Day 14 — Telling the Truth

“Lying lips are detestable to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight.”

— Proverbs 12:22 (BSB)

Ethan was playing catch inside the house, even though he knew he wasn’t supposed to. The ball bounced off the wall and knocked over his mom’s favorite vase. Crash! It broke into pieces.

When his mom came in and asked what happened, Ethan’s mind raced. He could blame the dog. He could say it fell over on its own. Or he could tell the truth.

Have you ever been in a moment like that? Lying can seem like the easy way out. It might keep you out of trouble, at least for now. But the Bible is very clear about how God feels about lies: “Lying lips are detestable to the LORD.” Detestable is a strong word. It means God hates it.

Why does God care so much about honesty? Because God is truth. Jesus called Himself “the truth” (John 14:6). God has never told a single lie. And Jesus called the devil “a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44). When we lie, we’re acting more like the enemy than like our Father.

Lies also cause problems. One lie usually needs another lie to cover it up, and another, and another. Soon you’re trapped in a tangled web. And when people find out, it’s hard for them to trust you again.

But look at the other half of the verse: “those who deal faithfully are His delight.” God doesn’t just put up with honest people. He delights in them! When you tell the truth, especially when it’s hard, you make God glad.

Telling the truth takes courage. It might mean getting in trouble. It might mean admitting you messed up. But being honest leaves you free. You don’t have to remember what you said or worry about getting caught.

Ethan took a deep breath and said, “I did it. I was playing catch inside. I’m really sorry.” His mom was sad about the vase. But she hugged him and said, “Thank you for telling me the truth.”

Think about it: Why is it sometimes so tempting to lie? What makes telling the truth worth it?

Try this: If there’s anything you’ve lied about recently, go to the person and tell the truth today. It’s hard, but you’ll feel so much lighter afterward.

Dear God, You are the God of truth, and You delight in honesty. Forgive me for the times I have lied. Give me courage to tell the truth, even when it’s hard and even when I might get in trouble. Make me someone who deals faithfully. In Jesus’ name, Amen.