Relationships 101
Slander No One

Scripture Reading: Titus 2:11-15

Key Verse: Titus 3:1-2

Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.

Webster describes slander as false or malicious statements about a person. When we allow slander to enter any relationship, it is far from attractive! The basic of a good relationship is speaking the truth in love. As Webster says, slander is speaking falsehoods in a malicious manner.

Slander can be very subtle. It could come across our lips in forms that seem like concern, even a “prayer request.” Too often, the true motive for our concerns or prayer request can be to share some “juicy” news about someone’s life. God, who judges the hearts of His people, knows the difference in our motives. As members of God’s family, He asks us to be very careful in our words about each other. He warns that every careless word will be noted and judged.

The problem with our statements about other people is they are from our own limited perspective. We may believe they are true statements, but, in reality, we probably only know part of the truth. We can do great damage and harm in our relationships if we do not guard our tongue. We must remind ourselves often of how limited we are in our understanding of all the details of another person’s life. Only God can judge fairly so He asks us to stay out of this judging business!

Here is a great relationship tip for Be slow to speak and quick to listen.

Father, I will need the ‘check’ of your Spirit in my heart to stop my tongue from slander today! I give you permission to remind me often that I can honor you. In Jesus’ Name, amen.