THE SWINGING PENDULUM
I get it. It’s been abused. Touch not God’s anointed. 1 Chronicles 16:22 and Psalm 105:15 have been misused too many times to number. Christians, especially faulty Christian leaders, who’ve overstepped their bounds and don’t want to take responsibly for their mistakes love this verse. Because so many have acknowledged the error in this, the pendulum has swung to the other end, and now most reject the kingdom principle of honor altogether. However, when we react out of frustration to error, we most often step into error on the other end of the spectrum.
The number one reason gossip is so enticing in our society is because we have lost honor. Though our world seems to be rejecting this crucial principle, God is not; and when we participate in dishonor, especially through gossip, God doesn’t take it lightly. Take a minute to read Numbers 12, you’ll find the story of Aaron and Miriam dishonoring the servant of the Lord, Moses, and they did so at a high price. Here are three ways gossip will affect you the way it affected them:
The number one reason gossip is so enticing in our society is because we have lost honor. Share on X-
God’s presence will depart.
“The Lord was very angry with them, and he departed” Numbers 12:9 NLT.
You cannot violate God’s principles and walk in God’s presence. You’ll either do it His way and create a habitation for Him, or you’ll do it your way and dismiss His presence in your life.
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Your sin will be exposed.
“As the cloud moved from above the Tabernacle, there stood Miriam, her skin as white as snow from leprosy” Numbers 12:10 NLT.
Sin throughout the Bible is often depicted as leprosy. God is awfully gracious to us. However, there is a line. I know in this day (where we celebrate thin-skinned Christianity and dismiss anything that isn’t covered in sugar) this isn’t popular but here’s the reality – if you don’t heed God’s warnings, because He loves you, He’ll allow your “leprosy” to be exposed. Sin that could have been dealt with privately will be seen publicly. Heed His warning!
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You cut yourself off from community.
“So Miriam was kept outside the camp for seven days, and the people waited until she was brought back before they traveled again” Numbers 12:15 NLT.
The call of the New Testament is “Come!” We are in the age of grace! Hallelujah! However, when you participate in gossip and dishonor, you are driving a wedge between yourself, the community, and the leaders God destined for you to be a part of. It is a self-inflicted wound!
GIVE GOSSIP NO PLACE
If you’ve ever spoken in a way that violates the kingdom principle of honor – repent! Give no place to gossip in your life! Do as Aaron did and say, “Oh, my master! Please don’t punish us for this sin we have so foolishly committed.” Confess that what you’ve done is foolish and never take that path again. God is merciful, so repent of your sin and run into His arms of grace!
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Caleb and Ali live in East Tennessee where they serve at The Lift Church. With boldness and conviction, their deepest desire is to see the church revived and the world awakened. Learn more about The Lift by visiting theliftchurch.tv.
