Are you a gossip spreader?

He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.
Proverbs 17:9 New International Version

THOUGHTS ABOUT TODAY’S VERSE…
Unfortunately a “gossip spreader” is like a farm manure spreader, it spreads feces, stench and odor everywhere it goes.
“It’s just a little harmless gossip.” The Wise Teacher (Jesus) reminds us that gossip is neither little nor harmless. It is a tool of the Devil, used to bring strife, contention, and division to all. Its consequences are huge and its damage horrible and everlasting. Gossip will destroy relationships faster than anything else can. Instead, it is much better to be a peacemaker and an offense-mender. Do you love your brother / sister with the God kind of love? Do you love your enemy as you love yourself? Help them put any offense to rest then. Show forth the God kind of love and do not repeat gossip, instead cover it with God’s Love. Pray for those who abuse and harm you.

MY PRAYER…
Father of Glory, I confess that I am often more a peace lover than a peacemaker. Give me the strength and want to, Lord develop in me the character not to repeat gossip, but instead to have the wisdom and strength to be an offense-mender. Help me Lord to have the same compassion for people that You have. Through the Prince of Peace, my Lord Jesus, I pray.
Amen