• 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 Keep me from deceitful ways; be gracious to me and teach me your law.