People to Avoid

We like to have friends. We like to have conversations.

But we have to be picky about both of them.

Sometimes it's in the church foyer.

Sometimes it's over the phone.

Sometimes it's over a cup of coffee at McDonald's.

Sometimes it's an online chat.

And sometimes we enjoy hearing it.

We listen to what others are saying about someone else. Our intent is not to figure out how to help the third person. Not even in prayer.

We just want to hear what's going on.

We like the gossip.

And sometimes we're the giver, not the receiver.

Proverbs 20:19 warns, "Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a simple babbler."

Stay away from those who are constantly babbling about others. They may be talking about others, but they are revealing their own hearts.

And the more their heart spills over into yours, the more you will become like them.

Watch your words and watch your friends' words.