The Integrity of the Incredible Family
Honesty – Part 2

Scripture Reading:  Colossians 3:5-10

Key Verse:  Colossians 3:9

Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices

As we continue from yesterday’s devotional I want to emphasize how important honesty is in our homes; whether it is with our spouse, our children, or our parents.  A relationship can handle the blunders of humanity that we all are guilty of and can’t avoid.  However, very few relationships can withstand ongoing dishonesty.  Let’s look at a few reasons why this is true.

            First, honesty is critical because it doesn’t take very many lies before we are known as a liar.  Interestingly, I can seldom find someone who wants to admit to being a liar.  We judge ourselves differently than those around us.  We justify our actions quickly, trying to dismiss any real damage.  But ask yourself:  How often does a person have to lie to me before I consider them a liar?  You must keep this in mind next time you are tempted to lie to your spouse or child.

            Secondly, honesty is critical because once trust is lost, it takes a long time to rebuild it.  It is so easy to forget; trust is lost in a moment of dishonesty but will take months to regain.  Once you put a question mark in someone’s mind about your honesty, it is hard to erase it!  Every word you say will be analyzed and questioned for a long time!  Keep your life and your home free of dishonesty!

Father, I will need your courage to tell the truth and nothing but the truth today.  I want my life to be free of any dishonesty.  In Jesus’ name, amen.