Text: Numbers 12:1-16
Title: The Destructive Power of Gossip 

Gossip: Idle talk about someone not present that foolishly or maliciously spreads false rumors or facts. 

Everything said must be true. Not everything true must be said. 

Gossip says I am strong when others are weak. 

Gossip hurts: 
1) The one spoken about. 
2) The one speaking. 
    - Gossip says more about the person speaking than it does about the person being spoken about. 
3) Everyone who listens. 

Summary: Gossip hurts everyone involved and reveals the selfish, self-justification deep in our hearts. 

Gossip says I am strong when others are weak. The gospel says when I am weak, God is strong. 

Practical tips for overcoming gossip: 
1) Ask, why are you telling me this? 
2) Ask would I want someone sharing this about me? 
3) How can I speak life into this person being gossiped about?