Today we face situations no other generation has encountered. Some are good, and some are dangerous to our souls. One of the more subtle dangers is electronic gossip—the gossip that permeates our social media and other technologies.
Gossip is like a cancer wrapped like a gift. It breeds suspicion, distrust, and division. It destroys relationships, reputations, and unity in the Body of Christ. Whose job description is that? Satan’s. Gossip attacks love, and God is love (1 John 4:7b).
I am especially concerned about social media content created by Christians about other Christians, particularly well-known leaders and influencers. It bombards us 24/7. It has invaded our lives, and we can’t completely block it because it floods the tools we rely on—phones, TV, news, and even, at times, sermons, prayer gatherings, and Bible studies. It’s always before us. Scripture tells us that Satan is “the prince of the power of the air” (Ephesians 2:2), and that influence includes not only obvious sins but also subtle ones. We must not underestimate our adversary.
With “in‑person” gossip, we can speak up, walk away, or gently redirect the conversation toward what builds up. But electronic gossip chases us, even when we scroll past it. It demands more discipline. We need to ask God to guard our eyes and ears from what we see, hear, and read. We must keep reminding ourselves: this is gossip, it is sin, and it displeases God. Then we refocus on God’s will, our families, and our communities.
Electronic gossip is a weapon Satan uses to feed garbage into our souls. We can refuse to be used by him. Otherwise, it slowly destroys us from the inside out. Paul warned the Corinthian church to get their hearts in order and to put away gossip (2 Corinthians 12:20).
So let’s not waste precious time, heart space, or headspace. Let’s stay alert to the mission Jesus gave us. Let’s prepare for His return and become more like Him, purifying our souls, knowing He is always with us.