What is appropriate speech?

1 Samuel 3:19As Samuel grew up, the Lord was with him, and everything Samuel said proved to be reliable.

Psalm 19:14May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.

Proverbs 10:19Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.

Proverbs 11:9With their words, the godless destroy their friends, but knowledge will rescue the righteous.

Proverbs 12:18Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.

Proverbs 15:23Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!

Proverbs 16:23From a wise mind comes wise speech; the words of the wise are persuasive.

Proverbs 20:15Wise words are more valuable than much gold and many rubies.

Proverbs 17:27A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered.

Proverbs 31:26When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness.

Ecclesiastes 9:17Better to hear the quiet words of a wise person than the shouts of a foolish king.

1 Peter 3:9Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will grant you his blessing.

Appropriate speech is rich in quality, sometimes scarce in quantity, and timely in delivery. By choosing appropriate words, even in response to the inappropriate words of another, we can save friendships, bring healing, and give and receive blessings.