A talebearer reveals secrets, but he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter (Proverbs 11:13). We know the importance of good, reliable witnesses in court cases as well as how much a false report can hurt someone. Much of the evil that we hear is gossip or is motivated by the desire to elevate the person sharing it by putting others down.

Paul encouraged the Philippians to think about things that were true, noble, just, pure, lovely, good, virtuous and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8). He knew that humans readily form opinions about others from the first report they hear, and seldom do we seek corroboration and proof. We can dislike a person who we have never met because we heard rumors about them. Everyone has something good about them. Our opinions of a person can be changed and molded by seeing their actions. It’s better to not believe the evil one hears without proof than to regret acting on the gossip in our ears.