Pile of Ashes

“Where no wood is the fire goeth out . . .” (Proverbs 26:20)

The flames’ glow and warmth from the burning wood in the fireplace not only took the chill from the room but brought a sense of serenity, a warm peace. By bedtime, the stack of logs had burned down to only ashes. We placed large, chunky logs on the grate, hoping they would heat overnight and ignite quickly in the morning. The next day, to my surprise, only ashes remained. What happened? As I poked in the ashes, hiding underneath the residue were red-hot embers—waiting for an opportunity to ignite.

Some people wait for prime moments to drop choice words for igniting juicy conversations. Many comments aren’t necessary with at least one willing listener. This mix will achieve the intended purpose: spread rumors and stir people's emotions whether the gossip is true. Gossipers and gossip-receivers who pass along such conversations are character-slayers and sow discord. Scripture likens such people to broken pieces of a clay pot dipped in contaminated silver (v. 23). The “prettiness” and “smooth talk” of gossip come from damaged containers with tainted intentions.

How can we stop talebearers? Turn away from their enticing words. Choose to put the fire out before it begins. By doing so, you may cause them to rethink their actions, and they repent. The end of verse twenty says: “And where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.”