"Three high school seniors were late for school one day and did not arrive at school until the afternoon classes. They had spent the morning just riding around town. They explained their tardiness by stating that their car had a flat and they did not have a spare. 'OK,' the teacher replied, 'But here is your makeup test,' as she separated them. One question, 'Which tire was flat?'"

There would be times that you can lie and get away with it, but more often than not you cannot. Moses warned the Israelites years ago, ". . . be sure your sin will find you out" (Num. 32:23). One of the problems with not being truthful is that it normally takes another lie to prop up the first one you told. And then another to prop that one up, and before long you have built a fragile lattice work of lies that will easily cave in on top of you! You also have to have a good memory to be a liar. You have to remember what story you told to whom! If you are not careful, you may forget what lie you told to which person, and may slip up and contradict your own story later.

The best approach is honesty. "Honesty is the best policy" may be an old saying, but it is so true! "Provide things honest in the sight of all men" (Rom. 12:17). "Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor . . ." (Eph. 4:25). Integrity is a great virtue. Dishonesty ruins such and will cause you to lose your influence.

Look what all you have to lose by dishonesty: your reputation, the respect of others, your integrity, the trust of others, and most importantly, your soul! ". . . and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone . . ." (Rev. 21:8). Just make up your mind that you will always be truthful - in all circumstances. Feel like George Washington did, "I cannot tell a lie!" Keep your word. Do as you promise that you will. Have the attitude that says, "I would rather lose the game than to play unfairly!" Lying will simply get you into more trouble. Always tell the truth to start with. You'll be glad you did!

Guardian of Truth XXIX: 5, p. 134
March 7, 1985