Article This Week:
26 Jul 2015
The term “verbal diarrhoea” may be familiar to many of us. It is a rather unpleasant way to describe an uncontrolled and unstoppable excretion of words from a person’s mouth. But the Bible has a gentler, more useful and practical way of describing how we can curb this harmful phenomenon. Proverbs 10:19 says: “When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who hold his tongue is wise”. In other words, too much talk may lead to sin and it is prudent and sensible to restrain oneself.
It is in our human nature to talk about the weather and other trivialities whenever we meet. Restraining our tongues has very great significance and impact on curbing gossip – often considered one of the worst sins of our time. Therefore it is important to learn how damaging gossip can be and how Christians especially should abstain from gossiping. Gossip is always done under the pretense of sincerity and good intentions but that is the very character of Satan. Most gossips start off as partially true and what usually happens is that when people spread misinformation, without first determining the facts, someone’s life or reputation is inadvertently affected. Gossip is so subtle that, if you are not careful, you could be unconsciously drawn into it. If you hear something negative being spoken about another person, the safe thing to do is to be quiet or try to steer the conversation in a positive direction such as mentioning the good things which the person has done and is doing. “A gossip betrays a confidence but a trustworthy man keeps a secret” (Prov 11:13).
Gossip destroys relationship by causing resentment and distrust and influences others to avoid that person. Among the things that God dislike is spreading falsehoods against a person – “a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers” (Prov 6:19). While some may consider it as cheap entertainment, as believers, we should hate gossip. Gossip has destroyed more churches, marriages, friendships and reputations than practically anything else. God will hold everyone accountable for their words spoken – “But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgement for every careless word they have spoken” (Matt 12:36). We need to be always aware of the power of spoken words. We should entrust the Holy Spirit to guide us in everything we hear, say and do. Beware especially of “knee jerk” reactions. When in doubt, it is most prudent to keep our mouth shut.
