Websters Dictionary defines gossip as, “a person who chatters or repeats idle talk and rumors.”  Idle talk and rumors usually define the content of gossip. However, it’s important to realize that the accuracy of the information being chattered about is not the only issue. Excessive talk fuels gossip.

The phrase “Less is More” is often associated with the architect and furniture designer Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe (1886-1969), one of the founders of modern architecture and simplicity of style. However, the modern meaning is strongly related to anti-materialism and minimalism which focus on surrounding yourself with simple things and ditching superfluous things.

However, the first time I heard it was from my first seminary professor, Dr. Doug Chatham, Director of Graduate Studies. He often said this right after assigning a paper to write, “less is more.” You were to stick with the subject, not ramble like you were writing a preaching manuscript.  

There are numerous passages in the Bible that mentions less is more. Less is more and more is less. One righteous will outclass fifty wicked, For the wicked are moral weaklings but the righteous are GOD-strong (Psalms 37:16-17).

In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise (Proverbs 10:19). It could be true or false. The issue is there are some things that simply do not need to be said. I know I am fat, but I do not have to be reminded.

We all have been guilty at one time or another of not listening because we were rapidly forming a response in our mind while the other person was still talking. Most will tell you it is rude. It tells the other person that you are not really concerned with their opinion, but forcing yours.   

Proverbs identifies this as foolishness: He/She who answers a matter before he/She hears it is folly and shame to him/her (18:13).