8 Proverbs on Telling the Truth

The book of Proverbs repeatedly warns against lying and celebrates truthful speech as a mark of God's kingdom. These 8 passages remind believers why honesty matters to the Lord.
Bill Thrasher

Becoming a Christian means one has been delivered from Satan’s kingdom of darkness and lives in Christ’s kingdom. His kingdom is characterized by truth.

“There are six things which the Lord hates, yes, seven which are an abomination to Him: Haughty eyes, a lying tongue . . . a false witness who utters lies, and one who spreads strife among brothers.” (Proverbs 6:16–17a, 19)

“Truthful lips will be established forever, but a lying tongue is only for a moment.” (12:19)

“Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who deal faithfully are His delight.” (12:22)

“A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who tells lies will not escape.” (19:5)

“Bread obtained by falsehood is sweet to a man, but after- ward his mouth will be filled with gravel.” (20:17)

“The acquisition of treasures by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor, the pursuit of death.” (21:6)

“A false witness will perish, but the man who listens to the truth will speak forever.” (21:28)

“The eyes of the Lord preserve knowledge, but He over- throws the words of the treacherous man.” (22:12)

Obey the Holy Spirit as you consider the following questions:

  1. Have you corrected the lies that you have told in the past and asked forgiveness for them?
  2. Do you tend to exaggerate the facts in order to gain the approval of others?
  3. Have you made right any previous cheating?
  4. Do you tell God the precise sins you commit and claim His forgiveness?

For Further Reading

God as He Wants You to Know Him

by Bill Thrasher

Dr. Bill Thrasher bridges academic theology and personal faith, making deep biblical truths accessible and relatable for everyday believers.

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