1 Timothy 5:13 (New International Version)
Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going
about from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also
busybodies who talk nonsense, saying things they ought not to.
In 1861, soon after Lincoln’s inauguration, a large
Republican delegation from California visited the White House. Their purpose in
meeting with the President was to complain about a friend of Lincoln’s, Senator
Edward D. Baker of Oregon. The delegation claimed that Senator Baker was
interfering with appointments in California and his attempt, as they claim, to
foist corrupt and broken-down politicians of doubtful antecedents upon the
administration and the people of the Golden State. Some of the Californians
sought to assail both the public and private character of Senator Baker.
This angered Lincoln and he vehemently defended his
friend. Lincoln’s wrath on the delegation was in short that he would not permit
anyone to gossip about Baker in his presence; and if they intended to persuade
Lincoln, they would have to do it without character assassination. The result
was that the charges against Senator Baker were summarily withdrawn and the
delegation apologized for their accusations.
Gossip is a sin. We need to avoid it all cost. Today when
we go to our prayer times let’s confess any sin of gossip and seek to only
build up others in Jesus Christ.
Dear Lord we pray today that we will keep our hearts and
minds away from gossip. We pray that we would instead find ways that we can
build people up so that they can see Your love through us. In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
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