They Did Not Like to Retain God in Their Knowledge

Paul, writing with a sharp quill, points out what becomes of those who do not like to retain God in their knowledge.
"God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness, full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them." [Romans 1:28b-32].
Considering Paul's list, some of the things he lists seem pretty tame while others are obviously vile. For example; who are the whisperers and what is whispering? The Greek word Paul uses ,a Greek word you probably don't need to know (Strong;s #5588), lists "secret slanderers" and "detractor" as synonyms.
Does it seem a little harsh that God considers me "deserving of death" if I engage in a little whispering or slander? probably the same as gossip, don't you think. Perhaps a little harsh, and yet, perhaps not. For what place in heaven is being prepared for those of us who tear down, criticize, divide, whisper? The answer is obvious; there is no place for such things will not be found in heaven. If they were, how could it be heaven?
This list is long and hard to read because in it we find ourselves; maybe in more than one place. What is the cure for whispering? Whisperers anonymous? No. There is only one healing for any and all of the maladies of character and motive Paul lists; and that cure is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
Have you invited Him into your life today to lead, purify, and prepare you to live in the presence of a Holy God? If you're going to whisper, then "whisper a prayer in the morning" and invite the Spirit of Jesus Christ into your life.
God Bless. e.c.