A person is never more like Satan then when they lie (Which includes gossip and slander). Few things hurt people than what others say about them that are embellishments, half truths, or outright lies (Gossip). You know because it has happened to you hasn’t it?
From Bobby Gilstrap: “A gossip is a person who creates the smoke in which other people assume there’s a fire.” Just because someone says something does not make it true, and… just because something is true does not mean you have to or need to repeat it. So keep in mind, if someone will talk to you about someone else, they WILL talk to someone else about you! And don’t forget that everyone you tell something to has a best friend who they talk to who also has a best friend they talk to… and on and on…
To know what is in a person’s heart (Including our own), listen to what is said. It will either build up or tear down, be good or evil. After making that determination you will have discerned what is in the heart (Lk 6:45). Only fools engage in gossip and slander. Yet know as a Christian, you will be subjected to words set on the fires of hell (2 Cor 6:8; 1 Pet 4:4, Ja 3:6).
I agree with Mr. Gilstrap, “A gossip is a person who creates the smoke in which other people assume there’s a fire.” So the best way to deal with a gossip is… 1) Turn the other cheek, 2) Live a holy life, 3) Pray for those who persecute you {Those who slander you and gossip about you}, 4) Do good to those who put a knife in your back. Why? Because of who you are… a child of God. “Whatever happens, conduct YOURSELF in a manner that glorifies God” (Philippians 1:27). Here are a few more passages to consider…
Ro 12:18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Lev 19:16 You shall not go around as a slanderer among your people, and you shall not stand up against the life of your neighbor: I am the Lord.
Pr 11:13 Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered.
Pr 20:19 Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a simple babbler.