“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 storykeeper.
God’s Word teaches storytellers are foolish, contentious, untrustworthy, devious, deceitful, destroyers, hypocrites, insecure and prideful – to name a few. However, a godly storykeeper 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
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