Ten Times You Should Stay Quiet According to the Holy Bible
- Isabella Boston
- Sep 25
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 27
Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the doors of my lips. - Psalm 141:3
Here are ten times you should stay quiet, according to the Holy Bible
In the Heat of Anger
"Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires." - James 1:19-20. God's Holy Word warns us to control our anger. When we are angry, we are more likely to say and do things that we will regret later. When you feel your emotions getting the best of you, stop what you are doing, walk away, and take several deep breaths. Remember, we are ambassadors of Jesus Christ, and we are to represent both the Father and the Son in faith and righteousness at all times.
If You Have to Yell and Use Harsh Words
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." - Proverbs 15:1.
If Your Words Will Hurt or Offend a Weaker Person
"The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." - Proverbs 12:8. Also, "We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves." - Romans 15:1. Your words can either build someone up or tear them down. Your words could deeply wound someone who is already struggling with something or who has low self-esteem. At the same time, your words could give someone hope.
To Avoid Gossip
"A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much." - Proverbs 20:19. The Holy Bible has made it clear through countless verses that we are to avoid gossip, but..." to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody." - 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12.
When Tempted to Lie
"The Lord detests lying lips, but He delights in people who are trustworthy." - Proverbs 12:22. The Word of God states that we are not to lie, but to be honest in all our ways.
When Someone Else is Speaking
"To answer before listening -- that is folly and shame." - Proverbs 18:13. It's not only rude to interrupt someone when they are speaking, but the Holy Bible tells us it is also foolish and brings us shame. When we listen before we speak, it allows us to fully understand the other person's perspective, needs, and concerns. This can help us to have more effective communication, stronger relationships, and a better ability to respond thoughtfully. It shows respect for ourselves and others.
If Your Words Will Ruin a Reputation or Cause Harm
"A false witness will perish, but a careful listener will testify successfully." - Proverbs 21:28. Bearing false witness is not only considered unethical and morally wrong, but it is also a serious sin and breaks the Ninth Commandment: "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor." - Exodus 20:16. Lying against someone in any situation could cause them serious harm and ruin their reputation for life. And as disciples of Jesus Christ, we should always seek to speak with honesty and with truth. Just as our Savior Jesus Christ did.
When Tempted to Joke About Sin
"Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving." - Ephesians 5:4. Since studying the Holy Word of God, I no longer watch stand-up comedy, certain movies, or anything else that might offend my Father in Heaven. Likewise, I avoid people who use God's name in vain or who like to joke about God the Father, Jesus Christ, His Son, or sin.
To Avoid Ungodly Conversations
"Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly." - 2 Timothy 2:16. I think this verse speaks for itself. As believers in God through Christ Jesus, the Holy Bible tells us to resist evil and to live our faith righteously. We should never participate in ungodly chatter or conversations, but we should rather let our lips glorify God.
When the Matter is None of Your Business
As we have already established in 1 Thessalonians 4:11, we should live quiet lives and mind our business, but there are times when we should speak up if it will save an innocent life, defend the rights of the poor and needy, or if we are speaking up for those who cannot speak up for themselves (Ecclesiastes 3:7, Proverbs 31:9).
And there you have it: Ten Times You Should Stay Quiet According to the Bible. Remember, "If you don't have anything nice to say, then say nothing at all."
