letting out water, so quit before the quarrel breaks out.
Proverbs 17:27–28 ESV
Whoever restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding. Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent.
Proverbs 11:12 ESV
Whoever belittles his neighbor lacks sense, but a man of understanding remains silent.
Build Up!
Proverbs 15:4 ESV
A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.
Proverbs 16:23–24 ESV
The heart of the wise makes his speech judicious and adds persuasiveness to his lips. Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.
Acts 11:22–24 ESV
The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 ESV
Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
Speak Up!
Proverbs 31:8–9 ESV
Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.
