Can you keep a secret?

Nobody likes a gossiper, yet many gossipers do not consider themselves to be one. Yet, in Proverbs 11:13, the definition of a gossiper is one who goes around telling secrets. I’ve often wondered why it is so difficult to keep a secret? Even though we know that gossiping can hurt, wound or even destroy people, many still “share” information with a friend or colleague. Gossiping is big business today. Newspapers and newscasts major in gossip. They might say: Breaking News – “Sources confirm” this or that about a person….and yet, all it is, is gossip which will hurt or destroy them. The verse goes on to say that the person who can keep a confidence (keep a secret), is trustworthy. A trustworthy person puts great value on the trust that is given to them. In my opinion, there are not too many trustworthy people around. If you find one, you found a treasure. Always be careful who you share your private business with; they might very well be a gossiper in disguise!!!

Proverbs 11:13 (NLT) – A gossip goes around telling secrets, but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence.

Does your neighbor know if you love them?

The beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord (Prov 9:10). The Proverbist taught that in all our getting, we must get wisdom (Prov 4:7). Wisdom will will prolong our days (Prov 9:11, 10:27). Wisdom will reveal strategies and opportunities in key moments of our lives that will bring glory to God and benefit to our families and communities. It is great wisdom to love our neighbors. Jesus taught that we are to love our neighbors as we love ourselves (Mark 12:31). Wherever there is love for neighbors, there is life, good will, provision for all, and God is pleased. When we love our neighbors, we will not tear them down. We will not seek to destroy them. We will only seek to build them up and desire the best for them. Today, let the light of the Gospel of Jesus Christ shine through you so that your neighbors could see God’s love (Matt 5:16) and be connected to Him in Christ. Remember, we are His ambassadors (2 Cor 5:21)!

Proverbs 11: 12 – He who is devoid of wisdom despises his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his peace.