First a few definitions:

Paraclete is a Greek word meaning “one who comes along side”.

Parakeet is a small chatty bird that (under natural circumstances) lives in nomadic flocks of thousands.

 

A Paraclete is someone who encourages others.

A parakeet could be compared to a gossiper, someone who chats with the crowd about anything, then moves on to the next crowd and repeats the same “chat”.

 

A Paraclete is given praise:

2 Corinthians 13:11  Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice!  Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace.  And the God of love and peace will be with you.

1 Thessalonians 5:11  Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Hebrews 3:13a  But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today”

 

A “parakeet” (gossiper, whisperer) is given a warning:

Proverbs 16:28b …a whisperer separates close friends.

Ephesians 4:29a Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths

Psalm 34:13 Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit.

Proverbs 20:19 A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.

 

So, Are you a “Paraclete” or a “parakeet”?

The choice is yours…