Verse 1: Proverbs 12:22
“The LORD detests lying lips, but He delights in people who are trustworthy.”
Trust
Lies corrode trust, and trust is the foundation of all relationships. In the Proverbs, we find a clear directive that the Lord hates lying lips. To avoid the sin of lying, we must understand the grave consequences it carries.
Verse 2: Ephesians 4:25
“Therefore, putting away lying, ‘Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor,’ for we are members of one another.”
Honesty as a Strategy
In Ephesians, we are told to speak the truth with one another. This verse highlights an important strategy: honesty is not merely a moral virtue but a practical one.
Verse 3: Proverbs 6:16-19
“These six things the LORD hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren.”
The Sin of Lying in Perspective
Proverbs outlines seven abominations, and a lying tongue is among them. It’s an abomination to God.
To avoid the sin of lying, we must recognize its gravity. Lying is not just a small transgression. God hates it.
Verse 4: Colossians 3:9-10
“Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him.”
The Transformation
Colossians encourages us to remove the old self and out on the new man. This transformation involves not only personal growth but also the rejection of dishonesty.
Verse 5: Proverbs 19:5
“A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who speaks lies will not escape.”
Consequences of Deceit
Proverbs underscores that falsehood does not go unpunished. This is a vital strategic lesson – in the long run, honesty prevails
Proverbs 12:22, “The LORD detests lying lips, but He delights in people who are trustworthy.”
