A couple of the first lessons we learn as children are never to tell a lie and always tell the truth. But in our fallen nature, all of us have been tempted to lie to avoid getting in trouble, to prevent disappointing someone, or to avoid an uncomfortable conversation. But lies come with consequences and have an uncanny way of taking on a life of their own.
Several years ago, I spoke with a young woman who had learned her father had been living a double life. She was working her way through college and had taken a part-time position in the accounting department at her father’s business. She came across a suspicious receipt that prompted her to start digging. She soon learned her Dad had been having an affair for more than twenty years and had fathered a child with his mistress. The mistress and child lived close to her family’s home. For more than two decades, her father had been telling lies—all with the intention of avoiding an uncomfortable conversation.
Lies come with consequences. The Bible teaches that God is a God of absolute truth, and He detests lying (Prov. 6:16-17). While it may seem that falsehood is the only way to prevent being backed into a corner, a lying tongue is not a permanent solution. Solomon wrote:
“A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will not go free” (Prov. 19:5).
When we tell a lie, we are speaking the Enemy’s language. When Jesus addressed a group of non-believers who questioned His identity, He said, “You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44).
Rather than telling a lie, it’s easier to tell the truth and immediately deal with the potential fallout. A person who tells the truth regardless of the consequences may have some uncomfortable conversations but will build a reputation of solid character.
Thoughts to Ponder:
When you find yourself in a difficult situation, are you tempted to react by telling a lie?
Are you prone to exaggerate or mislead?
