What effect can gossip have? It breaks down relationships. It's in the Bible, Exodus 23:1, TLB. "Do not pass along untrue reports. Do not cooperate with an evil man by affirming on the witness stand something you know is false."

Gossip is as harmful and lasting as physical wounds. It's in the Bible, Proverbs 25:18, TLB. "Telling lies about someone is as harmful as hitting him with an axe, or wounding him with a sword, or shooting him with a sharp arrow."

Gossip wastes valuable time. It's in the Bible, II Thessalonians 3:11-12, TLB. "Yet we hear that some of you are living in laziness, refusing to work, and wasting your time in gossiping. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ we appeal to such people—we command them—to quiet down, get to work, and earn their own living."

Gossip can ruin friendships. It's in the Bible, Proverbs 16:28, TLB. "An evil man sows strife; gossip separates the best of friends."

Gossip is based on rumors. It's in the Bible, Proverbs 11:13, TLB. "A gossip goes around spreading rumors, while a trustworthy man tries to quiet them."