Gossip is a Sin

I feel gossip is a sin not widely discussed but is a widespread problem. No matter where you go it seems you will find someone talking about someone or find yourself talking about someone. The worst place to find gossip is in the church. Christians need to do better about listening more and talking less. The bible says a Gossip goes around telling secrets, but those who are trustworthy can keep confidence in Proverbs.

Gossip Separates the Best of Friends

Do you want to be someone trustworthy? Or, are you one of those people that others know not to trust because they hear you speaking badly of others frequently. It also goes on in Proverbs stating, “A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends”. Don’t be a troublemaker and let gossip cost you valuable friendships.

“A Gossip goes around telling secrets, so don’t hang around with chatterers.” Proverbs 20:19

Be Trustworthy and Honest

The Bible specifically tells us not to hang around such people. Doing so will only lead to chaos and trouble. If you aren’t careful, their constant gossiping will lead you to become the same. We are usually a product of our closest friends. What does your closest circle of friends reflect? The trustworthy and honest nature of Jesus, or the lies and slander of the enemy?

“You must not pass along false rumors. You must not cooperate with evil people by lying on the witness stand.” Exodus 23:1

Let Every Word you Say be Good

We are called not to speak evil against each other. Every word that comes from our mouth is to be good and helpful so that we lift up and encourage others. The verse I’m referencing also refers to using foul language. Everything that comes from our mouths should be to glorify God.

“Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.” Ephesians 4:29

Humble Yourself

We are to be kind and tenderhearted forgiving one another as God has forgiven you. Humble yourself because you, nor myself, are better than the next person. We are arrogant and prideful to assume so. Pray for God to help you be humble, kind, and loving as Jesus was. Jesus never put people down, even the worst of us. Instead, he helped, healed, and delivered them from their sin.

Lend a Helping Hand

Don’t contribute to someone’s downfall. Likely you have made or are fully capable of making the same mistake they have. How would you feel if your darkest secrets were put on broadcast? Would you prefer someone to lend a helping hand or put a knife in your back gossiping and letting others know your shortcomings?

Destroyer of Transformer?

Be more empathetic. Next time you are tempted to tell others secrets think about how you would feel if that were you. We often say or do things without thinking. Think before you speak. The words you say could completely destroy someone’s life. On the contrary, the words you speak could completely transform someone’s life. Do you want to be the destroyer or the transformer?

Be Lead by the Spirit, Not the Flesh

What can you do instead of gossiping? You can encourage, lift them up, help, and give them love maybe they’ve never felt. As you’ve heard before, hurting people hurt people. Consider the pain someone may be in before you hurt them worse. You have full control over what you say and do. Be lead by the spirit, not the flesh.

Reflection:
How do you do with gossip? Do you speak negatively of others or do you support others when they are down? I encourage you to start thinking more positively. Pray before you speak. Gossiping can be a vicious cycle that sucks you in. Don’t give up and get discouraged. It takes time to break cycles. Replace the negative with the positive.
Don’t try to be someone’s savior. Instead, lead them to the Savior.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, please help me to be mindful of not only the words I speak, but the thoughts I think. Help me to keep my heart and mind pure. Renewing myself daily to be more Christlike. When I am confronted with Gossip give me the courage to politely change the conversation or walk away. When I am tempted to Gossip, give me the conviction and strength to control my tongue. Lord, help me to be like you in every way. Lead me by your spirit and crucify my flesh. 

Amen