WOW!

"An evildoer listens to wicked lips, and a liar gives ear to a mischievous tongue." (Prov. 17:4)

Wow. When I read a verse like that I get the distinct impression that God is as displeased with people listening to gossip, backbiting, tales and discouraging words as He is with those who are doing the talking. We sometimes think we are innocent if we are not the one spreading the story. But we are just as guilty for listening.

If I am only to speak words of praise to God, witness to the world, and encouragement to believers, then God must expect me to only listen to the same. When we participate in listening, we are joining in league with satan as he seeks to divide the body of Christ. Today, determine to repent of all the times you have listened to discouraging and degrading words about others. Determine that you are going to stop it. When someone calls, or writes, or stops you along the way to say things that are inappropriate, challenge them to stop and get it right with others.

Jesus said in Matthew, Mark, and Luke, that a kingdom divided against itself will not stand. How can we impact a lost and dying world unless our words are filled with kindness and grace? Today, ask yourself if you are a participant by listening. Let God change this about His people. Amen.