We are continuing our look at Truth with Josh Mc Dowell. He uses the analogy of a painter carefully studying his subject and referring to the real person often, in order to accurately capture the original. He says the same is true in helping our kids make moral judgments. “You must employ the Test of Truth which asks, How does it compare to the original? We do that by constantly referring, in principal and precept, to The Original – the person of God Himself.”

What about honesty? Our young people see deceit as an “easy” way to get ahead. “They view dishonesty as a means of impressing their peers and gaining the approval of their parents. They’re not even convinced it’s wrong, and they seldom see the negative consequences of deceit, nor the positive results of honesty. They need to understand the Test of Truth and the Evidence of Truth.”

“Why is honesty praised? Why is it a virtue? What makes it right? We must ask, How does it compare to the original? We must measure it against the nature and character of God, the Source of Truth. God gave us the commandments, You shall not steal. You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor. Do not deceive one another. God made it abundantly clear to His people that lying, cheating, and stealing were wrong. His commands reflect a positive principle, honesty – the quality of being truthful, transparent,  and trustworthy. Honesty is often defined by what it will not do. ‘Therefore, each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor.’ Eph. 4:25

‘…swindlers (cheaters) will not inherit the kingdom of God.’ 1 Cor 6:10

‘The Lord detests lying lips, but He delights in men and women who are truthful.’ Prov. 12:22

Honesty  is a virtue because it springs from the nature and character of God.”

“Honesty is right and dishonesty is wrong because God is true. It is part of who He is. Though honesty may go begging on earth, there is an eternal, universal standard of truth that will not waver or change; ‘God must be true, though every man be proved a liar.’ Rom. 3:4 God is true. There is nothing false in Him. That is what makes dishonesty wrong and honesty right – for all people, for all times, and for all places.”

Family Night by the Book helps you instill the character trait of honesty in your family. We have a lesson that will bring it home to your kids. It is the foundation for healthy relationships and intimacy with God. We are here to support you and coach you to it!

Blessings,

Beth and Dr. Ron