Whether it’s at the kitchen refrigerator water dispenser or the workplace water cooler, we would do well to remember the woman at the well. Even though Jesus’ own Jewish culture did not usually associate with Samaritans, He went out of His way to reach out to the Samaritan woman, offering her Living Water (John 4). He didn’t condemn her, even though her past and current choices of circumstance were less than sterling. He met her with a heart of compassion and salvation. Are we not to model His love for others in this way?   

I love Romans 2:1, which essentially asks us, “Why to you judge others when you yourself commit the same sins?” 

God forgets our sins once they’re forgiven. Are we not to keep our eyes on the Lord, not look to our past? Are we not all sinners saved by grace?

Through God’s grace, I have forgiven this woman and prayed for the dismantling of the malicious spirit that hides behind a pretty mask. But no doubt, the temptation to gossip will come again, perhaps next time in a more subtle way. Next time you’re confronted with a “little” gossip – at work, at church, or among your friends - what will you do?

This article was originally published on Crosswalk Women in March 2008.