Expert: Carl Fuglein - 12/8/2007

Question
Hey, im 13 an go to an all girls school so as you can imagine, there is always loads of gossip going round. Is gossip wrong in the eyes of God?? I try to be a good christian but im constantly around people who gossip. Is is wrong???

Answer
Hi Jo-

I think you already answered your own question - if you have to ask if it's wrong, then it's almost always wrong.  The big thing about gossip is to try to define it - if you're just talking about your friends with no intent to harm anyone, and what you say is not false, not unkind, then I think you're just talking.  But as soon as you say something that is false, or even if it COULD be false (i.e., if you didn't see it or hear it yourself), and/or if it's mean or unkind, that's gossip, and it is indeed wrong in the eyes of God.

Here's some scriptures for you to consider:

(Psa 140:3 NLT)  Their tongues sting like a snake; the poison of a viper drips from their lips. Interlude

(Prov 11:9 NLT)  Evil words destroy one's friends; wise discernment rescues the godly.

(Psa 59:12 NLT)  Because of the sinful things they say, because of the evil that is on their lips, let them be captured by their pride, their curses, and their lies.

(Prov 10:11 NLT)  The words of the godly lead to life; evil people cover up their harmful intentions.

So, Jo, just ask yourself:

Is it true?

Is it kind?

Is it beneficial to all parties?

If yes, then it's not gossip.  If no, then it probably is.  Just use your common sense.

Thanks for writing, and please take the time to rate my answer.

hugs,
Carl