AUGUST 18, Proverbs 11:13

Everyone in Soo San’s class does not like Mike. Mike is big and burly, bigger than most of his classmates. But that is not the reason they do not like him. Why doesn’t the class like him? He likes to tease people saying so-and-so is a ‘shorty’, another a “fatty”. Sometimes he sticks his leg out on purpose to try to trip someone. Soo San is fed up with Mike’s nonsense and decides to take revenge…

“Soo San told me that Mike’s mum is ugly and fat,” remarks Eddie. Mandy responds, “That is what I heard too. She weighs 89 kg. She is short too. She must look like a hippo!” “She must have got that big after giving birth to Mike. Look how BIG Mike is, hahaha!” says Johnny with his two arms slightly curved by his side gesturing fatness. Now a small group of the classmates is starting to gather round Soo San and they are all laughing irresponsibly.

What exactly are these children doing? Gossiping. It is saying mean things about another person. What damage can gossip do? A story was told as follows:

A young man told others mean things about an old man. When the old man found out, he led the young man to the top of a tower. Under one arm, the old man had a pillow. At the top, where the wind was blowing at their faces, he handed the young man the pillow and asked him to rip it open. He did as he was told. Instantly the wind carried the feathers tossing them every which way and spreading far and wide. The young man was then asked to collect all the feathers back. Dear children, what do you think the young man said? Do you think it is possible to gather all the feathers back? So, in the same manner, it is impossible to take back the terrible effects of gossip.

Thought: I should control my tongue or it will control me!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for reminding me of the damage that gossip can cause. Help me to remember today’s lesson. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen