Did you know that the Bible teaches us how to speak in a way that is pleasing to God? That's right! In Ephesians 4:15, it says to tell in love. This means that we should be patient, kind, not jealous, not bragging, not being arrogant, not getting angry quickly, and not remembering when others have done wrong to us. Another verse about love covering up mistakes whenever possible is Proverbs 10:12.
It's also important to speak in control of our emotions. Proverbs 15:1 says that a gentle answer can turn away anger. Proverbs 16:32 reminds us that it's better to be patient than to be someone who can control a city. Proverbs 17:27 warns us that people who talk too much are like a stream that never stops flowing. Ephesians 4:25-27says not to let anger control us or allow the devil to make us angry.
When we speak, we should also try to avoid quarreling. Proverbs 17:14 says stopping a fight before it even starts is better. Proverbs 20:3 warns us that people who like to start arguments are troublemakers. And II Timothy 2:24-25 tells us not to argue, to be kind to everyone, and to teach those who disagree patiently.
We should be sweet, gentle, and gracious when speaking to others. Proverbs 15:1 says that a soft answer can calm someone down. Proverbs 16:21 teaches us that kind words have the power to heal. And Colossians 4:6 reminds us to speak with grace to everyone we meet. But we should also speak with confidence and authority, as Titus 2:15 tells us.
Finally, when someone insults us, we should respond with a blessing. Proverbs 20:22 says not to seek revenge but to trust the Lord to handle it. Romans 12:14 says to bless those who curse us. And I Peter 3:9 says not to return evil for evil but to bless others.
So remember, when we speak, we should speak with love and control over our emotions, without quarreling, with sweetness and confidence, and responding with blessings instead of insults. This is the speaking that is pleasing to God!