Description

 Resisting Gossip – Part 3: Responding to Gossip (chapters 7-8)
The reality is that we all will be gossiped about ~ can be quite painful. Below are some reasons why:

•  Gossip is a betrayal (form of treason) – Psalm 55:12-14
•  Gossip can leave us feeling vulnerable – Psalm 55:4-8
• Gossip steals our reputation – Proverbs 22:1 – “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”
  The question is, how are we to respond when people gossip or slander us? In faith and in love First, responding in faith:

 Psalms can be so helpful ~ Psalm 140:1-13 is a good example [principles drawn from this Psalm]

• 1. Take it to the Lord (140:1-2)
•  Tell it like it is (vs.3)
•  Remember to whom you are talking (vs.6-8)

2. Ask God for Justice (Psalm 140:8-11)
3. Believe that God Will Answer (Psalm 140:12-13)

Second, responding in love

• Love our enemies – Matthew 5:43-47
• Love is active – 1 Corinthians 13:4-8

Four practical and biblical love-in-action response when we find ourselves the target of gossip:

1. Pray (Matthew 5:44; Philippians 1:9-11)
2. Overlook (Proverbs 19:11) ~ kind of a one-sided forgiving
3. Confront (Matthew 18:15-20). A few questions to keep in mind before you confront someone who has been gossiping about you

•  Is it true?
•  What can I learn from this?
• Should I defend myself?
• Can I rejoice in this

4. Repay Evil with Good (1 Peter 3:9-12; 1 Corinthians 4:10, 12-13)

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