I may feel that I don't have much to be worked on in my life, but the few things that are out of order are doozies! One of my biggest issues is with gossip and my words! If you are a woman, you definitely know what I'm talking about.
I try very hard not to gossip or tear others down with my words, but it's a big job to handle on my own... especially when it feels so good.
Proverbs 18:8(NIV) "The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man's inmost parts." Another version (NKJV) says that the words of a gossip are like tasty trifles. When we or other people begin to regurgitate gossip (word vomit), it goes down smoothly into our souls. However, being saved and having the Holy Spirit in me gives me a much different result. Though the words may go down smoothly and sweetly like honey, later the words turn bitter in my soul. It's like eating too much candy. The Message version of the Bible says this:
"Listening to gossip is like eating cheap candy; do you really want junk like that in your belly?" Proverbs 18:8
Do you really want junk like that in your belly (soul, spirit)? No. We have no use for gossip in our lives. Many people make their livelihood spreading gossip about others. Why do we feel the need to know and have an opinion on other people's business?
About 10 years ago, my pastor preached on this very subject. He said that the best way to get away from gossip is to ask yourself two questions: Am I part of the problem? Am I part of the solution? If we are not personally part of the problem, you have no use talking about the other person. If you cannot give a biblical or sound solution, you have no use talking about the other person. And let me tell you, people get offended when you stop them from spreading their news. Don't worry about that. We must be examples of love and correct our weaker brothers and sisters in Christ. Even if your local gossip is not a Christian, you will shine a much needed light of Christ!
"So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the law and the Prophets." Matthew 7:12(NIV)
We hate finding out that others are spreading our personal business all over the place. So if we hate it and it hurts, why wouldn't we think that other people wouldn't feel the same?
The Bible tells us to flee (run) from sexual immorality and to flee from idolatry. In the same manner, we should RUN away from gossip and/or those who are gossiping. We always have the opportunity to be the bigger and wiser person. (I Corinthians 10:12-13) Let's take it! Don't find yourself eating up word vomit.
Post a Comment