The most flagrant violation of Christian integrity is the lie. The problem with the lie is that it is presented as truth. It is not easily detected as a lie unless the one receiving the lie has information that refutes the lie. While that would be nice, it is not usually the case. And the liar, in his bent on deceiving, will not reveal the truth.
All of us have experienced the difficulty of dealing with one who lies. When we question the lie, the liar proclaims his innocence, turns the conversation around, attacks and ends up protesting how hurt he/she is that we would question what he/she said. But isn’t it just the opposite? The one lied to, trying to get at the truth, ends up being hurt, confused, burdened, wondering if perhaps the accusation was uncalled for. So it would seem deception has reigned and the liar goes off justifying himself. Lying is difficult to address because the lie is set in a foundation of stone that does not easily chip unless truth comes to the rescue.
If you are guilty of the sin of lying, you must face it promptly and deal with it aggressively. In Proverbs 12:22, the Scripture states; “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord. But those who deal truthfully are His delight.” God will judge the liar according to Revelation 21:8; “But for the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.”
Any true believer in the Lord Jesus Christ should be shocked that he would even consider lying since it is such an offense to God. Sadly, many professing Christians are lying and causing hurt, confusion and deception, spilling out an environment that causes so much damage, especially with the ones that are closest to them.
So, what must be done? You must acknowledge your sin before God, confess it, ask forgiveness for it and make a commitment to forsake it. Then go to the person or persons you have lied to and confess to them, ask forgiveness from them and make any amends that may be appropriate. You must then be aggressive in attacking the stronghold of lying. Be on the alert at all times for its resurfacing. Old habits don’t die easily. Practice, practice, practice telling the truth and God who redeemed you will be delighted. “But those who deal truthfully are His delight”
God bless you.
