Dismantle Gossip and Break the Cycle – Part 1

The Bible teaches us that the words that come from our mouths have a significant impact, because the potential of those expressions can heal or harm others. Our words can impact relationships as well as our well-being and even destroy trust. I have a personal rule that I live by. If I don’t ask, don’t tell me. To put it another way, I am not the garbage disposal because gossip destroys relationships.

Proverbs 11:13 and 20:19 warn us that it separates friends, so never confide in anyone who talks too much. Those with a loose tongue are unreliable, and you cannot trust them. Because if they always gossip about someone, what will they do when you share your business with them? They will betray your trust.

Besides, we achieve more when we build relationships on trust than gossip because revealing secrets and slandering others tear down families, communities, and relationships. It leaves behind a trail of anger, distrust, and mayhem. Dear One, show others that they can trust you to keep their confidence, so you can help restore them rather than hurting them.

 

When there is no wood, a fire cannot ignite. Those who refuse to gossip stop discord from producing division and conflict.

For lack of wood the fire goes out, And where there is no gossiper, quarreling quiets down. 21 Like charcoal to hot embers and wood to fire, So is a contentious person to kindle strife. (Proverbs 26:20-21, AMP)

Wisdom must take center stage when someone spreads a rumor and extinguishes the wicked intentions of the gossiper. Because the more they talk, the greater the damage. The wisest choice is not to satisfy their appetite but to eliminate their purposes. (Proverbs 10:19).

Older Men Mentoring Younger Men

Even regarding family matters, Scripture instructs us how to conduct ourselves. The older men are to be mentors who disciple the younger men because they require positive role models. Dear One, these men exercise restraint and are moderate in everything they do. It includes how they respond to pressure, what they eat and drink, and how they dress. Their attitude is guided by integrity; while persevering with deep conviction, self-control, and soundness in their faith, trust, and love. 

Older men are to be temperate, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, in perseverance. (Titus 2:2, NASB).

The Wisdom of the Older Women

With utmost reverence, older women are to live with deep respect and impart wisdom through sound teachings. They must not be malicious gossipers or overindulge in drinking wine. However, God expects them to be virtuous and examples to younger women by modeling good works. They must exemplify grace and dignity and not be a stumbling block to others. (Titus 2:3-5)

Recall my story of how my Big Mama and the mothers of the Mother’s Board helped build my self-worth and self-confidence. Every time I read the Bible to Big Mama, she instilled in me the wisdom of God. When they asked me to reflect on whatever Bible lessons they discussed, I looked at them in wonder. I was only a child trying to learn all I could from them, and they were interested in what I had to say. That was mesmerizing!

To this day, I cannot recall a word I said, but they continued to ask me to speak. These women showed me the importance of relationships, virtue, and respect. Even when I visited them at their homes, they lived a holy life inside and outside the four walls of the church. I am the woman I am today because of Big Mama, my mother, and these wise women of grace. They made me feel valuable. 

We all play a role in spreading the goodness of God, instead of gossip, across the world. Join us next week in Part 2 to discover how you can make a difference.

May the song, Hands Of The Healer by Hope Drast minister to you profoundly.

RECOMMENDED RESOURCE: Difference Between the Holy Spirit's Guidance and Emotions

TIME FOR REFLECTION: Can you recall a time when you were the victim of gossip? How did it impact your life?

Can you recall a time when you chose to gossip and its effects on others? Have you taken responsibility for your actions and changed your heart?

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Bless yourself, your family, and your friends with my books. These devotionals are a great source of encouragement. Use them for Bible Study, Group Fellowships, and even Prayer Groups.