Prudence in Acting
13 A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.
Proverbs 11:13 (KJV)
The Imitation of Christ
Chapter 4 Prudence in Acting
Thomas À Kempis
Gossip is sinful. Telling things openly that someone else told you in private is gossip. Or telling something you overheard, saw, etc. A talebearer. Likewise, keeping one's peace and not blasting away with someone on the internet because "they said something wrong" is just as damaging. Humility is a key virtue, but holding one's tongue and not speaking out can be more important, especially when we don't even know who might be reading what we type. Arguing on the internet does nothing to advance the cause of Christianity and Jesus. However, exercising restraint opens us up to God's leading, teaches us humility, and demonstrates we are wise. Our silence makes us wiser than those who hypocritically shift their opinion based on sticking a finger in the wind to determine where they need to put the goalposts today.
28 Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.
Proverbs 17:28 (KJV)