Did You Hear?

Whispered Secrets

It doesn't need to be passed on, even it it's true.
Remember, the next rumor could be about you.
If you listen to ridicule and scoop,
you'll become part of the vicious loop.
Keep confidential the things you were told,
those things you've promised to withhold.
Move away from those who point fingers and talk.
Don't jeopardize your Christian walk.
If you slip up along the way,
pray to God for control in what you say.

With his mouth the godless destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous escape (Proverbs 11:9)

Sometimes we encounter someone who always has some "news" to share. This sort of person seems to thrive on knowing it all. They may simply be misguided, thinking that they are doing a favor by sharing confidential information. Or they may have malice in their heart.

As a Christian, how should we respond? First, we should be honest and say we areuncomfortable with this sort of conversation. If the person is a Christian, remind him gently of God's dislike of gossiping. He may not even realize that what he is doing is gossiping.

Nobody is perfect, but if the person refuses to change his conversations with us, we may need to evaluate if this is a person with whom we should associate. If we feel God does want us in this person's life, then we can help him control his tongue instead of letting it flap like a thirsty dog's. Let him know when he has used harsh and condemning words. Ask him how he would feel if someone was sharing his personal information. When talking with him, point out the positive in situations and in people. Don't be shy; tell him that you think he was wrong to say what he said.

The goal is to get him to realize how gossip affects his relationship with others. In the long run, though, we can't change others--only Christ can do that. We are each responsible before God for our own behavior, and we must be careful to keep ourselves free from gossip's chains.

We should use the great power of our minds and mouths to build others up instead of cutting them down. Think about what you are about to say before you speak. Use the blessing of speech that God gave to give blessings to others.

My prayer:

Heavenly Father, I thank You for giving me the ability to speak and I pray that You will help me to use my gift for You. Be with me, Lord, as I try to use my words to comfort and encourage. Help me to make a difference in someone's life. Amen

Rhonda Owen-Smith
image courtesy of All Poster

Mimi