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marbella3 70F
2483 posts
9/20/2020 6:15 am

Last Read:
9/20/2020 10:44 am

Stopping Rumors

Bible in a Year:
Ecclesiastes 4–6

2 Corinthians
Do not spread false reports.

Exodus 23:1

Today's Scripture & Insight:

Exodus 23:1–3
After Charles Simeon (1759–1836) was named the minister of Holy Trinity Church in Cambridge, England, he faced of opposition. As most in the congregation had wanted the associate minister be appointed rather than Simeon, they spread rumors about him and rejected his ministry—even at times locking him out of the church. But Simeon, who desired be filled by God’s Spirit, sought cope with the gossip by creating some principles live by. One was never believe rumors unless they were absolutely true and another was “always believe, that if the other side were heard, a very different account would be given of the matter.”

In this practice, Simeon followed God’s instructions His people cease the gossip and malicious talk He knew would erode their love for each other. One of God’s Ten Commandments reflects His desire for them live truthfully: “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor” (Exodus 20:16). Another instruction in Exodus reinforces this commandment: “Do not spread false reports” (23:1).

Think of how different the world would be if each of us never spread rumors and false reports and if we stopped them the moment we heard them. May we rely on the Holy Spirit to help us speak the truth in love as we use our words to bring glory to God.

Reflect & Pray
What has helped you when you’ve faced opposition? How do you react when you hear gossip?

Jesus, help me to speak Your truth in love. Give me words that bring peace, grace, and encouragement.


MrsJoe 76F
17409 posts
9/20/2020 8:01 am

Sometimes, I have been bold enough to say, "I don't want to hear it.", but not as often as I should. Gossip not only hurts the one it is about, but also the one telling it because others look down on gossipers.

Be a prism, spreading God's light and love, not a mirror reflecting the world's hatred.


lilium6 74F
4498 posts
9/20/2020 2:02 pm

'Do not spread false reports' is always relevant.  False reports are designed to hurt their targets.  I don't always speak out either which leaves me feeling discomfited by my own self betrayal/cowardice - it feels ugly.  I also need to be mindful of starting rumours myself. 

Mrs J, I wanted to respond to your blog but it wouldn't allow me access. I didn't have much to do with BigBlock but I'm genuinely sorry to hear of his sudden death. He has shown he too had a fighting spirit. May he rest in peace. Amen


MrsJoe 76F
17409 posts
9/21/2020 11:09 am

    Quoting lilium6:
    'Do not spread false reports' is always relevant.  False reports are designed to hurt their targets.  I don't always speak out either which leaves me feeling discomfited by my own self betrayal/cowardice - it feels ugly.  I also need to be mindful of starting rumours myself. 

    Mrs J, I wanted to respond to your blog but it wouldn't allow me access. I didn't have much to do with BigBlock but I'm genuinely sorry to hear of his sudden death. He has shown he too had a fighting spirit. May he rest in peace. Amen

Thank you, lilium. He definitely had a fighting spirit, and had won several physical battles over the last few years. A few days before he passed away, he asked me to post a blog that he was gone, after it happened. With all the hatefulness that had been aimed at him, I didn't want to leave it open for any negative comments.

Be a prism, spreading God's light and love, not a mirror reflecting the world's hatred.


lilium6 74F
4498 posts
9/21/2020 10:55 pm

A few days before he passed away, he asked me to post a blog that he was gone, after it happened. With all the hatefulness that had been aimed at him, I didn't want to leave it open for any negative comments.

Thank you Mrs J, I understand. I would like to add I recognised BigBlock's steadfastness despite the taunts; that on the whole, he was very much a gentleman. Next time you send up a prayer to him, please give him my warm regards . My condolences to his family and friends.