What are practical ways to guard against "spreading slander" in conversations? The Foundational Verse “ ‘You shall not go about spreading slander among your people.’ ” (Leviticus 19:16) What Scripture Calls Slander • False or damaging reports (Proverbs 10:18) • Half-truths that leave a misleading impression (Exodus 20:16) • Repeating unverified stories (Exodus 23:1) • Whispered gossip that injures reputations (2 Corinthians 12:20) Why Guarding Our Tongue Matters • Slander breaks God’s explicit command (Leviticus 19:16). • It aligns us with the “accuser” (Revelation 12:10). • Words wield life or death (Proverbs 18:21). • A slanderer destroys friendships and churches (Proverbs 16:28; Titus 3:10-11). Practical Heart Checks Before Speaking • Am I about to convey something I have not personally verified? • Would I say these words if the person were present? • Is my motive love or self-promotion (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)? • Does this comment build up the listener (Ephesians 4:29)? Conversation Filters That Stop Slander Cold T – True: “Is it factually accurate?” H – Helpful: “Will it benefit the listener or the person spoken of?” I – Inspiring: “Does it point others toward Christlike thinking?” N – Necessary: “Must this be said right now?” K – Kind: “Can I phrase it with gentleness?” Daily Habits to Protect Your Speech • Begin your day with Psalm 141:3, asking the Lord to “set a guard over my mouth.” • Keep short accounts—confess stray words immediately (1 John 1:9). • Read a proverb a day; note every verse on the tongue. • Limit media sources that thrive on rumors. • Surround yourself with friends who model godly speech (1 Corinthians 15:33). When Others Start to Slander • Redirect: “Let’s pray for them instead.” • Question: “Have you spoken to that person directly?” (Matthew 18:15). • Refocus: Share a positive truth about the individual. • Excuse yourself politely if the conversation continues in gossip. Scriptures to Memorize for Quick Recall • Proverbs 11:13 — “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.” • Ephesians 4:31 — “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, and slander, along with every form of malice.” • James 1:19 — “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” Guarding against slander is not a one-time fix; it is a Spirit-empowered choice made moment by moment. Let God’s Word saturate your heart, and your conversations will follow. |
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