Did you hear about that “juicy” gossip?

I have a special invitation for you at the end of today’s devotional.

One of the biggest threats in our nation today are leaks of private information that are meant to destroy a person’s character. When secrets are revealed, it is usually destructive and embarrassing. Proverbs 25:9 (ESV) says:  “Argue your case with your neighbor himself, and do not reveal another’s secret.” We are instructed by the scriptures not to reveal another’s secret. When we have a disagreement with anyone, the correct posture is to argue the case directly with them. The goal is to come to an agreement privately and then continue to walk together in peace. In Matthew 18: 15-17,  Jesus teaches that if someone offends us or sins against us, we are to first go directly to them about the offense. Today, when many christians are offended, they share their offense to everyone except to the one that offended them. It feels good to get it of their chest at the moment, but they are setting in motion a series of problems that will arise because of them sharing it with others. Invariably, the information will leak out, and it will foment or incite the destruction of relationships or of someone’s character. This displeases the heart of God. Don’t allow yourself to get caught up in gossip or leaks of information. If someone brings private information to you, either refuse to receive it, or let them know that you might have to share it with someone in leadership. This will stop any gossip or leaks. It will also protect you from taking part in harming your brother or sister in Christ. You will also be pleasing God because it is His will that we settle issues with honor and integrity.

Proverbs 25:9 (ESV)“Argue your case with your neighbor himself, and do not reveal another’s secret”

Don’t miss this Sunday’s service at 11 am. Our guest speaker will be Bishop Joseph Mattera. He is an internationally sought out speaker, who flows with prophetic insight. His teachings on the Kingdom of God are being taught in in cooperation with Oral Roberts University. His articles can be seen in Charisma magazine. He is the founder of Christ Covenant Coalition, an international network of networks.

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.