In what ways can we guard against deceit in our daily interactions? The Psalmist’s Wake-Up Call “Psalm 116:11 — I said in my alarm, ‘All men are liars!’” • The statement is literal and accurate: people—yes, all of us—are capable of deceit. • The verse jars us awake to the ever-present risk of lies infiltrating daily life. • Because God’s Word is without error, we accept this verdict at face value and let it shape our expectations. Why Deceit Matters to God • Deceit reflects the character of “the father of lies” (John 8:44). • Lies destroy trust among God’s image-bearers (Proverbs 26:28). • God “detests lying lips” but “delights in people who are trustworthy” (Proverbs 12:22). Guarding Our Hearts With Scriptural Truth • Saturate your mind with Scripture – “Your word I have hidden in my heart that I might not sin against You.” (Psalm 119:11) – Truth stored up makes lies easier to spot. • Test every claim by the Word – “Test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” (1 John 4:1) – Ask, “Does this line up with clear biblical teaching?” • Trust the Lord above human voices – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) – When God’s Word and popular opinion collide, side with Scripture every time. Practical Daily Safeguards • Slow down before you accept or repeat information – “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak.” (James 1:19) • Check motives—yours and others’ – Are you hearing flattery, manipulation, or hidden agendas? (Psalm 12:2-3) • Seek multiple witnesses – “Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” (2 Corinthians 13:1) • Maintain accountability friendships – “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17) – Trusted believers help you discern half-truths and blind spots. • Keep communication transparent – “Speak truth each one with his neighbor.” (Ephesians 4:25) – Open, honest dialogue starves deceit of hiding places. • Guard your own tongue – “Do not lie to one another.” (Colossians 3:9) – Personal integrity is your first defense; if you won’t lie, you become more allergic to lies. Living as People of Truth • Walk in the light daily (1 John 1:7). • Pray for discernment; God freely gives wisdom (James 1:5). • Remember: Truth is a Person—Jesus Christ (John 14:6). The closer you stay to Him, the less room deceit has to operate. |
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