“But avoid irreverent babble, for it will lead people into more and more ungodliness.” 2 Timothy 2:16 ESV

Do you ever find yourself entangled in gossip?

Sometimes, sitting beside a sister or close friends, I find myself entangled in gossip. It can be easily tempting to engage in idle talk. We call it “girl talk,” to make it sound acceptable.  Sometimes I find myself complaining, or I may justify it as venting. Now there are times when venting can be a healthy action when looking for support and spiritual guidance. Though most times, we most likely find ourselves suffocating our morality with idle talk. This kind of talk usually has no real purpose other than to put someone else in a negative light. In return, your light becomes dimmer with each word that continues to vomit from your lips.

“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Ephesians 4:29 ESV

We all can find ourselves quickly entangled in this trap. Scripture is clear that this is disgraceful. I can struggle with this at times, especially when I feel hurt or angry. This is the time to go before the Lord and ask for guidance to help purge and release. We all are imperfect people, allow space for grace and forgiveness so you can move on from this uncomfortable place.

“If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.” James 1:26 ESV

“I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak.” Matthew 12:36 ESV

Reflection Questions:

1.      Ask yourself why you feel the need to share someone else’s shortcomings.

2.      What good will come out of it?

3.      Would you want someone to speak about you in the same way? How would that make you feel?

A. When you find yourself in the presence of gossip…

1.      Walk away.

2.      Utilize the strength of your voice to offer a prayer for the individual who was discussed.

3.      Cut the idle talk off by shutting it down in a kind way.

B. When you find yourself in thought or mid-conversation and have a sudden awareness of your negative talk…

1.      Stop yourself before your thoughts are given the power of sound.

2.      Apologize to the person(s) you are in the presence of and put an immediate stop to it.

3.      Pray for forgiveness.

PRAY:

God of Grace,

Help me to be slow to anger and not react callously from a place of hurt. Soften my heart when I feel wronged. Shut my lips when I feel the need to share someone else’s shortcomings. Reveal to me the things I may wish to say, that may hurt others. Give me the courage to expose those who speak negatively.  Forgive me for any ugly words I have given power to. Gift me awareness that can prevent me from saying things I will regret. Because there is power in words, allow me to draw from your strength to say what is good. Help me with my weakness. In Jesus name, Amen!