It’s amazing how spiritual slander can sound when it starts with, “Bless her heart, but…” or “I just thought you should pray about this…”
Suddenly, Sister So-and-So’s private meltdown is getting broadcast like a weather alert — except instead of radar, it’s all hearsay.
James 1:26 puts it bluntly:
“If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.”
Worthless. Not “misguided” or “slightly off.” Worthless.
If you have to preface your “prayer request” with, “Now don’t tell anyone I said this,” you’ve already crossed the border into the land of Sanctified Gossip, population: you.
Prayer isn’t a networking opportunity. God’s not up there thinking, “You know, I’d move in this situation, but first I need the full backstory on what she said to her cousin at the baby shower.”
The next time you’re tempted to share someone else’s private mess, try this: Don’t. Instead, say, “God, you know exactly what’s going on. Please move in their life.” Done. Heaven got the memo without your commentary.
I find painting so relaxing and overall beneficial to my wellbeing.
I\’ve always believed that I have no talent for painting. However this myth got busted once I picked up the brush!