August 7
Psalm 101:5
W hoso privily slandereth his neighbour, him will I cut off: him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer.
Bess was the blight of the bridge club. For some unknown reason, she had taken it upon herself to be judge and jury over the actions of her friends. Whenever the women got together for cards, they were treated to Bess's opinion of what everyone else was doing wrong. When anyone got tired of hearing what Bess had to say and tried to back away, she became Bess's next target of attack. People were afraid to be friends with her, and they were even more afraid to not be friends with her.
No one likes to hear gossip and criticism all the time. Gossips are usually avoided, and thus they become outcast from the rest of the world. God will outcast the gossip. There is not room in His Kingdom for those who delight in the shortcomings of others. Christ within us should build up, not tear down. If we give our hearts over to Christ, then we ill never say damaging things against our neighbors. Speak only with the tongue of Christ, and you will be a blessing to everyone you meet.
Prayer: Remove from me a malicious and gossiping nature, Lord. Fill me with praise and joy and spiritual thoughts. Let my words bless others with kindness and love. Amen.
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