HONESTY AND A CHRISTIAN

Honesty is not only a precious and priceless virtue, but it is also rare. We, the fallen human beings, tend to run more easily and eagerly, towards a quick way out, than be honest, take a stand for it, and be willing to pay the price for the same.

When I asked Google, a query – “Honesty – A Christian perspective” Google AI overview, come up with these words.
– “From a Christian perspective, honesty is a core virtue and a fundamental aspect of living a life that pleases God. It’s not just about avoiding lies; it encompasses integrity, sincerity, and faithfulness in all dealings. Christians believe that honesty is a reflection of God’s character and is essential for building strong relationships with God and others.”

Honesty is not only precious, priceless and rare, but much more than that, honesty is a core and foundational principle of Christian faith and walk. Honesty is a character badge of a Christian – a reflection of who we are. This is why the LORD Jesus said…
– “34…For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” – Matthew 12:34

The God of the Bible is different, and He expects His children and disciples to be different too, just like Him. This aspect is absolutely essential, when dealing with honesty.
– “44 For I am the LORD your God. You shall therefore consecrate yourselves, and you shall be holy; for I am holy…” – Leviticus 11:44

The LORD, in His wisdom, had put honesty as one of the commandments in the Ten Commandments. They are to be obeyed implicitly, and not be applied and obeyed, only whenever it is convenient for us.
– “16 Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.” – Exodus 20:16

Honesty as envisioned by YAHWEH, is not some theoretical idea, that is relegated to glorious words, limited only to the paper. Far from it, the LORD expects honest conduct at all times, and absolute honesty in all our relationships. This is the standard that we are to measure ourselves against. Everything in our Christian life is interlinked, and has consequences.
– “​1 “You shall not circulate a false report. Do not put your hand with the wicked to be an unrighteous witness. 2 You shall not follow a crowd to do evil; nor shall you testify in a dispute so as to turn aside after many to pervert justice. 3 You shall not show partiality to a poor man in his dispute. 4 “If you meet your enemy’s ox or his donkey going astray, you shall surely bring it back to him again. 5 If you see the donkey of one who hates you lying under its burden, and you would refrain from helping it, you shall surely help him with it. 6 “You shall not pervert the judgment of your poor in his dispute. 7 Keep yourself far from a false matter; do not kill the innocent and righteous. For I will not justify the wicked.” – Exodus 23:1-7
– “Our truthfulness should be so consistent and dependable that we need no oath to support it: a simple “yes” or “no” should suffice [Mt. 5:34-37; Jas. 5:12].” – Douglas Moo

How do we view honesty? Do we see it as a virtue worth abiding by? What status is honesty given in our lives? Do we uphold honesty at all times? Do we consider dishonesty and lying, to be a sin? Do we see dishonesty and lies as a thing which our LORD utterly abhors and detests? Are we willing to pay the price for being honest? Do we lie when we are in a tricky and difficult situation? How do we reconcile the command of our LORD, and our sin of disobedience? Do we think it is alright to be dishonest, when situation demands? Are we honest, and ask for the LORD’s forgiveness, or, do we find excuses to justify our dishonesty and lies?
– “22 Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.” – Proverbs 12:22
– “One little lie leads to another, and pretty soon you’re telling whoppers. To soothe your sense of guilt, you lie to yourself too. Maybe you tell yourself you’re not really lying but just “repackaging the facts.” Maybe you take up the motto “You can’t make an omelet without breaking a few eggs.” Maybe you repeat false philosophies you’ve heard in the classroom, like “Acts must be judged by their consequences.” Or maybe you just make excuses: “I know the end doesn’t usually justify the means, but my case is special.” Before long you’ve told so many lies that you can’t even remember the truth. Worse yet, people who forget the truth usually go on the forget the Truth – and I think you know Who I mean!” – J. Budziszewski

May the LORD help us to be honest, uncompromising and faithful Christian disciple, in our thoughts, words and deeds. If ever we lie, let us earnestly and sincerely seek the LORD for forgiveness and help, so that, we may truly live a life worthy of our Redeemer. Even so, the LORD help us.