WHY DO PEOPLE LIE?

November 16, 2023

“The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth.” Proverbs 12:22

Lying is a pervasive problem.

It seems that today’s “me-first” mindset places very little value on honesty and personal integrity. Truth is sacrificed on the altar of self-advancement.

The two main reasons we lie are usually rooted in either fear or pride.

Fear is the first reason. We are afraid of the consequences if we tell the truth. Yielding to fear shows a lack of trust in God to take care of the situation. If we yield to God and do it His way, He will usually give us favor with those that we fear.

The other reason is pride. We are prideful and concerned about what others will think of us (desiring their approval instead of God’s.)

At the time, you may think that lying will make life easier, but one lie almost always requires another and another and another. You have to remember everything you said to keep from confusing your lies.

When you start with the truth, you don’t have to remember all the specific details. The truth makes life a lot less complicated.

Take a look at your life. Where do you fall on the spectrum of honest living?

There’s only one way to break the bondage of a lie, and that’s with truth. Seek to live with integrity and honesty and you’ll find new freedom for living.

How?

The truth is found in Jesus Christ. Find Him, and find the truth, the power, and the strength to become a person of integrity.

Written by Bryant Wright, Founder, RFTH

DIG DEEPER

Read “What does the Bible say about lying?” at GotQuestions.org