July 4
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Fire goes out without wood and quarrels disappear when gossip stops.
– Proverbs 26:20 (NLT)
ON STOPPING GOSSIPS
A poem and essay by ILMA
Whenever we talk about others who are not around
It is easy speak on and on and and go out of bound
Just like fire goes without wood, we don’t need to chatter
Don’t discuss things that are ungodly or evil matters.
Speak only what is true, honorable, pure and encouraging
Do not share ungodly or toxic thoughts; they are damaging
Find time to pray for those who spread rumors and engage in babbles
The Lord will shut their mouths so they can’t bring more troubles.
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I grew up surrounded with extended family talking about those who are not around to hear it. I don’t think they realize the harm that they are causing when they criticize or make fun of those who are not there to defend themselves or concoct lies to kill the character of others. This sin is one of those that God freed me from when I became a born again Christian. It was a stronghold in our family. It is like a normal thing to talk and criticize someone who isn’t around. I used to wonder why the adults around me never get to tell the person themselves what they talk about to others. The bible says that when we stop gossips, quarrel stops. It fuels conflicts.
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PRAYER
Lord, please help me never to engage or listen to gossip.
REFLECTION
What are the dangers of gossip?
For more testimonials about God’s word, please go to YouTube and type ILMA’s poem devotional or go to www.ilmaarts.com posts. To receive emails of my poem devotionals, email me at ILMA.ARTS.STUDIO@gmail.com