Archived Verse Of the Week

Do you recall answering a question as a child with your fingers crossed behind your back? The notion was that as long as your fingers were crossed, you could tell a lie. As adults, we justify not telling the truth by claiming that our "white lies" protect others and do not hurt anyone. Regardless of age, we all have engaged in dishonesty.

 

In today's passage, Solomon speaks intensely against deceptive words and practices; his words serve as both a warning and a source of consolation for us today. These verses describe several ways to determine if a person is of bad moral character. Verse 12 says they use foul language and talk about off-colour topics. The next verse characterizes them as persons who frequently deliver deceptive body language cues. They communicate via their eyes, feet, and fingers.

 

How many people do you know who use these types of "signals" to convey filthy or off-colour meanings added to whatever they say? These type of people, verse 14 says, usually end up stirring dissension (disagreement, argument, discord).

 

Solomon cautions that the deceptive and lying person "always stirs up conflict," and as a result, "disaster will overcome him in a moment; he will be swiftly destroyed—without remedy" (v. 15). Therefore, even though we may be tempted to deceive and manipulate others in order to obtain fame, fortune, or other short-term benefits, we must keep in mind that lying will ultimately lead to death. 

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God's lack of punishment is an act of mercy extended for the sake of repentance. When God sees no desire for repentance, He punishes sin and executes justice. "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap," Galatians 6:7.

 

Many examples in Scripture show God's mercy being extended for a long time. Still, once it becomes clear that there is no intention of repentance, God's mercy withdraws, and God's holiness initiates justice. God tolerated Haman's evil behaviour for years and years until his death came suddenly and without remedy. God will punish the wicked suddenly and without mercy at some point. It will strike without warning and will be unstoppable and irreversible. 

 

These verses in Proverbs are also reassuring because God is a just and righteous judge. While the wicked's momentary success may frustrate us, we are reminded, "For indeed, those who are far from You shall perish; You have destroyed all those who desert You for harlotry (unfaithfulness)" (Ps. 73:27). 

 

God cares about what we say. Deception and lying have no place in a believer's conduct. Do you ever try to avoid telling the truth? Pay attention to the Holy Spirit's guidance and dive deep into the word of God. Scripture will mould into a person that not only speaks but holds truth in their hearts.

 

There can be no trust in a relationship if there is no truth. Our legal system cannot function unless people take oaths to "tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth." Suspicion and frustration replace peace between people when they tell lies and break promises.

 

The first truth we need to understand is that, although God created us to love and glorify him, we are sinful and unable to save ourselves from eternal destruction. The second truth is that God offers forgiveness and everlasting life through the death and resurrection of his Son, Jesus. The third truth is that once we have believed in Jesus, we must walk in truth, being honest with one another.

 

How important is the truth to you?