Gossip Girl

Without wood, a fire goes out; without gossip, conflict dies down. – Proverbs 26:20 (HCSB)

When my kids were young, a group of mothers decided to meet up for a “mom’s night out” twice a month.  In the beginning, I enjoyed the adult conversations and meals without sippy cups and cheddar goldfish.  But after a few months, I began to dread going.  Not really sure why, I asked a friend what she thought.  Bluntly she answered, “I can’t stand it anymore. All we do now is gossip.”  She was right.  What had once been an uplifting break from young motherhood had devolved into nights of drama and conflict.

These were wonderful women.  Great mothers and faithful wives.  Somehow, we had let our guard down and allowed negative thinking to take over the conversations.  It happens all too easily.  Think about the last time someone brought up the messes in another person’s life, like an unfaithful husband, or an out of control child.  How quickly did the conversation turn to critical analysis of what they were doing wrong and or how they could fix it?

• “I know it’s not my place to judge, but…”
• “I just can’t understand how she puts up with that…”
• “It’s a simple fix, really.  She should just…”

It’s hard to resist not chiming in, because we have strong opinions and well-intentioned advice.  But ask yourself, would you be speaking that way if that person was sitting across the table from you?

God tells us in Proverbs 26 that without gossip, a conflict fades and dies down.  Wouldn’t you rather surround yourself with people who lift your spirit, encourage your faith, and spur you on to live your best life possible?  

That is my prayer for you.  Be encouraged to squelch any desire you may have to gossip.  Stand strong in your faith and be wise knowing your words have the power to uplift or tear down.  And give thanks to God because your past gossip is forgiven and He can put out any fire of conflict that is smoldering in your life.

The Power of Giving God Thanks Will Ignite Your Faith and Change Your World!

Thank You for Being a Part of the 3 O’Clock Wake Up Movement