A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret.
Proverbs 11:13
YES! He cares because He knows that gossip is destructive. Friendships have been destroyed because of gossip. Reputations have been damaged because of gossip.
The dictionary defines it this way: Gossip (noun): idle talk or rumor, especially about the personal or private affairs of others.
So, what is attractive about gossip?
Sometimes knowing the private business of others takes the focus away from us and our own problems. Other times, it gives us the opportunity to pass judgment. There is such danger in gossip.
Is it possible that the danger is attractive to us in some way? Or are we so bored that we think it is exciting to hear about what is going on with others?
So how do we avoid gossip?
- First, ask the Holy Spirit to alert you to slander/gossip and then make a choice not to engage.
- Second, if the topic of conversation turns to a discussion of a particular person who is not present, don’t engage and physically walk away if necessary.
- If you are a victim of gossip, don’t repay an evil act with an evil act of your own no matter how tempting that might be.
Scriptures to meditate on through the week
Sunday
Then keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies! Psalm 34:13(NLT)
Monday
Telling lies about others is as harmful as hitting them with an ax, wounding them with a sword, or shooting them with a sharp arrow. Proverbs 25:18(NLT)
Tuesday
Wrongdoers eagerly listen to gossip; liars pay close attention to slander. Proverbs 17:4(NLT)
Wednesday
Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord. Romans 12:19(NLT)
Thursday
Rumors are dainty morsels that sink deep into one’s heart. Proverbs 18:8(NLT)
Friday
A gossip goes around telling secrets, so don’t hang around with chatterers. Proverbs 20:19(NLT)
Saturday
Fire goes out without wood, and quarrels disappear when gossip stops. Proverbs 26:20(NLT)
Prayer Points
Pray: Dear Lord, please alert me to gossip. Make me aware of conversations that include slander or gossip. Give me strength to walk away or to speak up when You want me to!
Action Steps
Follow God’s lead. When He makes you aware that a conversation contains gossip, remove yourself from the discussion.
Further Study
Look up and study every scripture that mentions gossip or slander. Notice what the Bibles says about the outcome from both.
