Today we will talk about Bible Verses About Keeping Things To Yourself. Many Christians may wonder why it’s important to learn about keeping things to ourselves or why we might need to hold back some thoughts and feelings. The Bible gives us beautiful guidance in these areas, helping us grasp the beauty of silence, the wisdom of discretion, and the power of self-control. It’s not always easy to practice this, especially in our fast-paced world filled with constant chatter. Let’s take a moment to meditate and reflect on God’s Word together as we explore these verses, aiming to grow closer to our faith and understand the value of keeping things to ourselves when necessary.
Bible Verses About Keeping Things To Yourself
The Importance of Discretion
In our journey of faith, we often find ourselves in situations where discretion becomes vital. The Bible reminds us that holding back certain words or actions can show wisdom. When we choose to keep some thoughts and feelings private, we exhibit a level of maturity and understanding that reflects our faith. We understand that not everyone needs to know every detail of our lives. It’s okay to guard our hearts and minds, allowing God to guide our conversations and decisions. Discretion is a sign of strength and confidence in our relationship with God.
Proverbs 11:13
“A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.” – Proverbs 11:13
Proverbs 21:23
“Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.” – Proverbs 21:23
Proverbs 25:11
“Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a ruling rightly given.” – Proverbs 25:11
Proverbs 17:27
“The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.” – Proverbs 17:27
Ecclesiastes 3:7
“A time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak.” – Ecclesiastes 3:7
Guarding Our Hearts
As we delve deeper into the Bible, we come across reminders about guarding our hearts. Our hearts hold our emotions, desires, and vulnerabilities, and the Bible wisely encourages us to protect them. Keeping some of our thoughts to ourselves allows us to reflect and ensure our hearts align with God’s will. This practice helps us build discernment, enabling us to share wisely and with the right people. By guarding our hearts, we create a healthy space for growth and healing in our relationship with God and others.
Proverbs 4:23
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23
Philippians 4:7
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:7
Psalms 19:14
“May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” – Psalms 19:14
Psalms 39:1
“I said, ‘I will watch my ways and keep my tongue from sin; I will put a muzzle on my mouth as long as the wicked are in my presence.'” – Psalms 39:1
Psalms 141:3
“Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.” – Psalms 141:3
The Practice of Silence
Sometimes, silence truly speaks louder than words, especially when we encounter challenging situations. The Bible encourages us to embrace the power of silence, bringing serenity to our hearts. By keeping things to ourselves during tense moments, we allow room for prayer, reflection, and better responses that are rooted in love and understanding. Practicing silence is not weakness; rather, it’s an active choice to rely on God’s guidance and strength, embodying patience and grace.
Proverbs 17:28
“Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.” – Proverbs 17:28
Isaiah 30:15
“This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: ‘In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it.'” – Isaiah 30:15
Ecclesiastes 5:2
“Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.” – Ecclesiastes 5:2
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
Proverbs 10:19
“Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.” – Proverbs 10:19
The Power of Self-Control
Self-control is an essential aspect of our spiritual growth. The Bible teaches us that having the ability to withhold our thoughts and feelings, to choose when to speak and when to stay silent, reflects our faith journey. When we practice self-control, we can resist the temptation to share every thought that comes to mind, thus creating a thoughtful and respectful environment for ourselves and those around us. It’s a beautiful expression of the love we have for the Lord and for one another.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23
1 Corinthians 10:13
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.” – 1 Corinthians 10:13
Proverbs 25:28
“Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.” – Proverbs 25:28
Proverbs 12:16
“Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult.” – Proverbs 12:16
Titus 2:11-12
“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives.” – Titus 2:11-12
Bearing One Another’s Burdens
The Bible also instructs us to share our burdens with one another, yet we should do this with wisdom and discernment. Keeping some things to ourselves allows us to maintain boundaries and protects our hearts and minds. We should always weigh the decision of what to share and with whom, ensuring they’re trustworthy and respectful. This practice helps us foster deeper connections while also recognizing that some things are best shared only with God or in private prayer.
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
1 Thessalonians 5:14
“And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:14
Psalms 55:22
“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.” – Psalms 55:22
James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16
Romans 12:15
“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” – Romans 12:15
The Value of Listening
Listening is an incredible gift we can offer to one another. When we choose to keep some things to ourselves, we create space for others to share their thoughts and feelings. The Bible teaches us the importance of being good listeners. When we practice active listening, we show love and respect to others, allowing them to express themselves fully. It’s a powerful way of connecting with one another and knowing that we’re there for our friends and family in their moments of need.
Proverbs 18:13
“To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.” – Proverbs 18:13
Proverbs 1:5
“Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.” – Proverbs 1:5
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
Psalms 46:10
“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” – Psalms 46:10
Proverbs 20:12
“Ears that hear and eyes that see—the Lord has made them both.” – Proverbs 20:12
Trusting in God
Lastly, trusting in God is at the core of keeping things to ourselves. When we find ourselves overwhelmed, we can take comfort in knowing that we can pour out our hearts in prayer to Him. Rather than sharing every detail of our struggles, we can turn to God first, allowing Him to guide us. This reliance on God not only brings peace to our minds but also strengthens our faith as we trust Him with our burdens, knowing He hears us.
1 Peter 5:7
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Psalm 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.” – Psalm 37:5
Isaiah 26:3
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” – Isaiah 26:3
Reflecting on Ourselves
In keeping things to ourselves, we can also take time for self-reflection. The Bible encourages us to examine our actions and thoughts consistently. By seeking God’s guidance through introspection, we not only find clarity in our feelings but also answer the call to grow spiritually. As we reflect on our faith journey, we can discover areas that might need change, improvement, and growth, allowing us to surrender ourselves to God.
2 Corinthians 13:5
“Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you? Unless indeed you fail to meet the test!” – 2 Corinthians 13:5
Psalm 139:23-24
“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” – Psalm 139:23-24
Lamentations 3:40
“Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord.” – Lamentations 3:40
Matthew 7:3
“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” – Matthew 7:3
Psalms 26:2
“Test me, Lord, and try me, examine my heart and my mind.” – Psalms 26:2
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up this exploration of Bible Verses About Keeping Things To Yourself, I am reminded of the wisdom inherent in God’s word. Each verse offers profound insights into how we can navigate our thoughts and conversations with care and understanding. By learning to practice discretion, guard our hearts, and embrace silence, we grow in self-control and trust in God. We also acknowledge the value of listening and reflecting on ourselves.
In our daily lives, let’s take to heart these lessons and strive to embody the wisdom of keeping some things to ourselves while allowing space for connection, growth, and deeper relationships. May we rely on God’s guidance and strength as we journey together in faith.
I encourage you to meditate on these verses, applying their wisdom, and finding peace in the beautiful practice of keeping things to ourselves when needed. Let’s trust in God and embrace the beauty of silence together.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4