Why do people lie? We asked that question in Sunday school and received several answers. Here are the top three:To get away with something we know is not right.
To cover up something we did wrong.
To get someone's approval.
Although deception and lies are the devil's tools, many stories in the Bible are about people who are not honest. Jacob deceived his father by taking Esau's birthright, and his sons fell into the same sin. They lied to him about Joseph. When Jacob showed more love to him by making a colorful coat for him, their jealousy got the best of them.
Joseph's brothers thought if they got rid of him, their father's love would fall on them. Wrong! They sold him into slavery. Then they had to kill a goat and dip the beautiful coat in the goat's blood. When the sons showed the coat to Jacob, they expected to receive his affection. But their plan backfired on them. The thought of Joseph's loss broke Jacob's heart, and in his grief, he withdrew from his family. He could not be consoled. Read the story in Genesis 37:12-36.
Think About It
Sometimes we might want something so much we lie to get it, but our dishonesty hurts the ones we love. It hurts God, and it hurts us. The next time you want something so much you have to lie, think about who it will hurt. It always hurts someone, most likely those you love.
Pray About It
Father God, please forgive me for my dishonesty. I want to tell the truth because I love you and others. Help me do what's right by being honest. Amen.
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