Stopping the Gossip

Stopping the Gossip

Hoo Doo is like Voo Doo

When you gossip about what “who do”

You cast a negative spell on them.

Stay off the Who Do trail!

Paul gives specific instructions

on how to handle those who

do not follow his instructions.

One of those instructions

in the letters to the Thessalonians

concerns those who live an idle life…

The unproductive person.

The person who has so much time

on their hands,

they can get into the business

of everybody else.

They are the ones who criticize

the way others do things.

They think they know a better way.

They want to look good,

at the expense of others.

Think about it…

most comedians make their living criticizing

and finding fault with others.

We laugh and think that is great entertainment.

Being a busybody is an art form

that destroys relationships.

It is the painting of two pictures.

One of a person who can’t do things right

(according to their standard)

and their listeners should be concerned.

The other picture

 is self-portrait of a “wiser than”.

These pictures are painted

in the work lunch room, dinner table,

prayer meeting, just to name a few.

So what is Paul’s advice

when we come across

the busybody, the meddler,

the gossiping person?

Two simple points…

·       Don’t consider them an enemy

·       Don’t attack them with criticism

          and gossip to others about them

Just walk away –

Let them know you don’t

want to hear it! 

Scripture Reading

2 Thessalonians 3:11-15 NIV

11 We hear that some among you are idle.

They are not busy;

they are busybodies.

12 Such people we command

and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ

to settle down

and earn the bread they eat.

13 And as for you, brothers,

never tire of doing what is right.

14 If anyone does not obey

our instruction in this letter,

take special note of him.

Do not associate with him,

in order that he may feel ashamed.

15 Yet do not regard him as an enemy,

but warn him as a brother.