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HONESTY PLEASES GOD

Honesty is being truthful and straight-forward in all our dealings: Truthful in representing ourselves, other people and matters, and even God. The Bible is clear that the Lord is not pleased with dishonest and deceitful practices (Psalm 101:7). Being dishonest is to lie, misrepresent ourselves or someone, or cover something up even if it is to avoid conflict. Sometimes it might not go too well with others when you are honest. But remember what wisdom says: "Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses (Prov. 27:6)"

There is an interesting plot in the Christian movie ‘Courageous’ that came out a few years ago. A man loses his job and finds it extremely tough to provide for his family. After weeks of doing small jobs he finally lands up in a manufacturing firm that offers him a supervisor role. The job would pay him more, but during the interview he is told that this role would require him to manipulate the inventory data for the company's profit. When the man refuses to do so owing to his biblical ethics, they give him time to think over it a couple of days since it is a lucrative offer. The desperate man meets the panel a few days later, still sticking to his principles. To his utter surprise he is commended and offered the job and told that the whole thing was a setup.

Now everyday won't be as dramatic as that. But we have to become people whom others can trust. Sometimes it is tempting to lie or manipulate, especially when it rewards us with financial gain, power or temporary recognition. But it comes at a huge cost. It can cost us our careers, our family, our reputation and even bring dishonor to God.

Honesty is especially important in our relationships. The scars go deep and families go through heart-breaks if our commitments are not honest. We must also remember that honesty must always be motivated by love and dealt with gently, and not just giving accurate information harshly. As an honest person, we should ultimately be concerned about people and their need to grow in the knowledge of God.

The CHALLENGE to Change:

Being tactless or outspoken or repeating gossip accurately are not characteristics of honesty. Check your motives and submit to your conscience. Choose to be honest and wise in all your dealings, no matter what the cost- choose integrity.