Proverbs 18:8
“The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts.”
I once heard the humorous story of three ministers who were out on the lake fishing. Since they were not having any luck they soon became very bored. To break the monotony one of them suggested that they might feel better if they secretly confessed their greatest sin which would, of course, be held in strict confidence. The first minister confessed that his secret sin was alcohol consumption. The second confessed that he was a secret gambler. The third remained quiet until the first two pressured him to confess. He finally blurted out, “I am a gossip and I can hardly wait to get back to shore!”
In almost every segment of society (probably every segment) there is the problem of gossip… and contrary to the old stereotype, it is not just women either. If you doubt it, just listen in at a men’s morning coffee klatch and you will discover the truth that men gossip too.
I wish that gossip was not to be found in our church circles but, sad to say, that is not the case. Gossips in the church seem to feel they are the protectors of spiritual purity, when in fact they erode the foundation of trust and confidence.
What damage are your words causing? Are you building up the body of Christ by the things you share with others? Are you committed to always give a good report about others? Speak the good openly and pray for the sinful silently. Give no cause for the enemy to use our tongues to do his work.
May God richly bless you as you bless others by your words and actions!
– – – Pastor Cecil