Today, we’re returning to our regularly scheduled Good Word Fridays! We hope that you enjoyed the Israel 2020 series.

Good Word Friday Theme: Charity

What is today’s proverb saying? That we should cover up people’s indiscretions — like sweep them under the rug and pretend they never happened? Of course not.

The proverb is saying that when we overlook (or forgive) a person’s mistake (especially an honest or well-intentioned mistake) that is an act of love. The second part of the verse says that when we gossip about it and spread it around, the result is offense. Idle prattle can drive a wedge between even the best of friends.

So, when you resist the temptation to “vent” about something someone did to you, that shows love. When you’re discreet about an awkward matter, that shows love. When you try to protect someone’s reputation, that shows love.

Wouldn’t you want others to do the same for you?

“He that covereth a transgression seeketh love.” (Proverbs 17:9)

This article has undergone ministry review and approval.