We live in a society that encourages the sin of lying. In a recent TV talk show, children were asked what they thought about having to lie to parents, teachers, or to their friends. Most thought it was “OK”, “it's just a natural part of life,” one said. Another youngster said, “Everyone has to lie once in a while.”

WRONG! God commands people not to lie to one another; “You shall not steal, nor deal falsely, nor lie to one another” (Leviticus 19:11). We are to “put away lying” from our lives: “Therefore, putting away lying, each one speak truth with his neighbor...” (Ephesians 4:25). God says we don't have to lie. We can keep from lying, we can control what we say and what we do!

Lying only makes things worse. It never helps an honest person to lie. It causes us to be someone we're not. It causes a guilty conscience, which can affect every phase of our life. It can destroy good relationships. It has destroyed families. Lying always comes back to haunt honest people.

The scripture says, “...All liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone...” (Revelation 21:8). This is talking about “eternal hell”, folks! Get rid of all lying today and begin living as honest a life as possible. Let's always tell the truth and let the chips of honesty fall where they may, you'll have a better life!

Lalo Enriquez