The Whisper That Wounds

A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.

Proverbs 16:28

Gossip seems like such a small thing—just a whisper here, a story shared there. But Proverbs reminds us of its devastating power: it can separate close friends. Words, once spoken, cannot be taken back. They spread like wildfire, often burning the very bridges of trust and love that took years to build.

Maybe you’ve been on the receiving end—someone you cared for and trusted shared something behind your back. You found out, and it hurt. Not just because of what was said, but because they said it. The wound goes deeper when it comes from someone we considered a friend.

Forgiveness is essential—Jesus teaches us to forgive not just seven times, but seventy-seven times (Matthew 18:22). Forgiveness frees our heart from bitterness and pain. But it’s also okay to admit that things may not go back to the way they were. Trust, once broken, takes time—sometimes even a lifetime—to rebuild. And sometimes, it never fully returns.

But even when friendships shift, God remains constant. He sees your hurt, your effort to forgive, and your desire to still walk in love despite the pain. Let that comfort you today.

Take time to reflect on these questions.

Have I been hurt by gossip? How did I respond?

Is there someone I need to forgive, even if things will never be the same?

Have I been guilty of gossip? How can I make it right?

Let us thank the Lord for the relationships He has given us and ask Him to teach us to guard our tongue and speak only words that build up and not tear down. Let God help you forgive those who have hurt you, and ask that He will give you wisdom in how to move forward.

God can heal broken friendships and is willing to help you trust again—in His time and way.