On the 4th of July, the nation of France was left in
shock as a teacher was stabbed to death by the mother of one of her pupils in
front of her class. The end of year results had just been released and her
daughter’s performance was poor.
As extreme as that was, it happens everytime we engage in the sin
of gossip and slander (Leviticus 19:16, Psalms 31:13). Gossip can kill suddenly
or slowly as its cancerous tentacles spread around. It was through gossip and misrepresentation
of facts that the Pharisees were able to present a reason to kill Jesus (Matthew
26:61). Nothing causes discord (Proverbs 6:16, 19) or stirs strife (Proverbs
26:20) like gossip. It halts (Numbers 12:15; 1-3) and damages (Proverbs 16:28;18:8,21)
relationships and subsequently robs us of the beauty of relating to people on a
first hand basis (1 Samuel 24:9).It also leaves no place for grace for the
weaknesses of others as well as dethrones God of his right to be judge. God is
dishonoured when we gossip (Psalms 50:19-21, Malachi 2:5-7).
 |
| Gossip is like cancer,everyone involved is hurt. |
Recognizing and avoiding situations when we are
most tempted to gossip is wisdom (Proverbs 18:6-8, 1 Corinthians 5:11).Our words are a reflection of our hearts. Regular
examination of our motives and hearts can place a check on the sin of gossiping
(Romans 1:29-30). It may be that we need to rid it of malice, pride and
jealousy (Psalms 101:5).
Finally, make it your business to mind your business #MIYB2MYB (1 Timothy 5:13).
Grace Tom-Lawyer
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