Gossip

[bluidkiti]

GOSSIP

We all know people who gossip. Gossip is defined as conversations about others that may or may not be true. People who are busy with gossip don’t take time to find out the facts. They are too quick to spread rumors to draw attention to themselves. When we encounter people who want to consistently talk about other people, we need to politely stop them before they start. We need to let them know what God says about telling lies and secrets and that we want no part of that. Gossip can harm all who are involved.

Proverbs 25:18 “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.” (NLT)

Proverbs 25:18 “A man that beareth false witness against his neighbour is a maul, and a sword, and a sharp arrow.” (KJV)

Dear Lord, we know gossip happens. We know there are people who want to be heard and want to talk about others. We pray for the gossips who love spreading rumors. We also pray for those who are receiving the gossip that they will decide not to listen. However, if they do hear gossip, we pray they will not spread it any further. We know gossip can hurt the credibility of others. It can hurt those who tell it. It can hurt those who choose to listen. It can hurt those it is about. Help us to stay clear of gossip today, Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Gossip is not something that should be spread. It should be stopped as quickly as possible.

When someone begins to tell us something they hear that may not be true, we need to let them know it is unwise to spread rumors.

It is possible to refuse to listen to those who want to spread gossip. God can help us.

Proverbs 11:13 “A gossip goes around telling secrets, but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence.” (NLT)

Focus: When someone spreads rumors, we can choose to listen or to turn away.