Why is honesty valued in Proverbs 24:26 and throughout the Bible? A Sweet Kiss of Truth – Proverbs 24:26 “An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips.” • In Solomon’s day a kiss on the lips was a warm, respectful greeting between close friends. Honesty, then, is pictured as an affectionate embrace—something that brings people together rather than driving them apart. • A truthful response blesses both giver and receiver. It communicates respect, trust, and genuine care. Why God Treasures Honesty • Reflects His own nature – “God is not a man, that He should lie.” (Numbers 23:19) – “I am the way and the truth.” (John 14:6) • Upholds righteousness – “Lying lips are detestable to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight.” (Proverbs 12:22) • Protects the vulnerable – “Do not lie to one another.” (Colossians 3:9) • Builds healthy community – “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are members of one another.” (Ephesians 4:25) Blessings That Flow from Truthfulness • Stronger relationships (Proverbs 28:23) • Clear conscience and inner peace (Psalm 32:2) • Credibility and lasting influence (Proverbs 10:9) • Divine favor and answered prayer (Psalm 15:1-2) Painful Results of Dishonesty • Broken fellowship with God (Isaiah 59:2-4) • Shattered trust horizontally (Proverbs 25:18) • Self-deception and hardened heart (Jeremiah 17:9) • Severe discipline (Acts 5:1-11) Practical Ways to Walk in Truth • Let Scripture saturate your mind—truth in, truth out (Psalm 119:11). • Pray before speaking; weigh words against God’s standard (Proverbs 15:28). • Welcome accountability—invite trusted believers to correct you (Proverbs 27:6). • Keep promises quickly; broken vows breed compromise (Ecclesiastes 5:4-5). • Celebrate honesty in others—affirm friends, children, coworkers when they choose truth (Proverbs 27:17). A Closing Picture When lips meet in a sincere kiss, nothing stands between the two faces. Likewise, honesty removes barriers and lets us stand face-to-face with each other—and with the God of truth—without shame or pretense. |
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