Today on the CBS Early Show they had a feature about the epidemic of lying that has swept our nation over the last 20 years.  It seems that no one wants to speak the truth and accept the consequences of their actions.  So many of our nation’s leaders and role models are setting a negative example for the next generation to follow.

     One of our presidents lied, then confessed,was  re-elected and made millions selling his book . Many of our congressmen and other politicians have lied to protect themselves from the consequences of their actions.  Actors and movie stars are lying in an attempt to save their careers.  Super heros and sports icons are doing it too, ” I promise, I never used steroids, I never gambled illegally, I never touched that young woman.” Criminals are lying to stay out of prison, or worse.   Then they are protected by a law called “double jeopardy”.

     I could make a list of the people we all know I am referring to, but what would be the point?  These individuals have committed everything from adultery to murder.  The truth usually comes out eventually, but by then the damage has been done.  Some of these people then go on to make millions of dollars from book and movie rights.

    Even John Q. Public tends to lie or enhance the truth when it benefits him in some way.  Tell  “little white lies”, or exaggerate the facts; what does it matter?  It doesn’t hurt anyone.  I’m not suggesting that we go around telling everything we know; or speak in ways that intentionally hurt others.  However, the truth will always be the truth and a lie will always be a lie.

     God’s word tells us in John 8: 44 that the devil is the father of all lies.  In bible times lying could get you killed.  Consider Ananias and Sapphira in Acts chapter 5.  In Exodus 20:16 we are told not to bear false witness against our neighbors. This may be an Old Testament commandments, but it still applies today.  So why do we think it’s okay to lie?

    God’s word also tells us that we will reap what we sow (consequences) and that the truth will make us free.  Years ago a man’s word was as binding as a legal contract.  What has happened to “honesty is the best policy”?