Guarding Against Gossip

DCC Devotionals: The Power of the Tongue—Guarding Against Gossip

Scripture Reading:
•Proverbs 16:28 – “A dishonest man spreads strife, and a gossip separates close friends.”
•Proverbs 20:19 – “Do not associate with a gossip.”
•Proverbs 26:20-22 – “Without a gossip a quarrel dies down.”
•Proverbs 18:7-8 – “A fool’s mouth is his undoing, and his lips are a snare to his soul. The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man’s inmost parts.”
•James 3:5-6 – “The tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire.”
•Romans 1:29 – Gossip is considered a sin that is worthy of death.
•Ephesians 4:31 – “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.”
•1 Peter 2:1 – “So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.”

Reflection

The Bible is clear: gossip is dangerous. It destroys relationships, divides friends, and creates unnecessary strife. Words, though small, have immense power. James compares the tongue to a spark that can ignite a wildfire (James 3:5-6). A single careless word, spoken in secret, can spread like flames, leaving behind destruction.

Gossip is often disguised as concern, curiosity, or even prayer requests. However, Proverbs warns us that “the words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man’s inmost parts” (Proverbs 18:8). This means gossip can shape our thoughts, attitudes, and even our character in ways we might not realize.

The Bible doesn’t just warn against speaking gossip—it also tells us to avoid those who engage in it (Proverbs 20:19). Why? Because listening to gossip fuels it. Without an audience, it dies out (Proverbs 26:20).

Paul takes gossip seriously in Romans 1:29, listing it alongside sins like murder and deceit. It’s not a minor issue—it’s a sin that can harden our hearts and separate us from God. That’s why we are commanded in Ephesians 4:31 and 1 Peter 2:1 to rid ourselves of slander and malice. Instead, we should be people who use our words to uplift, encourage, and bring life (Ephesians 4:29).

Application
1.Examine Your Words – Ask yourself, Would I say this if the person I’m talking about were here? If not, it’s probably gossip.
2.Refuse to Listen – Gossip needs an audience. If someone starts gossiping, kindly change the subject or walk away.
3.Speak Life – Instead of tearing others down, use your words to encourage and uplift (Proverbs 12:18).
4.Pray for a Guarded Tongue – Ask God to help you control your speech and use it for His glory (Psalm 141:3).

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to guard my tongue and resist the temptation of gossip. Let my words be filled with grace, encouragement, and truth. If I have harmed others with my speech, give me the courage to seek forgiveness. Fill my heart with love so that I may build up rather than tear down. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Thought

Words have the power to heal or harm. Let’s choose to use our words for good, refusing to spread gossip and instead speaking life into those around us.