Free To Live

The clandestine whispers of a bad report in a gathering of saints have a devastating effect as the fires of gossip spread. The Bible includes this in a list of grievous sins. “…being filled with unrighteousness, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness, full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil mindedness; they are whisperers.” (Rom. 1:29) It is strange that emboldened gossip is not usually recognized as a sin, yet each tender morsel is taken in and then embellished as it is passed on to others. In a very brief period of time a bad report can mushroom into a black cloud full of particles of criticism, doubt, improper judgment, hurt feelings, self-righteousness, and division, etc. It is then given hearty approval as it spreads its poison. If left unchecked it can ultimately have an adverse affect on certain people, a church family, or even a whole community.

Talebearers are very adept and consistent at passing on bad reports, especially when it involves the pastor, his family, or other church leaders. All of us have been victims of such sinful practices and may have been party to such behavior a time or two. God knows the gravity of this sin and tells us not to listen or even associate with a whisperer. “A perverse man sows strife and a whisperer separates the best of friends.” (Prov. 16:28) So, let’s not be taken up with the lips of talkers who are ambassadors of flattery or deceit. Let’s admonish them in the act and encourage others not to listen lest they believe their report. “He who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter.” (Prov. 11:13b) If only whispering saints would heed the Word of the Lord and repent, “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.” (Eph. 4:29) May we all be conduits of the sweet words of grace!

© 2009 Shepherd Talk, Bill Randall. All rights reserved.