A Simple Way Out?

A SIMPLE WAY OUT?

It often seems that the simplest way out of an uncomfortable situation or the easiest solution to a big problem is a little “deception.” Deception, or lies, have become part of most peoples every day conversations.

For example, “I’m really sorry but my husband has suddenly developed a migraine headache and we’ll have to cancel our plans for dinner.”
Or “You know, I really appreciate the invitation to go to prayer meeting but I have to make a report to my boss first thing in the morning and I’ll be working on it most of the night it’s so important.”

Then there’s the “I’m sorry but the manager is away from his desk right now” when he’s hiding behind his door.

And we’ve all heard the familiar phrase, “Well, I gave him the message and I’m sure he tried to get back to you” when the message was immediately discarded.

Unfortunately, the first lie needs a crutch to stand on and then the second requires a brace and the third a wheelchair and the forth a gurney. A lie just can’t stand by itself. It is easy to tell a lie but one is rarely enough. One lie can’t stand by itself. It needs the help and support of other lies.

“Keep me from deceitful ways,” wrote the wise Psalmist. But that is not enough for Christians. So he continued, “Be gracious to me and teach me Your law.”

God’s law also emphasizes the fact that we must speak the truth even when it may cause us problems.

Prayer: Lord, give us courage to keep any lie from leaving our lips and to be bold when the truth hurts. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 119:29 Remove from me the way of lying, And grant me Your law graciously.