The Proverbs provide general truths about life. They are God’s assurance that His way is the best, both on earth and for eternity. The same sentiment is recorded in 1 Timothy 4:8, where Paul wrote, “…godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” The world often presents plans for earthly success that include some amount of deception, whether great or small. The Proverbs teach against any deception as a means for success. Consider these proverbs:
“Truthful lips will be established forever, But a lying tongue is only for a moment. Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, But counselors of peace have joy.” -Proverbs 12:19-20
“Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, But those who deal faithfully are His delight.” -Proverbs 12:22
“The acquisition of treasures by a lying tongue Is a fleeting vapor, the pursuit of death.” -Proverbs 21:6
If you desire longevity, tell the truth. If you desire joy, make peace. If you desire to please the Lord, deal honestly. And if you desire treasure that lasts, both in this life and in eternity, acquire it honestly. Those who counsel you to hide the truth are not leading you to success. They are leading you to earthly and eternal failure.
God’s way is the way of honesty. According to Titus 1:2, God cannot lie. He always speaks the truth, whether or not it is pleasant to hear. In the Proverbs, He counsels us to adopt His honesty and predicts earthly and eternal success for those that do. When you are at a decision point between a small deception or a difficult truth, choose the truth always.
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