Back in secondary school, I had a big argument with a classmate who sat next to me in the front row. We haven't spoken since. One day his workbook was mistakenly delivered to my row and I failed to notice that it was his. When I found it at home, I decided to give it back even though we were still mad at each other. But the next day, when he realized his workbook was missing, he immediately suspected me. Coincidentally, I forgot to put his workbook in my bag, which put me in a dilemma. Faced with this situation, I chose to deny taking his book.

Lying can seem like a quick fix, especially in challenging situations or when we are unprepared. Many people often avoid trouble by being dishonest. In the case of Abraham, he instructed Sarah to claim to the Egyptians that she was his sister, not his wife, hoping to protect himself. However, lies don't really solve the problem. Instead, it escalates the problem by eroding trust, affecting how others view us, and increasing our own stress and guilt.

In the Bible story of 1 Samuel 21, David tells us what happens when we give in to the temptation of lies.

1. David lied to Ahimelech, saying that King Saul had sent him on a special mission (1 Samuel 21:2). This lie not only deceived Ahimelech but also put him in danger.

2. Later, David lied to Ahimelech again, pretending to be accompanied by soldiers when in reality he was alone (1 Samuel 21:5). This only reinforced his original lie.

3. David even lied to Achish, king of Gath, and pretended to be mad (1 Samuel 21:13). It makes him look like he's losing his mind to avoid getting into trouble.

But lying didn’t help David. In fact, it can lead to terrible things happening. His lies resulted in the death of innocent people (1 Samuel 22:16-19). The trick he used against Achish the second time did not protect him as he had hoped (1 Samuel 27:10-11).

David’s story tells us that lying can have serious consequences. Even a small lie can hurt someone. When we try to lie to avoid getting into trouble, we need to consider the consequences of lying. Even if it's hard, it's best to be honest.

Admitting when we make mistakes, holding ourselves accountable, and being honest with each other can help us grow and make our relationships stronger. Even when things get tough, staying honest is the best way to handle challenges and grow.

Prayer : Dear Father,Guide us away from the temptation of lies, especially in tough times. Let us choose honesty, knowing that deceit only brings harm. Help us face challenges with integrity and trust in Your wisdom. Strengthen us to always walk in truth. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.