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What Does the Bible Say About Gossiping?

Scripture reveals that gossip destroys trust, fractures relationships, and reveals a heart that isn't submitted to God's authority over the tongue.

Scripture on Gossiping

Proverbs 20:19 Old Testament
"A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret."
Proverbs 16:28 Old Testament
"A perverse person stirs up conflict and separates close friends."
1 Timothy 5:13 New Testament
"Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also busybodies who talk nonsense, saying things they ought not to."
James 1:26 New Testament
"Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion amounts to nothing."
Ephesians 4:29 New Testament
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."
The Bottom Line
Your words either build the kingdom or tear it down—there is no neutral ground with gossip.
Try Today

When you're tempted to share something about someone else today, pause and ask: 'Would I say this if they were in the room?' If the answer is no, stay silent.

Prayer

Jesus invites us to bring our struggles to Him, especially the ones we hide (Matthew 11:28).

Father, my tongue has power I often don't respect. I've spoken about others in ways that tore down instead of built up, and I've treated secrets like currency to spend. I feel the pull to talk about people—to be included, to feel important, to process my frustration. But You see how my words have damaged trust and broken friendships. Change my heart. Make me someone people can confide in without fear. Give me wisdom to know when to speak and the courage to stay silent when I should. Help me honor others with my words the way Christ honored me.

📚 Read Proverbs 10-15 for more on how our words shape our lives and relationships.

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