The following 9 minute video is a discussion panel wherein 3 pastor’s wives thoughtfully discuss the various aspects of gossip. Video highlights are noted below the video:
Significant points from the above video:
- We Christians should cultivate a reputation that indicates that we are not open to receiving gossip from others
- All people, Christian or not, are image bearers of God; therefore, we need to respect them
- Gossip demeans another [Jesus calls it murder. It murders the reputation of another]
- Gossip can sneak in the side door of your mind in the form of your thoughts, words regarding prayer requests…that is, via positive activities; therefore, carefully monitor YOUR thoughts and words
- We ought to want to be worthy of being confided in by others [if you’re a gossip, then others will not be confiding in you; all your relationships, including family, will be superficial because others will have their guard up around you…]
- When we do not refuse to hear gossip we are bowing to “fear of man” and should view that as a personal sin before God and humans
- We show love to the person carrying the message of gossip when we respectfully confront them about what they are doing
- Pray to God for the necessary grace to NOT gossip or listen to gossip
- If spouses discuss such a matter, then it should be kept between them in strict confidence
- If someone shares a problem, it is right to direct them to the pastor, but ask permission to share it with the pastor if they elect not to go to him
- Social media is full of gossip and should be limited or avoided
- Abide in God’s means of grace; pray for grace to love what is good
Please consider these appropriate words: Php 4:8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.