The Law in 90 Days: Genesis 41-42
SCRIPTURE READING
Proverbs 20:19 (ESV); Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets; therefore do not
associate with a simple babbler.
This verse is more popularly known as “A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks
too much.” Gossip and slander are major issues in the church. It is one of those areas where we
Christians show little difference from the rest of the world.
These sins often stem from a place of insecurity. When we demean others, we are automatically
exalting ourselves. Most people are fooled by this underhanded self-gratification and take the
first opportunity to join in on the gossip session; but the wise person sees through the façade and
keeps silent, knowing that anything she says may be turned against her in her comrade’s next
opportunity to natter. We would be wise to think sensibly before joining in with gossip: If this person
is gossiping to me, they will likely gossip about me also. It is foolish to trust a gossiper and foolish
to be a gossiper.
But it is so easy to gossip. In our noisy society, we shrink away from silence. We feel awkward
without sound; even a power outage is “eerie.” But silence is a good thing. Thumper, the little
bunny in Bambi, coined a proverb when he said, “If you can’t say somethin’ nice, don’t say
nothin’ at all.” Sometimes silence is the best thing. God cares more about your integrity than your
discomfort.
PRAYER and MEDITATION
1. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you instances of gossip and slander that you need to confess.
2. Ask God to show you the root of your gossip and slander problems. When and why do you
resort to starting, and participating in gossip? How can you deal with the root problem?
3. Ask God how He wants to grow you in integrity. If you are willing, tell Him that you desire to
change at all costs, even if it means feeling awkward. Pray that you would be faithful in the
testing.
4. Commit to a day (at least) of media silence this next week: no TV, movies or music. Include,
as part of your “noise fast,” an hour-long slot of personal silence. Just sit silently in God’s
presence, without an agenda, focussing completely on Him.
