speaking

Think back over the past few days. . . what did you talk about? Were the words that you spoke true? Were they pleasing to God? Did you gossip about anyone? Or any event? How did you embellish a story to keep your audience entranced? When was the last time you passed along hearsay? Or “shared a juicy morsel of news” with someone? Or shared a “prayer request” that was actually rumor? Be careful! Listen to what the Bible says about gossip. . .

• A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends. (Proverbs 16:28)
• My mouth speaks what is true, for my lips detest wickedness. (Proverbs 8:7)
• A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much. (Proverbs 20:19)
• Without wood a fire goes out; without gossip a quarrel dies down. (Proverbs 26:20)
• Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue. (Proverbs 17:28)
• A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret. (Proverbs 11:13)

Take the time to inspect your speech today. Ask God to point out those false stories that you may be passing along. The next time you’re tempted to gossip just close your mouth. . .and you will earn the legacy of being a trustworthy, wise follower of Christ!