Proverbs 10:18 (KJV)
He that hideth hatred with lying lips, and he that uttereth a slander, is a fool.
Our anchored Scripture teaches us the importance of honesty and integrity in our interactions with others. It serves as a warning against deceit and slander, urging individuals to cultivate honesty and kindness in their speech to maintain trust and integrity. Deceitful behavior and slander could easily disrupt the stability of close-knit relationships, making integrity and honesty crucial for promoting peace and harmony. The wise might conceal their hatred behind silent lips, while the fool resorts to deceitful words to mask their feelings. This foolishness is evident in their misguided attempts to hide their true contempt. Concealing hatred and spreading falsehoods not only harms others but also reveals a lack of wisdom and moral character. Instead of harboring ill feelings and lying, we should strive to communicate truthfully and lovingly, fostering genuine relationships and promoting peace. Our words have the power to build up or tear down. Proverbs 26:24-26 says, “He that hateth dissembleth with his lips, and layeth up deceit within him; When he speaketh fair, believe him not: for there are seven abominations in his heart. Whose hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness shall be shewed before the whole congregation.” There are many whose outward behavior appears friendly and charming, but their hearts are filled with deceit and malice. We should not be easily swayed by flattering words or charming speech but rather seek to understand the true character and intentions of those around us.
In our daily life, honesty and integrity are highly valued. Speaking truthfully and maintaining a good reputation is essential for our honor and social standing. People can disguise their intentions temporarily, but consistent behavior over time is harder to fake. Consistency between words and actions is a key indicator of genuine intentions. If our actions frequently contradict our words, it may be a sign of deceit. Psalms 101:5 says, “Whoso privily slandereth his neighbour, him will I cut off: him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer.” The importance of maintaining integrity and humility in our interactions with others can’t be underestimated because slander can deeply harm relationships and trust. Psalm 15:1-2 says, “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.” We find that the more we practice godly living and set our minds on serving God, the less we enjoy being slanders ourselves and with those who are wicked in speech and action. As children of God, we submit our will to God’s will, accepting that we are accountable to God and will stand in judgment before him when this life is over. Doing the will of God is one of the great evidences of eternal life that makes our calling and election sure.
Beloved, hatred is a grave sin, slander is genuinely foolish, and people who do so are fools. Cultivate a habit of honesty in your daily life, for honesty builds trust and strengthens relationships. Strive to be better, fostering love and honesty in all you do. Make a conscious effort to speak truthfully in all your interactions. Be mindful of your words and avoid spreading rumors or speaking negatively about others. If you find yourself in a situation where gossip occurs, try to steer the conversation towards a more positive topic or excuse yourself from the discussion. Carefully avoid spreading false information or speaking negatively about others. Avoid using deceptive tactics or spreading false information to resolve disputes. Instead, seek resolution through open and respectful communication. Commit to using your words to uplift and encourage those around you. Compliment, express gratitude, and offer support to others. Positive reinforcement can have a powerful impact on your relationships. Regularly examine your thoughts and emotions. If you notice feelings of resentment or bitterness, address them rather than letting them fester. Seek God’s wisdom in your interactions with others. Pray for discernment to navigate challenging situations with grace and integrity. Ask for the strength to avoid spreading falsehoods and always be a source of truth. Surround yourself with people who hold you accountable for your words and actions. Be wise, for you will account for every word from your mouth. Remember, by integrating these principles into your daily life, you’ll not only improve your relationships but also create a more positive and supportive environment for everyone around you.
O Lord, help me guard my tongue and speak only words of truth and kindness in Jesus’ Name.