Proverbs 26:20-22 (KJV) Says, "Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife. The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly." Ephesians 4:29 (KJV) Says, "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers." Proverbs 16:28 (KJV) Says, "A froward man soweth strife and a whisperer separateh chief friends."
The above verses of scripture taken from the book of Proverbs make clear that when we stop adding wood to a fire the fire goes out. These verses also make clear that the same can be said about spreading gossip or sharing news that should not be shared. When we partake in gossip or the spreading of any type information that is negative and should not be shared we are feeding the flame of a fire and growing it's intensity.
Theses verses from the book of Proverbs also make clear that, when we spread gossip or share news that should not be shared our words are like wounds. Words when not chosen wisely can and do cause harm to people and relationships.
The above verse of scripture taken from the book of Ephesians makes clear that we should not allow gossip or any form of hurtful and damaging speech to come out of our mouths. This verse instructs us that we should speak only on things that are good as born again believers in Jesus Christ. If we go about spreading gossip and stirring up strife then we are not behaving in a Christ-like manner. When others see that we do not participate in conversations that are based on gossip then we are setting a good example for them of what it looks like to be a Christian who is walking the walk. If we jump into these type conversations and gossip with those that are having a field day with someone then we are behaving no differently than they are, and I can promise you they will not see the fruits of the Spirit in us; or the light of Jesus Christ. Joining in on these type conversations is extremely damaging to our personal testimony, and it causes us to blow an opportunity to witness to those around us through our behavior. I am by no means saying that you should be rude, throw you nose up in the air and walk away in disgust, when you come upon one of these conversations. I am saying do not engage in them. You can either redirect the conversation; or walk away in a quiet and humble way. They will eventually get the message that engaging in these type conversations does not fit who you are in Christ.
Proverbs 16:28 listed above makes clear the damage that can be caused by one who is a talebearer and/or gossip. It makes clear that those who go about talking behind the backs of others, spreading gossip, and stirring up strife leave painful damage in their wake. Please note it doesn't say that they cause minor damage with their tongue or that they cause a little trouble, it says that their behavior separates even the greatest of friends.
I have seen, as I'm sure you have as well, the damage that can be caused by gossips, talebearers, and those who seem to feed off of strife. What could have been addressed and resolved between two individuals having an issue, easily turns into a fast-spreading poison that can run through an entire family like a wildfire, when a gossip or talebearer gets involved. We've all met people that can't wait to spread some piece of gossip that they've gotten their hands on. I have witnessed known gossips as they hear news that I realize they see as a dirt alert, and the moment they hear it their eyes light up with excitement. It was obvious secondary to the gleam in their eye that they can't wait to spread the news, and feed the flame.
I encourage you to remember that words added to strife are like wood added to a fire, and that both feed a flame. I further encourage you to avoid gossips and talebearers, and their attempts to cause strife and spread poison. Don't allow yourself to be caught up in their toxic behavior. Anytime you find yourself in a situation where a person or persons are talking about someone behind their back; or spreading gossip, refuse to be a part of it. Remind yourself that gossip and talking bad about other people does not fit who you are as a Christian. I urge you also to be extremely careful who you share your personal problems with. While it is great to have a friend or friends that we can confide in we must make certain they have our best interest at heart, that they are truly concerned for us, that they love us, and that they are not among those that are eager to feed a flame.
If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you, leave me a message and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you!
No comments:
Post a Comment