“The Lord detests lying lips, but He delights in men who are truthful.” Prov. 12:22

Many of you will remember the famous TV game show, Truth or Consequences. Of course, the whole point of the show was to get people to answer incorrectly so they would have to face the consequences – which was the real fun part of the show.

Life, however, is not a game show, and dishonesty is not about wrong answers to tricky questions. Dishonesty is deliberately answering the wrong questions to mislead others. While dishonesty does have both communal and individual consequences, ultimately it is the Lord who is the final judge and will determine the consequences.

Choosing honesty over dishonesty is more than a prudent choice based upon the notion that “honesty is the best policy”. While there may be very pragmatic reasons to be honest, for the follower of Christ such virtue is rooted in the knowledge that dishonesty and lying are a violation of God’s divine character and, as such, detestable to Him. Godly people value what God value. They are confident that honesty and truth lead to the fullest benefits of His delight and pleasure.

Our grandchildren are growing up in a world that frequently honors dishonest people, thus creating the image that dishonesty really does pay. Here’s an idea to help create an environment of honesty in your home. Develop an Honor Roll Registry. Use a photo album or journal book to record and honor people who have left a legacy of honesty in the world, and to honor those who are currently modeling honesty and integrity, including your grandchildren and family members. Let your grandchildren know how much God delights in and honors honesty.