Pastor Tricia's Ramblings

As we continue our journey of living boldly for Christ, we come to a significant and often overlooked area that can hinder our spiritual growth: gossip. While we readily identify sins like murder, adultery, and stealing, we must also confront the more subtle sins that society often overlooks. Gossip fits squarely into this category, and it is time we recognize its destructive power.

Gossip is akin to cancer; it may not be immediately visible, but its destructive impact becomes evident over time. It destroys relationships, reputations, and integrity—everything it touches. It’s essential to understand that gossip isn’t only about spreading lies or rumors; speaking truth about someone without their consent is also gossip. If it’s not your story to tell, you shouldn’t be sharing it.

A common scenario we see, especially in the church, involves the guise of a “prayer request.” How often do we hear someone say, “Let me share a prayer request about someone else”? But the question remains—what is the motive behind sharing this information? Are we genuinely seeking prayer or merely eager to divulge another person’s private matters? It’s crucial to evaluate our intentions and recognize the potential harm gossip can bring.

Guard Your Mouth

To eliminate gossip from our lives, the first step is to guard our mouths. Psalm 141:3 says, “Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.” This is a powerful reminder that we can rely on the Holy Spirit to help us control our words. Before we speak, let’s ask Him to filter our thoughts, ensuring that what we say is kind, true, and points others back to Christ. This practice will not only protect our relationships, but also safeguard our reputations and integrity.

Be Productive with Your Time

Another way to combat gossip is by staying productive with our time. Second Thessalonians 3:11 warns us against idleness, stating, “For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies.” Gossip often arises from boredom and the temptation to fill silence with discussions about others. Instead, let’s focus on God, our families, and our responsibilities. When we occupy our minds with wholesome tasks and productive conversations, we leave little room for gossip to rear its head.

Limit Interaction with Gossipers

Finally, it may be necessary to limit interactions with those who tend to gossip. Proverbs 20:19 says, “Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a simple babbler.” Spiritual growth sometimes requires tough choices, including distancing ourselves from friends who engage in gossip. Remember that refusing to entertain gossip can elicit challenges from others. Stand firm in your commitment to honor God.

Let’s be open about the need for privacy in others’ lives, and choose not to be the sounding board for rumors. Honor God by honoring the people He has placed in your life.

Conclusion

As we strive to live boldly for Christ, let’s commit to eliminating gossip from our lives. By guarding our mouths, being productive with our time, and limiting our interactions with gossips, we can create a culture of faith-filled conversations that uplift and point others to Jesus.

Join me tomorrow for step three of our series on living boldly for God! Together, let’s become instruments of truth rather than tools for gossip.