| Proverbs 26:20-22 – “Without wood a fire goes out; without a gossip a quarrel dies down. As charcoal to embers and as wood to fire, so is a quarrelsome person for kindling strife. The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts.” |
Has anyone ever told you some news about someone else and asked you not to say anything? Or you may have heard about a quarrel between two people, but only received one side of the story? Although you may keep the “secret”, the news still comes out but never the way it was first shared. The narrative has changed and too often, vital facts go missing, which in turn becomes tainted gossip.
The scripture today tells us to be aware of gossip and how bringing it to someone else is like bringing wood to build the fire. Words can be harmful and hurtful. We all argue and have misunderstandings. For those who are not directly involved in the quarrel, be careful not to fan the flames by spreading gossip and rumors. Let us consider one another’s feelings. As fire can burn and cause scars on our bodies, so can gossip burn the spirit, heart, and character of others. Let us be mindful of what we say and remember to build up one another in love and support.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for reminding us to protect each other. Help us to be mindful of what we hear and what we speak to others. Help us to walk in love and honor one another’s feelings. Teach us Lord how to pray for one another, show empathy in each situation and spread love rather than gossip. In Jesus name, Amen.
– Bridgette Wilson
