TODAY’S SCRIPTURE : Leviticus 17-20 chapters DEVOTION
“Do not spread slanderous gossip among your people.” -Leviticus 19:16 (NLT)
In the Bible, gossip is described as the careless or malicious sharing of someone else’s personal information often behind their back. It may seem harmless, but it leads to conflict, broken relationships, and damaged reputations.
Gossip
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Conflict
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Broken relationships
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Damaged reputations
Gossip is essentially a misuse of the tongue. “You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.”-James 1:19 (NLT)
“People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison.” – James 3:7-8 (NLT)
Scripture highlights a striking paradox, humans can train powerful elephants and swift birds, yet often struggle to control a small muscle in their own mouths. Though taming the tongue is difficult, it is not impossible. That is why Proverbs 4:23 reminds us to “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” A guarded heart leads to guarded words.
THINK Before You Speak/gossip
Ask yourself these questions
T – Is it Truthful? (Am I 100% sure?)
H – Is it Helpful? (Will this help solve a problem?)
I – Is it Inspiring? (Does it build others up?)
N – Is it Necessary? (Does this really need to be said?)
K – Is it Kind? (Would I say this if they were standing here?)
PRAYER
Dear God, thank You for helping me understand how harmful gossip can be. I choose today to guard my heart and my words, and to speak with wisdom and love. Help me to honor You in everything I say. In Jesus name, Amen.