Question: How do I deal with a culture of gossiping at my place of work? As a believer, I know I should not be drawn in but it almost feels like, it’s something I need to do in order be part of the team and even get to hear of career opportunities before they officially come out.
Answer: Dealing with a culture of gossip in the workplace can be challenging, especially when it feels like participation is necessary for inclusion or staying informed. As a believer, it’s essential to balance staying engaged in a way that honours God while navigating workplace dynamics. Here’s how I think we can handle the issue of gossiping in a biblical and practical way:
Understand God’s View on Gossip
The Bible consistently warns against gossip and its destructive nature.
- Gossip divides and destroys relationships: Proverbs 16:28 says, “A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.” Engaging in gossip erodes trust and unity, which goes against God’s call for believers to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9).
- Gossip reveals the heart: Jesus taught that our words reflect the condition of our hearts (Matthew 12:34-35). Speaking or participating in gossip can indicate deeper issues such as envy, pride, or a lack of self-control.
- God calls for purity in speech: Ephesians 4:29 instructs believers, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs.” Gossip, which often tears others down, is contrary to this command.
Recognising that gossip displeases God is the first step toward making intentional choices to avoid it.
Avoid Participation Without Alienating Yourself
While it’s important not to partake in gossip, completely isolating yourself from your coworkers could hinder your ability to build healthy relationships or advance your career. Here are some practical ways to stay engaged without compromising your faith:
- Redirect the conversation: When gossip arises, steer the discussion in a more positive or neutral direction. For example, if coworkers begin to criticize someone, you can say, “I’m not sure about that, but I do know they’ve been working really hard lately.” This can subtly signal your unwillingness to gossip while keeping the tone respectful.
- Politely excuse yourself: If a conversation becomes overly negative or harmful, you can excuse yourself without being judgmental. For instance, you might say, “I’ve got to finish something up,” and quietly leave the discussion.
- Focus on the facts: In workplace settings, gossip often involves speculation or personal judgments. If career opportunities or important information arise in these conversations, focus on verified facts rather than participating in rumors. You might say, “I’ll wait to hear the official announcement before jumping to conclusions.”
Be a Light in Your Workplace
God calls believers to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13-16). This includes demonstrating integrity and encouraging others toward positivity and kindness.
Model integrity in speech: Colossians 4:6 says, “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” Speak words that build others up, encourage your coworkers, and reflect God’s love. Your example may inspire others to follow suit.
Cultivate trustworthiness: By refraining from gossip, you become someone coworkers can trust. Proverbs 11:13 says, “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.” When others see you as reliable and discreet, they may begin to confide in you or seek your advice, strengthening your influence at work.
Promote unity: Instead of gossiping, focus on fostering a culture of teamwork and collaboration. Offer to mediate conflicts or encourage coworkers to address issues directly with the person involved, as Matthew 18:15 suggests.
Trust God for Opportunities and Favor
It can feel like you need to participate in gossip to stay informed about career opportunities or to be part of the team, but remember that your ultimate provider and promoter is God, not your workplace.
- Seek God’s favor: Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to trust in the Lord and acknowledge Him in all our ways, promising that He will direct our paths. Pray for wisdom and favor in your career, trusting God to open the right doors at the right time.
- Do your work with excellence: Colossians 3:23 reminds us, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” When you excel in your work and maintain a positive attitude, you gain respect and recognition without needing to compromise your values.
- Build authentic relationships: Focus on forming genuine, positive connections with your coworkers. Over time, people will respect your character and seek your input, even if you choose not to participate in gossip.
Pray for Wisdom and Strength
Navigating workplace dynamics requires wisdom, discernment, and courage.
- Pray for wisdom: James 1:5 promises that God gives wisdom generously to those who ask. Ask God to guide your conversations and interactions at work.
- Pray for your coworkers: Pray for those who participate in gossip, asking God to help them find fulfillment and positivity. Jesus commands us to love and pray for others, even in difficult situations (Matthew 5:44).
- Pray for opportunities to shine for Christ: Ask God to use you as a light in your workplace, helping to transform the culture and point others toward Him.
Conclusion
Dealing with a culture of gossip as a believer requires balance: refusing to compromise your faith while maintaining positive relationships and influence. By avoiding participation in gossip, modelling integrity, and trusting God for your career opportunities, you can navigate this challenge in a way that honours God. Remember Philippians 2:15: “So that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky.”
By living according to biblical principles, you’ll not only resist the temptation to gossip but also stand out as a beacon of light and integrity in your workplace.
God bless you in Jesus Name. Amen
Altar call: For anyone reading this article who is not saved and wants to be part of the family of God or you want to re-dedicate your life back to Jesus, please repeat this out loud. “Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I have sinned against you. Lord Jesus forgive me of my sins. I repent of my sins. Lord Jesus come into my life and be my Lord now and forever in Jesus Name
About The Author
Mrs Edore Sambo is a Deaconess in the RCCG and also a UK qualified coach (accredited with ILM and EMCC-UK member)
Email: [email protected]
