Are people reluctant to share their hearts, concerns, or secrets with you? Please think through the implications of this relationship proverb. Am I known as a gossip? Have I betrayed confidences shared with me? Do I talk about other people behind their backs? Do I associate with and listen to what gossips say?
We must prove ourselves trustworthy of the secrets and private burdens others need to share with a trustworthy friend. In a world of constant gossip, betrayal, and criticism, we must be an island of concern, character, and integrity. When we are trustworthy, people will be open with us about their burdens, and we can be a blessing to them in their time of need![1]
[1] Luke 6:31; James 5:16.
Faithful Father, I ask for the Holy Spirit's help to be a person of integrity who proves trustworthy throughout my life and ministry. I want people to know that they can trust their hearts, secrets, and burdens with me and that I will bring them only to You — that I won't gossip or leak their concerns to others. I pray this in Jesus' name. Amen.
