Resisting GossipSample

Bearing Bad News

Gossip is, obviously, a “talking” thing. As we saw yesterday, scripture says, “The words of a gossip are like choice morsels" (Prov. 18:8). Gossip is sharing, communicating, and transmitting stories. These stories flow in both directions: talking and listening.

First, talking. Proverbs says, “A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much” (20:19). The old King James word for a gossip in Proverbs 20:19 is a “talebearer,” or one who carries a story. Gossiping is often sharing someone else’s secret. Have you ever done that? I must admit that I have, to my shame. Have you ever had it done to you? It feels awful to find out that someone gave away your secret. It is a betrayal by talking.

Then there is listening. Proverbs also says, “Wrongdoers eagerly listen to gossip; liars pay close attention to slander” (17:4, NLT). Sometimes even just receiving that spicy piece of gossip without stopping the conversation (or, at least, saying something) is sinful—almost as sinful as speaking it.

Of course, this bearing of bad news is not done by just talking in person. Technology has made it possible for us to gossip long-distance. We can gossip on the phone. We can gossip online. We can share our gossip on social media!

I love social media. It is a great way to stay in touch with people. But anything that can be used for great good can also be used for great evil, especially if it involves a lot of words. The Bible teaches this: “When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise” (Prov. 10:19).

So sinful gossip for me might be pressing the “Send” button on my phone, the “Publish” button on my blog, or the “Share” button on my Facebook account. Remember, whatever is said online is pretty much permanent. Think first!