Gossip
1. Fights are often fueled by gossip.
Without wood a fire goes out; without a gossip a quarrel dies down.” – Proverbs 26:20
Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends. – Proverbs 17:9
There is nothing beneficial of you spreading information that you were told in confidence. Often the information is not entirely true and single-sided – not knowing both sides of the story. Gossip can worsen fights and disagreement (which are a natural part of any relationship) can break relationships completely. We, as Christians, are called to bring peace into situations and not add to the hurt and pain. Rather keep quiet, than be tempted to gossip.
If you have been gossiped about, it also does not give you the right to spread gossip about the person who gossiped about you. The fight will end much better and sooner if you are merciful and don’t gossip as a form of revenge. Even if you do not see a way of moving forwards in the relationship, it is not God honoring to gossip about the person. We should pursue peace in all relationships and live in peace with everyone. It is the loving thing to do.
It is also important to remember that there is a difference between gossiping and sharing your struggles with someone so that they can give you good and Godly council, pray with you and guide you. The aim of the conversation should be to find solutions and healing not that of revenge. Make sure you share confidential information with a person you trust and does not gossip.
2. Spreading lies is more harmful and devastating than we realize.
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
The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts. – Proverbs 18:8
Spreading or telling lies about someone is not true is extremely hurtful. It can cause a person a lot of pain – more than we realize. It can do so much damage to people that can have a lasting effect. Sometimes we think we are telling the truth, but because the information has passed through so many different people’s mouths, it is no longer the truth. Sometimes things get exaggerated and blown completely out of proportion. The wise thing to do is to remain silent or try and understand the entire truth and all the sides of the story.
3. If someone is gossiping about someone, chances are they will gossip about you too.
He who goes about as a slanderer reveals secrets, Therefore do not associate with a gossip.- Proverbs 20:19
This has been and will always be true. If someone is gossiping to you about someone there is a good chance, they will gossip about you too if the opportunity arises. It is not wise to share confidential information with someone who is known to gossip. In a similar way, if you are always gossiping, people cannot trust you with confidential information and council. Be wise and keep information that is confidential, confidential.
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