The tongue has the power of life and death… —Proverbs 18:21 (NIV)

The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts. —Proverbs 18:8 (NIV)

Realities about gossip:

1. It’s everywhere.

2. We’ve all been a victim.

3. We’ve all been a carrier.

A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends. —Proverbs 16:28 (NIV)

A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much. —Proverbs 20:19 (NIV)

Without wood a fire goes out; without gossip a quarrel dies down. —Proverbs 26:20 NIV

Get a grip on gossip

1. Talk to people not about people.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. —Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)

2. Practice the Golden Rule with the tongue.

“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you…” —Matthew 7:12 (NIV)

Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips. —Psalm 141:3 (NIV)

3. Clean up your mess.

“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” —Matthew 5:23-24 (NIV)

Discussion Questions

1. In your own words, define gossip.

2. When or where are you tempted the most to gossip? Why?

3. Why do you think people like to listen to gossip?

4. What are some of the negative consequences of gossip?

5. What was your biggest takeaway from this morning?