Bible Verses About Not Cursing | Kind Words [2025]

Words are powerful. They can build up or tear down, heal or hurt, bless or curse. For believers seeking to live in alignment with biblical teachings, understanding what the Bible says about cursing and controlling speech is essential.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore Bible verses about not cursing, uncover what Scripture teaches about the power of words, and provide practical wisdom on cultivating godly speech. Whether you’re struggling with profanity, anger, or just want to honor God with your words, this article will equip you with biblical insights and encouragement.

What Does the Bible Mean by “Cursing”?

Before diving into specific verses, it’s important to clarify what “cursing” means in the biblical context. The term can have different nuances:

• Taking God’s name in vain (Exodus 20:7)

• Speaking ill or wishing harm on others

• Using profane or obscene language

• Swearing or making oaths carelessly

In all cases, cursing represents speech that dishonors God or harms others. The Bible consistently warns against careless or harmful speech, highlighting the spiritual consequences of misusing words.

Read Also: Bible Verses About Cannabis

Why Is Avoiding Cursing Important According to Scripture?

• Speech Reflects the Heart: Jesus taught that the mouth speaks what fills the heart (Matthew 12:34). If our words are harsh or profane, it reveals a troubled heart.

• Words Have Power: Proverbs 18:21 says life and death are in the power of the tongue. Words can impact others profoundly.

• God’s Holiness Demands Pure Speech: Believers are called to be holy (1 Peter 1:16), and this extends to how we use our words.

• Speech Can Build or Destroy: Ephesians 4:29 urges Christians to only speak what builds others up.

Top Bible Verses About Not Cursing

Let’s explore some key Scriptures that address cursing directly or indirectly.

1. Exodus 20:7 (The Third Commandment)

“You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain.”

This command warns against misusing God’s name through careless or disrespectful speech.

2. James 3:9-10

“With it [the tongue] we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing.”

James highlights the inconsistency and danger of using our speech for both good and harm.

3. Ephesians 4:29

“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”

Paul exhorts believers to use speech that encourages and benefits others.

4. Colossians 3:8

“But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.”

Believers are urged to remove all forms of harmful speech from their lives.

5. Matthew 5:22

“But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council…”

Jesus teaches that angry and insulting speech has spiritual consequences.

6. Proverbs 10:31-32

“The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but the perverse tongue will be cut off. The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable…”

This contrasts godly speech with harmful words.

7. Psalm 34:13

“Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit.”

A clear command to guard our words carefully.

Biblical Teachings That Encourage Positive Speech

Avoiding cursing isn’t just about what not to say — it’s also about what we should say.

• Proverbs 15:1: “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

• Proverbs 16:24: “Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.”

• Philippians 4:8: “Whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely… think about these things.”

• Romans 12:14: “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.”

These verses inspire us to choose speech that blesses and uplifts.

Biblical Examples of Cursing and Its Consequences

The Bible doesn’t just give commands; it shows real-life examples.

• Cain’s anger leading to murder (Genesis 4) was preceded by angry and harmful words.

• King David prayed for forgiveness for his sinful words and actions (Psalm 51).

• Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount elevated the standard for speech, teaching to avoid insults and anger altogether (Matthew 5).

These narratives reveal the serious impact of our words.

How to Replace Cursing With Biblical Encouragement

Changing speech patterns takes intention and spiritual growth.

• Practice Self-Control: Proverbs 25:28 likens a person without self-control to a broken city.

• Meditate on Scripture: Regularly memorize and meditate on verses about speech.

• Use Prayer: Ask God for help to control your tongue (Psalm 141:3).

• Speak Positive Affirmations: Replace curse words with blessings and gratitude.

The Role of the Holy Spirit in Controlling Speech

Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruits of the Spirit, including self-control. Walking in the Spirit helps believers overcome sinful speech habits and cultivate godly communication.

How Does the Bible Address Swearing Oaths and Taking God’s Name in Vain?

Swearing oaths was common in biblical times but was meant to be sincere and serious (Matthew 5:33-37). Taking God’s name in vain is a form of cursing that dishonors God’s holiness.

Cursing in the Old Testament vs. New Testament

The Old Testament laws explicitly forbid cursing, especially against God and others. Jesus in the New Testament deepens this teaching, focusing on the heart’s intentions and the spirit behind words.

Biblical Guidance for Parents on Teaching Children About Speech

Teaching children kindness in speech is vital.

• Use verses like Proverbs 15:1 to explain gentle answers.

• Encourage children to memorize Psalm 34:13 to guard their tongues.

• Model respectful and loving speech daily.

Common Misconceptions About Bible Verses on Cursing

• Misconception: Some think “curse” means any strong language — but biblical cursing is specific to profaning God’s name or wishing harm.

• Clarification: Not all use of the word “curse” in the Bible means profanity. Some instances involve pronouncing judgment or expressing frustration under divine authority.

Biblical Prayers and Confession for Those Struggling With Cursing

If you struggle with cursing:

• Confess your speech to God honestly (1 John 1:9).

• Use prayers like Psalm 19:14: “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight.”

• Seek accountability from trusted believers.

How to Forgive Others Who Curse You According to the Bible

• Forgiveness is commanded, even when hurt by words (Matthew 6:14-15).

• Respond with grace and avoid retaliatory cursing (Romans 12:17-21).

Psychological and Spiritual Benefits of Avoiding Cursing

• Improves mental health: Positive speech promotes peace and reduces stress.

• Strengthens faith: Aligning speech with Scripture deepens intimacy with God.

• Enhances relationships: Kind words build trust and community.

How Churches and Christian Communities Address Cursing

• Many churches teach sermons on pure speech and accountability groups encourage confession and improvement.

• Some churches offer workshops or classes on Christian communication skills.

Bible Verses About Not Cursing FAQs

Q: What Does the Bible Say About Using Profanity?

The Bible teaches to avoid corrupt or obscene speech and to honor God with our words (Ephesians 4:29, Colossians 3:8). Using profanity is inconsistent with biblical holiness.

Q: Is Saying “God” in Anger Considered Cursing?

Yes, taking God’s name in vain (using it disrespectfully or carelessly) is forbidden (Exodus 20:7).

Q: Can Christians Use Swear Words in Certain Situations?

The Bible encourages Christians to avoid all corrupt speech and use words that build up (Ephesians 4:29). There is no biblical allowance for swearing.

Q: How Can I Stop Myself From Cursing?

Pray for self-control, meditate on Scripture, replace harmful words with positive speech, and seek accountability.

Q: What Are Some Bible Verses to Help Me Speak Kindly?

Proverbs 15:1, Ephesians 4:29, Colossians 4:6, and Philippians 4:8 are great verses to memorize.

Q: Does the Bible Teach That Words Have Power?

Yes, Proverbs 18:21 highlights that life and death are in the power of the tongue.

Q: How Can I Pray for Help to Control My Speech?

Pray verses like Psalm 141:3: “Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.”

Q: What Does the Bible Say About Taking God’s Name in Vain?

It is a serious offense that violates the Third Commandment and brings judgment (Exodus 20:7).

Conclusion

The Bible clearly teaches that words matter deeply. Avoiding cursing is not merely about refraining from profanity but about cultivating a heart and tongue that honor God and bless others. By embracing these biblical principles and relying on the Holy Spirit, believers can transform their speech into a powerful force for good — uplifting, encouraging, and reflecting God’s love.