Dream Haters: Gossip Groupies

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

Ephesians 4:29 (ESV)

Gossip spreads in the same way dams collapse: a drop, then a trickle, and pretty soon… an uncontrolled flood of ruination.

If someone sees the first dangerous drip, could he have stopped the overwhelming flood? YES!

Gossip spreads in the same way fire ignites: a spark, then a small glow, and pretty soon… an unstoppable fire of destruction.

If someone sees the flame when it’s tiny, could he have stopped the vast conflagration? YES!

  • Because 'The tongue is a fire... and sets on fire the course' (James 3:6) of many lives. But… 'Where there is no wood, the fire goes out; And where there is no talebearer, strife ceases' (Proverbs 26:20).

  • Because 'He who is trustworthy conceals a matter' (Proverbs 11:13), because 'He who covers a transgression seeks love' (Proverbs 17:9), because 'Love covers a multitude of sins' (1 Peter 4:8), because 'Love never fails' (1 Corinthians 13:8), and...

Because no one but Jesus is perfect. We all make mistakes.

Actors, models, and talent for Christ:

To remain gossip-free in today's world would require media isolation. Because you’re following God’s Commission, isolation is not the right option. So…

Consider two Gossip Protection Plans and Life Preservers:

2 Protection Plans:

  1. Concerning your small and wide circles of kin, speak up against gossip right at the start. Christians should know better and show better. 'One who sows discord among brethren' (Proverbs 6:19) is an abomination to the Lord.

  2. Concerning your walk in a confused world, tread lightly. Most people don't know Jesus. Without the Spirit, we all would be lost. Be kind and don't hang in gossip circles. When possible, extinguish harmful sparks.

2 Life Preservers:

  1. If you’ve mixed with gossips, stop, drop, and roll. STOP! Two thumbs down. Don't do it anymore; DROP! Get on your knees and ask God’s forgiveness; ROLL! Repent and turn back to positive words.

  2. If you’ve been the victim of gossipers, forgive and forget. Jesus showed you how. He’ll give you the strength. Seek out true friends and better company.

Dream Haters: Gossip Groupies (Part 18)

NOTE: God is my Ghostwriter. If what I write is good, it’s from God. You may see notes to 'Actors, Models & Talent for Christ.' If you think you're not in show business, think again. Shakespeare said, 'All the world's a stage and all its men and women merely players.’ Mostly true. But you're not merely players. You are messengers and ambassadors for the King of kings.

Carey Arban