In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise. - Proverbs 10:19 (NKJV)

The Bible repeatedly teaches and warns us about the wise use of our words - keep them limited, edifying, truthful and gentle. So much wisdom about our words. Jesus said, Let your yes be yes and your no be no. Matthew 5:37

Non-verbal communication, of course, plays a huge factor, but it's our words that either lift up or tear down - both for others and ourselves. We can get ourselves in trouble (Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity. Proverbs 21:23 [NIV]), tear others down (Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense, but the one who has understanding holds their tongue. Proverbs 11:12 [NIV]), build others up (Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Ephesians 4:29 [NIV]) or edify ourselves (Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. Colossians 4:6 [NIV]).

So, whether your initiating or responding in conversation, let gentleness and humility lead you to edify and build up others according to their needs.