Take A Stand!

Let everything you say be...an encouragement.Ephesians 4:29

Gossip by its very nature is destructive, regardless of your rationalisation. It's a sick form of entertainment - and a major sign of insecurity! Let's be honest, knowledge is power; the reason we gossip is to impress others with what "we know."

A student who was the subject of vicious rumours writes: "I remember it like it was yesterday. The queasy stomach, the tears, the hurt. I thought I'd be sick as I sank to my knees on the cold concrete floor...Iknew I didn't deserve this. But that didn't make it any easier. I felt like I didn't have a friend in the world. All because of gossip." God says,
"Evil people relish malicious conversation" ( Proverbs 17:4 ).
Did you get that? Gossip isn't just frivolous - it's down right evil!
So,how should you respond to those who whisper in your ear,
"Have you heard about so 'n so?"

(1) Speak up. Listen: "Fire goes out for lack of fuel, and quarrels disappear when gossip stops" ( Proverbs 26:20 ).
Tell your friends kindly but firmly that gossip is hurtful. If that doesn't work, vote with your feet. Walk away!
(2) Consider the consequences. Wise up! Smart people know if you'll gossip to them, you'll gossip about them! And what's worse, you're dishonouring God and degrading your testimony!
TheBible says, "Whatever you...say, let it be as a representative of..Jesus" ( Colossians 3:17 ). You're representing - whom?
(3) Be an encourager. Paul says, "Let everything you say be...an encouragement.
"So whenever you hear somebody being criticised, turn the conversation
around and say something nice.