"Brief Devotions For Busy Lives" by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson: Proverbs 16:27-30

 February 25

"A wicked scoundrel digs up evil, and his slander is like a scorching fire. A perverse person spreads dissension, and a gossip separates the closest friends. A violent person entices his neighbor and leads him down a path that is terrible. The one who winks his eyes devises perverse things, and one who compresses his lips brings about evil." -Proverbs 16:27-30 (NET)

Evil is not a popular word. Yet Proverbs reminds us of a deeper truth in today's text when it says lying is a violent action. Lying and slander are often more harmful and lasting than physical wounds. Lying and gossiping are vicious. Whether its source is from politicians, friends, neighbors, or government officials, the effects can be as permanent as those of a stab wound. Lies and gossip rip apart relationships. Making up or spreading false reports were strictly forbidden by God throughout the Bible. Gossip, slander, and false statements can destroy both friendships and nations. They undermine families, strain neighborhood harmony, destroy churches, ruin lives, and create chaos in our justice system. Destructive lies and gossip are devastating for those who are its victims. Yet lies also destroy the integrity, reputation, and soul of those who engage in it. Lies are gender neutral as both men and women initiate gossip and lies. Yet even if you don't initiate a lie, you become responsible if you pass it along. Don't circulate gossip, rumors, or lies. By speaking truth, you can squelch or sometimes even stop lies and gossip. What can you do if you hear a lie or gossip?

1. Confront offenders with truth and facts.

2. Speak truth to power. If offenders are public officials, you can use social media or preferably letters to correct lies.

3. Don't spread lies or gossip to others. Let it stop with you.

4. Check for truth before repeating controversial claims.

Rumors and hearsay are tantalizing and can be exciting to hear. They may make us feel like insiders, but they tear people down. God wants us to build people up and confront evil wherever it is!

Prayer: God, Grant me courage to confront lies Amen.

Meditation For The Day: Gossip can cease with a firm "Stop it"!

Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Winter Renewal Paperback – November 25, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)