Slip of the Tongue
“The ice cream van only plays music to let you know that it has run out of ice cream.”
Reference: Everyone lies to their neighbor; they flatter with their lips but harbour deception in their hearts. (Psalm 12:2 NIV)
Explore: “If you sit too close to the TV your eyes will go square.” “If you eat your crusts your hair will go curly.” “The car won’t start unless everyone has their seat belt on.” “The ice cream van only plays music to let you know that it has run out of ice cream.”
It’s interesting how easily these lies slip out of our mouths when we’re talking to children. You maybe able to justify your dishonesty by thinking that you’re looking after their best interest as far as protection and health goes, but is lying ever helpful?
Application: The psalmist declares that everyone lies. I certainly don’t set out to be a liar, but it’s horrifying to realise how easily a lie can form on my lips.
I started keeping check of my words when I read an interesting quote by Mark Twain: “If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything .” I realised how often I have to keep a check on what I say to make sure that it all aligns. If I’m always committed to telling the truth then it doesn’t matter what I say at any time, it should all line up.
I don’t think many of us set out to lie, but we often do so to get our own way or to make ourselves sound better. God declares Himself as the truth. If we want to know how to live better, speaking the truth is a good place to start.
Prayer: Lord, forgive the lies that come out of my mouth. Help me to live in such a way that I don’t have to deceive, but can be open and honest with everyone. Amen.
Watch your words throughout the day. How often are you inclined to lie?
This article was written by Linda Bailey
Linda started theological studies in 1999 in Australia. After working for ten years in various church ministries, she now works as the breakfast producer at 89.9 LightFM - the Christian radio station in Melbourne, Australia. She writes blogs every day about passages she is currently reading in the Bible. Follow her on Google Plus +Linda Bailey or Facebook by clicking the like button on the right of this page.