Well, I've had this posted for about 10 days and have had one response - Georgia - do you have your opinion ready yet? No one else has been brave enough to respond.(or haven't read this) So I'll just put in my two cents.
I agree that gossip is a problem and most of what the article says about the cause of it. However, I think there is more of a solution. I'm more inclined to think a true cleansing of the sin of gossip will come from 1 John 1:9 - if we confess our sins, HE is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. The desire and enjoyment of gossip comes from our flesh - no matter what root we try to pull out or fix or change, or whatever, only the cleasing of sin from the Lamb of God will remove it from us. He is in heaven seated on the right hand of God making intercession to God for us. Our enemy -- the accuser -- is there accusing us of factual and true sins. But as we confess our sins, Christ intercedes with the Father and those sins too are forgiven and we are cleansed.
This may be a process rather than a one time event because God desires truth in the inward man. We need to see the truth of what we are and God will do whatever is necessary to bring it totally to the surface -- even leave us with the effects of it for a while -- until our confession is truly an agonizing cry to HIM - "who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ my Lord."
And that's my two cents. I probably have about a quarter's worth more and after I think about it I may add that too.
1 comment:
As far as my definition of gossip, it starts with the sharing of negative information. You don't have to look around and see who's listening when you're speaking kindly about someone.
There are times when things of a negative nature will need to be discussed, but the rub becomes in how much needs to be shared and what the true intent of our hearts are. There is a very fine line, in my opinion, and if you are getting some sort of personal satisifaction from sharing information or receiving that information, I think it's safe to say that the line has been crossed.
One of the ways that I try to combat this is to refrain from asking questions. Most people I know won't just come right up and drop a juicy morsel unbidden. They will, however, answer questions if you ask.
From my own experience, it really hurts when you think you're sharing something personal with someone and they tell you "that's what I heard".
This is so hard...I think not talking at all has its benefits...
Post a Comment