Let's Talk Manners: Telling The Truth

   

     Liar.... it is not a name anyone wants to be called, but it is a name we can all be called at some point in our lives.  We all deal with the temptation to lie.  Maybe not intentionally, but we do lie.  Have you ever called in sick, when you just wanted a day off work?  Have you ever told someone you would do something, then didn't follow through?   Have you ever embellished a story you were telling about something that happened? Have you told someone you liked their hair or clothing, but really you didn't?     If you said yes to any of these questions... you have lied.

     Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who

             act faithfully are his delight.  ~ Proverbs 12:22

     In society we don't see things as God does.  He sees hatred as murder, lust as adultery, and anything that comes out of our mouth that is not 100% true as a lie.  He knows our hearts.  He can see when we are not being truthful with Him or anyone else.

     Cheating, stealing and manipulating are other ways we can be dishonest.   If you are not dealing with things with integrity and an open honest heart, you are being dishonest.  When you take advantage of someone who is under your authority, you are not being a honest person.  If you cheat during a game by adding or subtracting points, you have no integrity.

       For we aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord's 

       sight but also in the sight of man.~ 2 Corinthians 8:21

    Our children watch us constantly.  They mimic what we do and what we say.  If they see us lying, even about little things, they will think it is okay.  If they overhear you calling your boss and saying your not feeling well and won't be coming to work today, then see you are fine and out playing golf, they will think that behavior is acceptable.  We must be a good example for our children in this area.  They must see us working to be honest and have great integrity.  When we do stumble... and we will... we must apologize and repent, so they will see that we are human, and in need of God's help and forgiveness.  Spend time talking with you children about honesty.  Explain to them that God does not like it when we lie and if we do, we must repent and ask for forgiveness.  If they lie to a person or steal or cheat, they need to also go to the person they wronged and ask for forgiveness.  Be their role model and do whatever you would ask of them.

     Here is our FREE PRINTABLE FOR HONESTY:  

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