Glue or Goo

In our daily family Bible study today, we finished the book of Titus.  We had a long discussion about divisiveness (Titus 3:  ⁹ But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. ¹⁰ Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. ¹¹ You may be sure that such a man is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.)  and what that meant.  Everyone had something to say.  Somethings were about work experiences, some about family experiences, some about experiences with friends, and some about experiences at churches.  We talked about how people who have been gifted with leadership qualities can either use or abuse those gifts.  How gossip in any form is so damaging.  We talked about how it can start with just a simple annoyance.  That the simple annoyance, real or perceived, when gossipped can destroy a group, church, or a family.  That when faced with these things that the source should always be approached before saying one word.   We talked about how Paul was telling us to be at peace with one another and that by not engaging in useless arguments and by redirecting gossipers to silence or approaching their offender that they can be the glue that holds their group together.  But when we give free rein to those who would gossip, be argumentative for fun, or stirring up of strife, the group no matter what it is, will fall apart into a big glob of useless goo.  So next time you are faced with someone who spouts negativity all the time, or enjoys gossip, or wants you to "join their side," ask yourself, Are you glue or goo?