Proverbs 25:18,  "Telling lies about others is as harmful as hitting them with an ax, wounding them with a sword, or shooting them with a sharp arrow." John 8:44,  "[The devil] was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies."

 

Think

"A lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is still putting its shoes on." It may seem, in reading today's verse, that King Solomon (the writer of Proverbs) was being a little dramatic when he said that lying was as harmful as attacking someone with an ax, a sword, or an arrow. Really? Seems a bit violent! But that is because he knew the power of words and the devastation and pain a lie can bring. In our society, lying seems harmless, and even necessary, precisely because we don't acknowledge its power. Maybe you've lied to your boss for a promotion, or exaggerated to your fishing buddies, or created a "life" on social media that doesn't really reflect you at all. The Bible says lying comes from the devil and that lying is his native language. Of course he wants us to lie just like he does; he hates the truth! God wants us to be honest, to speak the truth. When the Holy Spirit nudges you as you are about to exaggerate or lie (you can read more about this in yesterday's devotional), follow his prompting to be honest. And when you do, it will make God smile. The Bible says he delights in people who are trustworthy.

 

Act

Take a moment to evaluate the lies in your life. Write down your answers to these questions: Who are you trying to impress when you lie? In what situations are you most tempted to lie? What do you hope your lies will gain you?  Now, as a first step toward trustworthiness, tear up that paper! Speak truth today and call out the devil when he lies to you!

 

Pray

Dear God, help me see the ways I lie. Give me the courage to tell the truth. And, show me how I can repair the damage that's been done by my lies. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen!