SEP 15

Genesis 12:10-20, 20:1-18
Memorise Proverbs 14:5
“A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies”

Sometimes we try to justify the lies that we tell. We think that if no one gets hurt, then it is ok. In fact, there are times when we even think that lies are good, because we are protecting someone, and it is for a good cause. That is exactly what Abraham thought, when he lied not once but twice, when he told others that Sarah was his sister, and not his wife. In both instances, Abraham and his wife were entering into a new territory, which was ruled by a potentially hostile king. Afraid for his life, he instructed his attractive wife to pose as his sister, lest they kill him and take her for themselves. He must have thought to himself – I’m sure its ok, it’s just a little lie and no one would find out. After all, she is my half-sister so it’s kind of like a half truth. Anyway this is for our own protection, it’s not like we’re doing anything illegal or immoral. What if I don’t lie and either me or my wife gets killed!

How wrong Abraham was, for in both instances, he was found out by God, and publicly rebuked by the foreign kings. His testimony and reputation was marred, and if not for God’s protection, he would have been killed for his lie! You see, there is never a good reason to lie. A lie is a lie, and it is always wrong. We can rationalise and think that if we do lie, then something good can come out of it. However, when we do that, we are practising situational ethics, where we try to second guess God. If you don’t lie, God would be able to provide a solution for the problem at hand, and even use your truth to bring out a far better outcome than you had ever imagined?

Our first priority is to be men and women of honesty and integrity. Above all things, we honour God and obey His law. It is not for us to ask the ‘what ifs’. Otherwise, then no law is certain, and at every juncture, we would choose an expedient, but not necessarily lawful solution to our problems, instead of trusting in God. Thus we must always tell the truth, even when it seems like the foolish thing to do. Our testimony and reputation is at stake. I had rather be known as a simple, maybe foolish but very honest man, than a street-smart, worldly wise but cunning and crafty dishonest guy.

Thought: A lie, by any other name, is still a lie.
Prayer: Lord, may You grant me the courage to always be truthful in every situation that I face, so that I can honour You and have a testimony that glorifies Your name.