Proverbs 18:8 NLT  //  Rumors are dainty morsels that sink deep into one’s heart.

Everything that is said must be true.

Not everything that is true must be said.

Who does gossip hurt?

1. Gossip hurts the person it's spoken about.

Proverbs 16:28 NLT  //  A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends.

2. Gossip hurts the listener.

Proverbs 17:4 NLT  //  Wrongdoers eagerly listen to gossip; liars pay close attention to slander.

3. Gossip hurts the speaker.

Proverbs 25:9-10 NLT  //  When arguing with your neighbor, don’t betray another person’s secret. Others may accuse you of gossip, and you will never regain your good reputation.

How do we control gossip?

1. Guard your ears.

Why are you telling me this?

Have you had a chance to talk to them about this?

Matthew 18:15 NLT  //  If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back.

Proverbs 20:19 NLT  //  A gossip goes around telling secrets, so don’t hang around with chatterers.

2. Close your mouth.

Proverbs 21:23 NLT  //  Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.