How many sins are not connected to speech? Foul language, lying, mocking, hating, committing injustice, committing adultery, false testimony, corruption… On the other hand, remaining silent often does no harm.
For this reason, Solomon often praises silence as a fruit of wisdom (e.g., Proverbs 17:27–28). James agrees that everyone must be quick to listen but slow to speak (James 1:19). Even the Greek philosopher Pythagoras said, “In other schools people learn how to speak, in my school they learn how to listen and be silent.”
But the strongest warning of all comes from our Lord Jesus: “I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:36–37).
19 When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.