An old saying meaning to say one thing to a persons face and another to others behind their back. Is this right? Do we really think the person won’t find out?
Proverbs 18:19 A brother offended is harder to win than a strong city, and contentions are like the bars of a castle.
After the person has spoken and the one spoken of knows what has been said there is no more trust. If it continues that person may pull so far away that any friendship is lost.
Matthew 5:23-24 Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.
We should go to our brother and not our neighbors. God wants us to have right relationships with others.
Proverbs 16:28 A perverse man sows strife, and a whisper separates the best of friends.
Words have destroyed more families than most things. Once trust is broken it may never be repaired. Think about some of the reasons we might speak unkindly about others. Do we feel less than them and need to put them down to build up ourselves? Is it jealousy? Maybe some slight that hurt you that you need to talk with them about?
If the behavior continues and you have spoken to the person and they will not hear. Staying away from them may be the best for all.
Proverbs 20:19 He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with one who flatters with his lips.
