%@LANGUAGE="JAVASCRIPT" CODEPAGE="1252"%>
Gossip
Be careful what you say and to whom you say it. Remember, years ago these words
spoken on the playground: *sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will
never hurt me*?
As we grow older we learn that this saying is one of the biggest lies a child
can speak. I know that kids can be brutal to each other and pick on those who
display emotions or tendencies to react quickly. Some just say things to spark
a reaction in others. But as we grow older and move from the playgrounds of
our lives, we enter a field that needs more seriousness than folly. When we
repeat things we hear about others without checking out the truth of the matter
or getting all the facts, we do something that can cause harm to others. When
two or more have a falling out, there is a tendency to belittle or disparage
the other, and sometimes outright lies are told about the others in the dispute.
Yes there are two sides to every story, and don*t just repeat one side, even
if you think the source is reliable. That source may have been lied to as well.
The bible talks about gossip and describes it as a sin. Sometimes we may talk
about someone that they do not want made public. We can hurt someone (or a group
of people) with our words. Jesus told us to watch what we say, because our very
words can condemn us. We read in Matthew 12:36,37: "And I say to you, that
every careless word that men shall speak, they shall render account for it in
the day of judgment. For by your words you shall be justified, and by your words
you shall be condemned." Please take it to heart, and remember it.
Yes, my friends, words can truly hurt. The wrong words can cause damage that
cannot be healed or might take a long time to heal (if you are even given the
chance to make it right).
If you are guilty of gossip, stop now, repent of this sin, and begin the repairing
process.
*Let your speech always be with grace*..* Colossians 4:6
Believe on Jesus the Son of God, (Acts 16:31). Repent of your sins (Acts 8:22).
Confess His name publicly (Romans 10:9-10) Be baptized for the remission of
sins (Acts 2:38, Mark 16:15-16). Be faithful unto death (Revelation 2:10).
May God bless you in your study of His word.
By Carey Scott
Return to the General Articles page
Home / Bible studies / Bible Survey / Special Studies / General Articles / Non-Bible Articles / Sermons / Sermon Outlines / Links / Questions and Answers / What Saith The Scriptures /Daily Devotional / Correspondence Courses / What is the Church of Christ / Book: Christian Growth / Website Policy / E-mail / About Me /