Do not lie to one another, since you laid aside the old self with its evil practices,

Colossians 3:9

Paul links lying to the old way of life. Before salvation, we saw lying in two categories “little white lies” and “dark lies.” The Christian ought to see all lying as God sees it, sinful and to be avoided. We understand that there is no such thing as little white lies, all lying is sinful. The Bible says in Proverbs 12:22, “Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, But those who deal faithfully are His delight.” Psalm 119:163 continues, “I hate and despise falsehood, But I love Your law.”

Those who have been born again to a living hope that is found in Jesus Christ are new creatures in Him. The body of Christ are a group of people who have put off the old man. We are to be living lives that are honest and trustworthy before a watching world. That is not always easy, but by God’s grace, we can live honestly and truthfully.

The Bible says that God hates a lying tongue. Proverbs 6:16-17 says, “There are six things which the LORD hates, Yes, seven which are an abomination to Him: Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood.” Lying is when we say something that we know to be false with the intention to deliberately mislead someone. Below are some questions to help you address the sin of deceit. Answer them honestly before the Lord. We cannot lie to God as He knows all things about us. God is fully aware of the innermost thoughts and the secrets of our hearts.

1. Is lying a pattern in your life?
2. What do you lie about the most?
3. Do you exaggerate to make yourself look better?
4. Are you guilty of any form of cheating?

If any of these be the case for you, confess, and repent. This sin must be dealt with if an honest and godly manner prevails. The Christian should desire to be faithful and honest. Lying will destroy your relationships with family, friends, and fellow believers.

There was a time when a man’s word was his bond. In times past there were a lot more honest and trustworthy people. It appears now that as the spiritual condition of the world declines there is also a lack of godly principles and values. Let us be a people that honours our words and seek not to mislead people with our tongue.