There’s nothing like a good piece of juicy gossip to get one feeling important or energized. Do you feel this way? Many do and it’s possible there is some gossip on you out there, whether it’s true or not. What constitutes gossip?
The American Heritage Dictionary’s definition states, “Rumor or talk of a personal, sensational, or intimate nature.”
So does this mean any personal information? I have yet to meet a single person who has not gossiped a bit in one way or another. I too struggle with gossip. Not all of it is intended to be negative. When personal information is leaked to a party not involved, it can be considered gossip. This can include prayer requests for specific persons while sharing irrelevant detailed information. It can mean information shared in a genuine concerned fashion—or not.
Gossip can be done in a back stabbing fashion too. Sometimes people have malicious motives; they can talk about someone in such a way that will cause a changed perception of the person being gossiped about. It could also be revealing a secret. People even exaggerate or lie to spice up the gossip a bit. A lot of gossip occurs to bring focus on a person in hopes they’ll gain attention on thier exciting delivery of information. Truth is, no matter how you try to justify gossip, God knows your heart. He knows whether you are gossiping with intention or not.
What does the Bible say about gossip? The Bible talks about it in various terms referring it as: whispering, backbiting, slander, false accusing, busy-bodying… I believe God doesn’t like these things because of the motives behind them and the damage they do to others. These actions divide and give way to other sins.
“These six things the LORD hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren.” (Proverbs 6:16-19)
If gossip is an area you struggle with, pray asking the Lord to bring to mind the sin before you commit it so you can hold your tongue. Ask him to forgive you for the sins of gossip you’ve committed. I believe He will.
“Also do not take to heart everything people say, lest you hear your servant cursing you. For many times, also, your own heart has known that even you have cursed others.” (Ecclesiastes 7:21-22)
Scripture references are quoted from the NKJV.