Understanding God’s Hatred of Lies and the Call to Speak Truth
What Does the Bible Say About Lying?
In simple terms, the Bible makes it very clear: lying is not just a small mistake or a harmless habit. It is considered a grave sin and an “abomination” (something God utterly detests). The Bible links a lying tongue with deceit, hatred, and destruction, warning that those who lie are going against God’s very nature—because God is truth itself and cannot lie.
Lying: An Abomination to God
Proverbs 6:17 lists a “lying tongue” among the seven things God hates most. This strong language shows just how serious lying is in God’s eyes. It isn’t just a social problem; it’s a deep offense against God himself.
Lying Leads to Harm and Ruin
The Bible connects lying with destruction and violence. Proverbs 26:28 says, “A lying tongue hates its victims, and a flattering mouth works ruin.” Lies can break trust, destroy relationships, and cause pain—just as much as any other harmful action.
Lying Is Opposed to God’s Nature
God is described throughout the Bible as the God of truth. He never lies, and lying goes completely against who He is. Jesus, God’s Son, called Himself “the way, the truth, and the life.” So, when we lie, we’re acting in a way that is the exact opposite of God’s character.
Lying Is a Tool of the Wicked
The words of wicked people are described as deceitful and twisted. Proverbs 10:32 says, “The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked, what is perverse.” In contrast, those who love God are called to speak honestly and do what is right.
Lying Is Self-Deception
The Bible also warns that lying doesn’t just hurt others—it deceives ourselves, too. James 1:22 teaches that if we claim to follow God but don’t control our words, we’re only fooling ourselves.
Examples from Scripture
· Leviticus 19:11: “Do not lie. Do not deceive one another.” This is a direct command from God to His people.
· Proverbs 12:17: “A false witness utters deceit, but a truthful witness gives honest evidence.” God values truth-telling in all situations.
· Psalm 109:2: The psalmist describes being attacked by enemies “with lying tongues,” showing how lies cause real harm.
· Acts 5:3-4: Ananias and Sapphira lied to the Holy Spirit (and to God) and faced severe consequences, showing how seriously God takes honesty.
God’s Delight in Truthfulness
Proverbs 12:22 sums this up perfectly: “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight.” God hates lies, but He is pleased with people who are trustworthy and honest.
· God detests lying: Lying is more than just frowned upon; it’s something God strongly rejects.
· God delights in faithfulness: People who are honest and keep their word bring joy to God.
· Contrast: There’s a clear difference—lying disgusts God, but truthfulness makes Him happy.
Why Is Truthfulness So Important?
1. God’s Nature: God is truth. Lying is the opposite of who He is.
2. Biblical Command: The Ninth Commandment says, “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor” (Exodus 20:16). Lying breaks this command.
3. Integrity: Being honest in what we say and do reflects God’s character and pleases Him.
Living by the Truth
The Bible encourages everyone to “make conscience of truth, not only in words, but in actions.” Speaking the truth brings health and wholeness to relationships and communities. Lies and deceit, on the other hand, bring anxiety, fear, and division.
In summary, the Bible takes lying very seriously because it destroys trust, hurts people, and goes against the heart of God. God calls His followers to be people of truth—to avoid lying in any form and to be known for honesty and faithfulness in all things. When we speak the truth, we not only obey God, but we also reflect His character to the world.
Minister A Francine Green
October 2025
afrancinegreen.com 