What the Bible say about Gossip and How to Stay away from it

DEALING WITH GOSSIP

The Bible has a great deal to say about gossip. It has several passages that address the topic and provide guidance on how to avoid engaging in it. But before we delve into the Bible, let's briefly look at what it means and the impact it has on us. 

This topic of gossip is as old as time itself, and I believe we've all encountered it in one form or another. While it might seem harmless at the time of engaging in it, gossip can have a profound impact on our relationships, our well-being, and our communities.

So, what exactly is gossip?

 

At its core, gossip is the act of discussing or disseminating information about someone, typically when they are not around, and often without their permission. This information can be true, false, or a blend of both. 

Gossip takes various forms. There is a kind that is often associated with backstabbing and hurtful intent. It involves spreading rumors, untruths, or personal information with the intent of harming someone's reputation. It is called Malicious Gossip. 

The other one is called Idle Chatter. This is where people sometimes engage in gossip without realizing its consequences. Sharing casual, sometimes unverified information can still be damaging, even if unintentional.

Why Do People Gossip?

 

a) Some people engage in gossip to claim power and control over others. By spreading negative information, they can manipulate situations or relationships. For instance, gossiping about a colleague at work to get recognition from your boss.

b) Others engage in gossip because of their insecurity and low self-esteem. They speak about other people's flaws or shortcomings in order to feel good about themselves. That's their means of boosting their self-esteem.

c) Some use that as an escape method to run away from daily challenges. Instead of manning up and dealing with those challenges, they'd rather discuss other people's issues. How is this possible?

d) Some, to get recognition or validation from their peers and groups engage in gossip. They share secrets and rumors to make them feel accepted and well-connected.

The Impact of Gossip

 

We must understand that gossip isn't just idle chatter, as I've already explained above. It can have a serious impact on individuals and communities.

a) It can cause damage to reputations. Slander or gossip can tarnish someone's reputation, often beyond repairs. This can impact personal and professional relationships.

b) Gossip can have a deep impact on a person's mental and emotional well-being. People who are subject to slander constantly experience stress, anxiety, and even depression.

c) Victims of gossip or targeted individuals may withdraw themselves from circles. They may stay back from social circles, and that's when anxiety, stress, and depression set in. Gossip leads to isolation.

d) Trust is broken as people begin to look at the victim in some way. In our fast-paced community where falsehood travels faster with the speed of light than truth, it becomes difficult for the victim to clear his or her name and regain trust.

Dealing with the issue of gossip

 

This is what the Bible has to say about people who gossip. 

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

This verse emphasizes the negative consequences of spreading rumors or gossip. It warns against engaging in such behavior as it can harm relationships and create division.

"A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret." Proverbs 11:13 (NIV) 

Being trustworthy and discreet is a very important thing. We are encouraged by this scripture to keep information confidential rather than engaging in slander or revealing secrets.

The Bible again says, "A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much." Proverbs 20:19 (NIV)

We are advised against having an association with those who habitually engage in gossip or slander. This verse suggests that distancing oneself from such individuals is a wise choice.

Avoiding the Gossip Trap

 

 

1. The Bible teaches us to guard our tongues.

Practicing self-control and being mindful of the words we speak can help prevent gossip. That is, think about what you want to say. Ask yourself if what you're about to share is true, necessary, and kind. If not, it's best left unsaid.

 

 "Whoever guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from troubles." Proverbs 21:23 (NKJV)

2. We need to apply wisdom and discernment in every conversation. This will help us develop the ability to control our speech and avoid participating in gossip.

Proverbs 10:19 (NKJV), "In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, But he who restrains his lips is wise."

3. We have to do unto others as we would want them to do unto us (Matthew 7:12). Try to put yourself in the subject's shoes, and imagine how would you feel if someone was gossiping about you. Showing empathy can help you make better choices in your conversations.

4. The Bible instructs us to build others up with our word in our conversations. It teaches that "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). Concentrating on positive and edifying speech can help redirect conversations away from gossip.

5. Addressing conflicts directly is a great way to avoid slander. If you have a concern about someone or something, address it directly with the involved parties. Matthew 18:15 encourages resolving issues by addressing them directly with the person involved rather than spreading rumors or gossiping about them. It says, "Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother." Matthew 18:15 (NKJV).

6. Do well to change the topic whenever you realize the conversation is getting to the gossipy point. Gently steer it in a different direction. Share something positive or change the subject altogether. 

Conclusion

In a world where words travel fast and far, we must understand the impact of gossip. Gossip in its various forms, can break relationships and influence our well-being. So, it's important to be mindful of our words and spread kindness and positivity instead of rumors and gossip. By this, we can foster healthier relationships and create communities based on trust and respect.