Honesty as far as the Christian is concerned is very important. As a matter of fact, it should be a great concern for non-Christians as well. Dishonesty is a problem confronting our society. Honesty, sincerity, integrity and openness of life are absolutely essential if the church is to stand high in the thinking of our neighbors and friends. If Christians are to have any influence for Christ, they must be genuine Christians. I want to discuss with you some aspects of the vital subject of honesty.
What is honesty? How important is honesty? How many people are really honest? Webster defines “honesty” as “honorable; characterized by integrity and straightforwardness in conduct, in thought and in speech; free from fraud; genuine, fully unadulterated; open; frank; sincere.” Then, he gives some opposites: “Dishonest; fraudulent; false; deceitful; crooked.”
First, let us note that Jesus is our supreme example of honesty. Jesus is the personification of truth. In John 14:6, “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’” He possesses the attributes of God, and God cannot lie (Titus 1:2). If Jesus was not honest and truthful, we would not have a perfect example (1 Peter 2:21-22), forgiveness of sins (Revelation 1:5), hope beyond the grave (1 Corinthians 15:19) and assurance of our heavenly home (John 14:1-2).
Second, notice the high cost of dishonesty. The Bible says many things about dishonesty (Leviticus 19:11; Proverbs 6:17-19; 11:1; 12:22; Revelation 21:8). It also has examples of what happens when dishonesty is displayed. Acts 5:1-10 tells of the dishonesty of Ananias and Sapphira, and the result of it, which was the death of both of them. Outside the Scripture, we see dishonesty can destroy reputations, families, friendships and disrupt workplaces.
Third, we can improve our honesty. First, learn some Bible principles (Leviticus 19:13; Luke 8:15; Romans 13:13; 2 Corinthians 13:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12). Second, be a positive example for others. Third, encourage honesty from others and demonstrate it. Fourth, be ready to stand up for honesty. Finally, make honesty a priority.
As difficult as it is to admit, honesty is a great concern in the world today. We must make a conscience decision to improve on our honesty, even when we think no one is looking, because God is watching. Honesty is not a sometimes rule, but it should remain in good times and in bad. Honesty pays dividends not only now, but it will do so in eternity as well.
