Gossip can seem harmless, but the Bible reminds us that our words hold great power. Gossip can damage relationships, spread falsehoods, and create division. Thankfully, Scripture provides clear guidance on avoiding harmful talk and using our words to uplift others. These Bible verses about gossip will help you understand its consequences and encourage you to speak with kindness, truth, and love.
1. Proverbs 16:28
“A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.”
Gossip is divisive and can destroy friendships, leading to conflict and broken relationships.
2. Proverbs 11:13
“A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.”
Gossips can’t be trusted with sensitive information, but reliable individuals know how to protect confidences.
3. Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up.”
Our words should uplift and encourage, not tear down or spread harmful rumors.
4. Proverbs 26:20
“Without wood a fire goes out; without a gossip a quarrel dies down.”
Gossip fuels conflict, but avoiding it can bring peace and stop unnecessary arguments.
5. Proverbs 20:19
“A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.”
The Bible advises us to avoid those who frequently gossip because they often betray trust.
6. Psalm 34:13
“Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.”
Gossip is often linked to lies or distortions, and the Bible instructs us to avoid both.
7. Proverbs 18:8
“The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts.”
Gossip can seem appealing or interesting, but it leaves a deep, negative impact on those involved.
8. Romans 1:29
“They have become filled with every kind of wickedness… They are gossips.”
Paul lists gossip among sinful behaviors that show a lack of godliness and righteousness.
9. James 4:11
“Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law.”
Speaking negatively or gossiping about others is equivalent to judging them, which violates God’s law of love.
10. 2 Corinthians 12:20
“For I am afraid that when I come I may not find you as I want… there may be quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, factions, slander, gossip.”
Paul warns the Corinthian church about the destructive behaviors that can arise from gossip and division
11. 1 Thessalonians 4:11
“Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business.”
The Bible advises focusing on living peacefully and avoiding meddling in others’ affairs, which often leads to gossip.
12. Ephesians 5:4
“Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place.”
Gossip is often categorized under foolish or harmful talk, which believers are urged to avoid.
13. Proverbs 26:22
“The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts.”
Gossip may seem irresistible, but its effects are deep and damaging to relationships and reputations.
14. 1 Peter 3:10
“Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech.”
Loving life and experiencing God’s blessings involves guarding your words from gossip and deceit.
15. Proverbs 12:18
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
Gossip can harm like a weapon, while wise words can heal and restore relationships.
16. Proverbs 10:19
“Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.”
Sometimes, saying less is wise, as speaking too much—including gossip—can lead to sin.
17. 1 Corinthians 13:6
“Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.”
True love finds joy in truth, not in gossip or the harm it can bring to others.
Prayer for Someone Struggling with Gossip
Dear Heavenly Father,
I lift up [Name] to You, asking for Your help in guarding their words and protecting their heart from gossip. Your Word in Proverbs 11:13 says, “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.” Help [Name] to become someone who uses their words to uplift and encourage, not to tear others down or spread harmful talk.
Grant them wisdom to know when to speak and when to stay silent. Guide their heart to seek truth and love in every conversation, and help them build trust in their relationships.
In Jesus’ name, I pray,
Amen.
