Honesty in Speech

Does the content of our speech really matter? Of course, it does! Does the content of our speech matter, whether in public or private settings, whether speaking with a friend or stranger and whether others are aware or perhaps even unaware of our speech? Of course, it does! The Bible affirms that the Lord hates a lying tongue and a false witness that speaks lies (Proverbs 6:16-19). Lying lips are an abomination to Him (Proverbs 12:22). Similarly, righteous men hate lying (Psalm 119:163; Proverbs 13:5).

Accordingly, both the Old and the New testaments record divine commands relative to the matter of honesty in speech. The Old Testament demanded that one should not bear false witness against his neighbor (Exodus 20:16). The New Testament demands that lying should be put away and that every man should speak truth with his neighbor (Ephesians 4:25).

Yes, lying must be removed (Psalm 119:29) and lying lips silenced (Psalm 31:18). May each of us always be emboldened to speak the truth—nothing more and nothing less. We will assuredly be blessed thereby, especially as we carry the Truth of the divine revelation to those in the world who need the saving knowledge of God’s Word.