A truthful witness saves lives, but one who utters lies is treacherous. Proverbs 14:25, TLV
What Counts as a Lie? Most of us would say we don’t lie. And that’s probably true — that is, that we say we don’t lie. Because GOD is pretty clear about how He feels about lying. Proverbs 6:16-19 says He hates it! Hates the lies. So, why would we do it?
Now, here’s a bit of information that’s discouraging. The truth is the average person lies 1.65 times per day. And many researchers believe the participants in their study we’re probably lying, so they wondered if they could ever get an accurate reading.
What constitutes as a lie according to these researchers? Here are some thoughts gleaned from “How Often Do People Lie in Their Daily Lives,”* by Dr. Gad Saad, PhD. According to professionals, these would be considered lies when we:
- intentionally try to mislead someone.
- completely falsify statements.
- give a partially true and partially false statement.
- convey statements where essential details are left out.
- embellish the truth.
- tell lies to protect others.
Those are professionals in the secular world, do you think our Father might see other behaviors as lies? How about:
- embellishing a testimony so that it is more impressive?
- depicting our Father more as a Santa Clause than a Holy GOD?
- withholding facts about our own responsibility and accountability in our faith journey to a new believer?
Does God Need a PR Person?
The truth is, GOD is GOD. He is the Creator of the Universe. We don’t need to add or delete anything to our witness of who He is. Because He doesn’t need us to defend or sell Him. He demands truth, not flattery (Daniel 11:32).
“I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book. If anyone adds to them, God shall add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his share in the Tree of Life and the Holy City, which are written in this book.” Revelation 22:18-19, TLV
So, this is pretty heavy duty stuff. But it is very important in an 
age where lying and “half-truths” have become commonplace. What was written thousands of years ago is still true today: that when we know the truth, the truth will set us free (John 8:32).
Think More About It
Are you like me? Do you struggle with thoughts and behaviors that fit the definition of lies? Please, know that this is something many people struggle with. Identifying the lie is the first step to freedom. Amen?
Until tomorrow, may the truth set us free, my friends. And, my friends, please pray that the truth about Israel and this war become clear so that we can speak truth. God bless you!
