We continue with Josh McDowell’s list of ways honesty protects and provides for us.

3. Honesty will protect form the cycle of deceit and provide for a reputation of integrity. Remember Solomon’s words? Lying is a deadly snare because it breeds more lies, more deceit. Like painting yourself into a corner, the dishonest heart is soon trapped by its own duplicity. Richard Nixon’s presidency wasn’t destroyed by the Watergate break-in. It was lost by the lies he told to cover it up. Then he ordered ordered others to lie and created more deceit until he was trapped in his own web. god’s standard of honesty will save a person from a similar fate. He provides a reputation for integrity. “A good name is more desireable than riches; to be esteemed is better than silver of gold.” Prov. 22:1

Family Night by the Book will help you bring integrity to your family name. Your kids will understand the importance of honesty and of their reputation.

4. Honesty will protect from ruined relationships and provide for trusting relationship. There is nothing that will bring down a relationship faster than deceit and dishonesty. Relationships are founded on trust, and trust cannot survive in an atmosphere of deceit. Trust undergirds marriage vows and business arrangements alike with a reassuring, fortifying element.
When our behavior conforms to God’s standards we can experience all the benefits of His protection and provision. Creating guilt and shame and undermining relationships, the counterfiet can never deliver what is deceptively promises.

Here is a way to reinforce the value of honesty with your kids.

Play the “What if” game.  Ask your kids to imagine how the world might be different if everyone told the truth and was absolutely honest in their behavior. (We wouldn’t have to lock things up or chain them down, or install alarm systems, etc.) Guide them from there to a discussion of how honesty protects and provides for us, to reinforce the evidence of the truth of honesty. Every time your child hears an alarm or locks up a bike he will be reminded of the value of honesty. God is a true God, full of truth. When we are honest we honor him as a God of truth.

Family Night by the Book has a great activity designed to reinforce the learning and have FUN for each lesson. You can start today to change the atmosphere in your home and family.

Blessings,

Beth and Dr. Ron