Mouth on Fire: Gossip
Jan. 24, 2021
This ONE THING changes the course of your life
James 3:2 We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.
Words are disproportionate in effect
Ask to understand
If you can change your circumstance, do something
If you can’t change your circumstances, change your perspective
“God what are you doing in the unchangeable?”
Spiritual Discipline of Attentiveness
Proverbs 16:28 A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends
Gossip/Slander
Gossip: sharing negative information when you are not a part of the problem or the solution
Slander: sharing true information with the design to hurt
Proverbs 18:8 The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts.
Desire for Respect (Sherlock Knows)
Lack of Self-Control (Olympic Lips)
PR 10:19 When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise
Strategic Maneuver (Photo-shopper)
Proverbs 18:17 The first to plead his case seems right, Until another comes and examines him
Biblical Cures?
Face to Face
Matt. 18:15 If your brother or sister sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over.
Proverbs 26:17 Like one who seizes a dog by the ears is a passer-by who meddles in a quarrel not his own.
Quietly Pray
Proverbs 10:19 Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues
Keep Secrets
Proverbs 11:13 A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.
Stop the Gossiper
Proverbs 17:4 Wrongdoers eagerly listen to gossip; liars pay close attention to slander.
Apologize for Words
I will not share a bad report about someone to others who are not a part of the problem or a part of the solution
PS 141:3 Set a guard over my mouth, O LORD; keep watch over the door of my lips
