Bible verses for children
Words have serious consequences.
Proverbs 18:21
Death and life are in the power of the tongue; those who love it will eat its fruit.
Proverbs 18:21 · World English Bible Classic (WEB)
In simple words
What does this verse mean?
The tongue stands for speech. Words can protect, encourage, deceive or endanger people, so their effects can be very serious. Eating their fruit means experiencing the results of how we speak. This is not a claim that words magically create whatever they describe.
A truthful warning can help someone avoid danger. A cruel rumour can spread harm. Think about the likely effect before passing a message along.
Talk about it
How could your words help protect someone rather than harm them?
A little more to explore
Bible context & readings +
Proverbs 18 contains several sayings about speech and listening. Verse 21 gives a strong summary of their consequences. Its language of life, death and fruit asks us to take speech seriously without teaching superstition about saying the wrong phrase.
Full readings at eBible.org · World English Bible Classic. Read with an adult.A simple prayer +
God, help us use our voices responsibly to protect and encourage life. Amen.
A suggested prayer, written for this guide.