HelpFinder Bible - Flipbook - Page 176
page A174
Honesty & Integrity continued
self-esteem, taking from them to try to enhance our own position. Cheating at a board
game seems harmless enough to some, but in fact we are robbing someone else of
the affirmation of victory. It is dishonest to pursue a sensual relationship to gain sex or
affection with no intent of returning true affection. Honest people, however, want to give
full measure in return for anything they take. Honesty is being truthful, right, fair, honorable, free from deception, and marked by integrity. When we are honest in all details, we
experience these distinct advantages: (1) a clear conscience; (2) the trust and respect of
others; and (3) God’s blessing. Make the decision to be honest in all areas of life.
Why is it so important to be honest?
• PSA L M 2 4 :3 -4 | Who may climb the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy
place? Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never
tell lies.
We will inherit God’s goodness.
• PR O V E R B S 1 6 :1 1 | The Lord demands accurate scales and balances; he sets the standards
for fairness.
God expects it.
• MAT T H E W 1 2 :3 3 | “A tree is identified by its fruit.”
• PR O V E R B S 1 2 :5 | The plans of the godly are just.
H
• L U K E 1 6 :1 0 | “If you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater
responsibilities.”
HelpFinder
• 1 T I MOT H Y 1 :1 9 | Keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated
their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked.
Honest dealings reveal your character.
Honesty brings a clear conscience.
• DEUTERONOMY 25:13-15 | “You must use accurate scales when you weigh out merchandise,
and you must use full and honest measures . . . so that you may enjoy a long life.” (See note on
page 181.)
God blesses you when you are concerned not about how much you get but about being
honest in getting it.
• PR O V E R B S 1 1 :3 | Honesty guides good people; dishonesty destroys treacherous people.
Dishonesty and deception are a form of bondage because you are always trying to hide
your real motives. There is freedom in honesty because it allows for forgiveness, vulnerability, positive change, and healing.
• R O MA NS 1 2 :3 | Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves.
Honestly evaluating your walk with the Lord is the only way to keep growing in faith.
• PR O V E R B S 6 :1 6 -1 9 | There are six things the Lord hates—no, seven things he detests:
haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that kill the innocent, a heart that plots evil, feet that
race to do wrong, a false witness who pours out lies, a person who sows discord in a family.
Honesty is essential for truth, justice, and trust in all relationships. Truth is revealed and
justice carried out only when people are honest. If you can’t trust friends and family members to be honest, your relationships crumble from distrust and deceit.
• PSA L M 2 4 :3 -5 | Who may climb the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy
place? Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never tell
lies. They will receive the Lord’s blessing and have a right relationship with God their savior.
Honesty is necessary in your relationship with God. Dishonesty, a sin, keeps you from a
close relationship with him and, in fact, puts you at odds with him.
• PSA L M 3 6 :1 0 | Pour out your unfailing love on those who love you; give justice to those
with honest hearts.
Striving for honesty will help you experience the benefits of God’s ultimate justice and
protection.