ODJ: telling the truth
May 1, 2010
You must not testify falsely against your neighbor (v.16).
READ: Exodus 20:1-17
Professional integrity and a commitment to excellence are the working philosophies which guide us on a daily basis.” This is one of the introductory sentences from a Web site designed to provide fictional explanations, fake employment references, and verification for unexcused absences. A more accurate sentence would be “professional lying and commitment to providing false testimony are what guide us daily.”
The ninth commandment was designed to protect the Israelite community from such falsehood (Exodus 20:16). When Moses said, “You must not testify falsely against your neighbor,” he was telling them not to deceive a close community companion. The primary idea of “false testimony” was meant to color a situation with something other than the whole truth. The Israelites were to avoid coloring a situation with falsehood to protect themselves, such as lies that ruined reputations, half-truths, and boastful exaggerations.
The immediate context of this commandment was fairness and honesty toward those with whom we have close or even occasional contact. The basic truth of this instruction was personal integrity in our relationships. This command was so important because behind all truth we find the Lord’s character, which cannot be false. Likewise, God wanted His covenant community to deal truthfully with one another. The consequences of not obeying this command were a diluted, weak community and, ultimately, God’s judgment (Psalm 5:6).
How do we live out this commandment today? It begins with developing a deeper reverence for the character of God (Ex. 20:20). Our fear of God helps us to remain truthful and blameless. We must teach others to tell the truth as we submit our heart and tongue to the power and control of the Holy Spirit (Eph. 5:18-21). —Marvin Williams
In what situations are you tempted to color the truth with falsehood? In what area of your life do you need the most help in living out the ninth command? How will you let the Holy Spirit lead you in telling the truth?
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