How Do you Respond to gossip?

Those who…do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.’
James 1:26 NIV

James dedicates an entire chapter of his book to the tongue. He speaks about how the words we use can ignite a whole fire (take a look at James 3:5). It’s important for us to be careful of the words we use, the tone we’re speaking in, and the types of conversations we participate in. We know our words should be encouraging and life-giving, so when we gossip about others, we are not using our words in the way God wants us to be using them. We cannot say we are following God, and then allow ourselves to be drawn into gossiping. Spreading gossip is not positive, encouraging, or life-giving. It tears people down, regardless of whether it is true or not.

The Bible says: ‘A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends’ (Proverbs 16:28 NLT). Gossip does not just tear the person we are talking about down, it tears down friendships and relationships. However, we are called to live in unity and peace with each other. Paul encouraged the believers in Corinth to ‘be joyful. Grow to maturity. Encourage each other.

Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you’ (2 Corinthians 13:11 NLT). In addition, the same is true for us. We might not think that gossip is a big problem, but James writes: ‘Those who…do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless’. When we gossip, we are undermining the faith we have. So how can we avoid gossip? Perhaps we need to distance ourselves from those who want to gossip, walk away or change the subject when someone starts spreading gossip, and pray that God will help us see the importance of speaking encouraging words to others.

What to Do From Now?
Try and say/text/WhatsApp something encouraging to five people each day.

ONE MORE THING

The word of God for someone today:

For the people shall dwell in Zion at Jerusalem: thou shalt weep no more: he will be very gracious unto thee at the voice of thy cry; when he shall hear it, he will answer thee.”

(Isa. 30:19)

The Almighty God will be your shield and place of safety. He will be gracious unto you and your family. The Lord God of hosts will disappoint the plan of your enemies. The evil people will not succeed over your life and family. God will save you from the sword of the wicked. You will have peace and joy in your dwelling in the precious name of Jesus. By His grace, this week will be your best since the beginning of this year.