13 Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also gossips and busybodies, saying things they ought not to.
There are things that just shouldn’t be said! I’m not talking about foul language or curse words, I am talking about stories and gossip about other people. Some things are just nobody else’s business, and need to be kept private and not turned into ‘prayer’ requests. I think we have all fallen into this trap at times in our lives. Either we were the one doing the talking or we were attentively listening in, encouraging every detail. But as this verse points out, younger widows had too much time on their hands. They did not have the responsibilities of other women in that society. They had no household, no husband to maintain. Their lives began to revolve around themselves and their friends. They become unproductive in their circle of influence. And the outcome was a gradual slipping into destructive conversations aimed at building themselves up by tearing others down. What a waste of energy and time. We are to be about the business of Jesus-work, building each other up, encouraging our faith walk and expression, coming together to further God’s plan in more people’s lives. Paul’s words of instruction dealing with younger widows can give us some correction in our own lives, if we are willing to listen. Do you know how to politely stop a gossip conversation someone else has started? Do you know how to back out of a conversation that has turned sour? When was the last time you did this? If it is more than one gossipy conversation ago, then a refresher course is needed. Maybe the installation of a stronger backbone! This is a very hard thing to do the first few times you attempt it. You will probably even get some strange looks and you might become the topic of the conversation after you leave, but it is a freeing obedience. We can also use our influence to steer conversations away from these topics. Use a quick change of subject when you hear the conversation turning toward gossip. Or, before the topic gets too in depth you could say something like, “maybe we shouldn’t be talking about this” and then move on to some more pleasant topic. Yes, it will be awkward, but living for Jesus is awkward. Be awkward this week.
The Arnold Journey 