Proverbs 17:9

Whoever would foster love covers over an offense,
    but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends. - Proverbs 17:9

Dear Heavenly Father,

Give me the self control that comes from love to cover over the failings of others with mercy and forgiveness.  And help me to forget them so I am not able to satisfy my need to vent by sharing their mistakes with other people.  I don't want to be the reason that someone thinks negatively about their friends, family and acquaintances.  Instead, I'd rather speak well of the in order to change their impression of each other for the better.  I repent of those times I've slipped and told what others have done wrong when there was no good reason to share it.  Thank you for covering my sins so I won't have to pay for them before your Father in heaven.  

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

Forgiveness is the best way to stop sins from causing collateral damage.