We do not provide counseling services of any kind. Contact your local domestic abuse shelter, dial 9-1-1, or reach out to a trusted friend/organization.

God and Gossip

by | Sep 13, 2024 | Article | 0 comments

Last month we talked about the importance of talking to individuals separately. If bullying is happening in a marriage, there is no way to hear the truth with both of them in the same room at the same time.

However, many pastors and people helpers cry, “Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!” when an individual shares suffering that results from another’s sin. They may call it, “gossip,” and refuse to listen.

Refusing to listen to those who are hurting is not God-like. God does not shut us down or zap us with lightning each time we complain and lament. He is not threatened by human pain and confusion;  He addresses it from one cover of the Bible to the other. The impact of sin is true. It is a reality that exposes unrighteousness. And it affects each one of us.

Instead of shutting us down, God invites us to come to Him. Psalm 62:8 says, “…pour out your hearts before him. God is our refuge.” This was true for David and King Saul, the Old Testament prophets, and Jesus. Each was tormented by sinful men. Each cried out to the Lord and spoke to others, warning them, lamenting, and pleading for help.

Our first spring in the Midwest, a tornado came within miles of our home. Afterward, we took a drive, amazed at the damage. I will never forget the 2-story yellow house, windows broken, doors ajar, curtains and household goods blown and scattered in a northeast path across empty fields. In the same way that house was ravaged by wind and rain, an individual’s life may be ravaged by the sinful effects of another.

Sharing this suffering is not gossip. It is important to recognize and understand the hidden realities of differentials and punishment so we can ask questions, gather information, and look for patterns, even if it’s uncomfortable. Expect a sufferer to talk about evil. This is not gossip, or sharing with evil intent. We must remember that speaking about evil is different than speaking evil.* 

As we follow God’s example, we open the door to truth. We listen and ask questions to determine the needs, impact, and a godly response. God uses His people, the Body of Christ, to represent His heart, hands, and feet in this sin-cursed world of suffering. To those who cut off sufferers, God says, “The one who shuts his ears to the cry of the poor will himself also call out and not be answered” (Proverbs 21:13). We cannot determine their poverty until we enter into their suffering.

On the other hand, if it seems like both individuals are responsible for arguments or violent outbursts, you’ll want to read next months’ newsletter.

Until then, thank you for your ongoing prayers and support. We enjoy serving you!

Request Light in the Darkness Training

Donate here (via PayPal, Venmo, debit or credit card) or send gifts to:
Clarity in Action Ministries
P.O. Box 403
Iowa City, IA 52244

Sincerely,

Clarity in Action Ministries Board of Directors:  

President: Sydney MillageVice-President: Karen Miller
Treasurer: Jamie JuliusSecretary: Jessica Cox
Director: Floyd Yutzy

Like us on Facebook. Follow us on Instagram or Twitter.

* Rebecca Davis, Untwisting Scriptures that were used to tie you up, gag you, and tangle your mind: Book 3 Your Words, Your Emotions, Chapter 1.

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Related Articles

Who’s at Fault?

Who’s at Fault?

Last month we addressed the hidden factors of differentials and punishment. Here’s one woman’s story of what happened following a traditional marriage counseling session: (Trigger Warning) “It was 10:30 at night on the interstate. He pulled over. We had a concealed...

An Opportunity for You

An Opportunity for You

You may have noticed some accounts people give of their marriage situation can’t be reconciled. What you hear from one individual conflicts with what you hear from the other individual. This is typical of oppressive relationships. This is atypical of healthy...

What We’re Missing

What We’re Missing

This mid-month newsletter is an opportunity to shine light on what is happening in the realm of marital domination. All of us wish it wasn’t so. But the reality is shocking. According to research, an overwhelming majority of senior pastors (98%) say a person...

How Does Your Garden Grow?

How Does Your Garden Grow?

This mid-month newsletter is an opportunity to learn about  sin in the form of marital domination. “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption,...