Proverbs 18:8 NLT // Rumors are dainty morsels that sink deep into one’s heart.
- Everything that is said must be true.
- Not everything that is true must be said.
1. Gossip hurts the person it's spoken about.
Proverbs 16:28 NLT // A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends.
2. Gossip hurts the listener.
Proverbs 17:4 NLT // Wrongdoers eagerly listen to gossip; liars pay close attention to slander.
3. Gossip hurts the speaker.
Proverbs 25:9-10 NLT // When arguing with your neighbor, don’t betray another person’s secret. Others may accuse you of gossip, and you will never regain your good reputation.
- How do we control gossip?
1. Guard your ears.
- Why are you telling me this?
- Have you had a chance to talk to them about this?
Matthew 18:15 NLT // If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back.
Proverbs 20:19 NLT // A gossip goes around telling secrets, so don’t hang around with chatterers.
2. Close your mouth.
Proverbs 21:23 NLT // Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.
