trbccoffeebreak

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”  Philippians 4:8 (NIV)

Thinking before we speak would alleviate so much in our lives. Oddly, words often presented as a prayer request, ‘helpful’ information shared with your best friend, or sadly, details possibly capable of damaging someone’s character can be described as ‘godly’ gossip.  Depending on the person there is a tendency to have the heart of a storyteller or a story keeper.

God’s Word teaches storytellers are foolish, contentious, untrustworthy, devious, deceitful, destroyers, hypocrites, insecure and prideful – to name a few.   However, a godly story keeper will determine to say what brings forth that which pleases God.  How?

Many scriptures address this subject in God’s Word (Ephesians 5:26, I John 1:9, Proverbs 4:23, 21:23, Philippians 4:8) which highlight several questions we must ask ourselves:

1. Is it true?
2. Is it noble & will the reputation of the other person remain in tact?
3. Is it right – did I add or take away from it?
4. Is it pure & what motivation made it necessary to be repeated?
5. Is it loving?
6. Is it honorable – did I hurt the other person’s character?

Gossip is never healthy.   One guarantee words will not damage:  if something can’t be said edifying say nothing at all.

“Dear Father please help me to think before I speak and always seek to edify not tear others down.”

For His Glory

Patsy Sanders
TRBC Coffee Break