Gossip is dangerous and poisonous to our relationships. Learn what to watch out for and what it takes to avoid being a gossip.
Talking Points:
- Gossip is when we speak to someone who is neither a part of the problem or a part of a solution about someone who is not present.
- There are 7 reasons why gossip is so poisonous:
- It feeds our own sense of superiority as we feel good about ourselves at the expense of someone else.
- It sows distrust amongst your team or family. After all, what might you be saying about them when they’re not around.
- It harms your spiritual witness. We should care about others and treat them in a manner that honors Jesus.
- It destroys your integrity. You can’t be honest and fair while also being a gossip.
- It harms or ends relationships because gossip is hurtful and destructive.
- It ruins reputations when you gossip about someone, especially if you are speaking untruths about someone else.
- It will come back to hurt you. There are always consequences when gossip occurs.
- 3 ways to avoid gossip:
- Determine if what you’re doing is gossip. If the person you’re talking to has no role to play in problem or solution, stop.
- Stop it when you hear it. Redirect the conversation or tell the person who is gossiping that you’re uncomfortable with the direction of the conversation.
- Be an advocate. Stick up for the person who is being gossiped about.
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Share a time gossip really hurt you or someone close to you.
- Share your own definition of gossip. What are some key elements that you feel must be present to make it gossip?
- Why can it be hard to discern what is or isn’t gossip?
- Review the list of 7 things that make gossip poisonous. Which ones stand out most to you and why?
- Read Proverbs 16:23-24. How is gossip unwise? How can you be better about the words you choose to speak?
- Read Proverbs 16:28. How will you keep gossip from being a part of your team or family dynamic?
- Review the 3 ways to avoid gossip. How will you incorporate each one into your life?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
