Lying can seem like an easy way out, but the Bible reminds us that honesty is always the best choice. Throughout scripture, God encourages us to speak truthfully and avoid deception in our words and actions. Whether you’re looking for guidance or simply a reminder of the importance of honesty, these Bible verses about lying offer wisdom and insight to help us live with integrity.
1. Proverbs 12:22
“The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.”
God values honesty and integrity, while lying is something He disapproves of strongly.
2. Colossians 3:9
“Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices.”
As Christians, we are called to live truthfully, leaving behind deceit as part of our old nature.
3. Proverbs 19:9
“A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will perish.”
This verse warns that lies lead to consequences, while honesty brings life and integrity.
4. Ephesians 4:25
“Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.”
We are encouraged to speak the truth because lying undermines the unity of God’s people.
5. Psalm 34:13
“Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.”
This verse encourages us to be mindful of our words, avoiding lies and deceitful speech.
6. Leviticus 19:11
“Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not deceive one another.”
God’s laws emphasize honesty, teaching that lying and deception harm our relationships with others.
7. John 8:44
“When [the devil] lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.”
Jesus calls Satan the father of lies, showing the origin of deceit and why it’s contrary to God’s nature.
8. Zechariah 8:16
“These are the things you are to do: Speak the truth to each other, and render true and sound judgment in your courts.”
God instructs His people to speak truthfully and pursue justice, ensuring fairness and honesty in all interactions.
9. Proverbs 14:5
“An honest witness does not deceive, but a false witness pours out lies.”
Honest people are truthful, while those who lie bring harm through their dishonesty.
10. Proverbs 12:19
“Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.”
Lies are temporary and fleeting, while the truth stands the test of time.
11. Psalm 101:7
“No one who practices deceit will dwell in my house; no one who speaks falsely will stand in my presence.”
God declares that deceitful people cannot remain close to Him, emphasizing the importance of truth.
12. 1 Peter 3:10
“Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech.”
A peaceful and blessed life comes from avoiding lies and deceit, speaking truthfully instead.
13. Revelation 21:8
“But the cowardly, the unbelieving…and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur.”
This verse underscores the severe consequences of persistent lying, which separates us from God’s kingdom.
14. Proverbs 21:6
“A fortune made by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare.”
Gains acquired through deceit do not last and can lead to ruin.
15. Jeremiah 9:5
“Friend deceives friend, and no one speaks the truth. They have taught their tongues to lie; they weary themselves with sinning.”
Jeremiah laments a society where dishonesty is rampant, showing the destructive effects of lies.
16. Ephesians 4:15
“Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.”
Truth spoken in love is essential for spiritual growth and maturity in Christ.
17. 1 John 2:4
“Whoever says, ‘I know him,’ but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person.”
Faith and obedience go hand in hand; claiming to follow God but living in disobedience is a form of lying.
18. Titus 1:2
“In the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time.”
God’s nature is the opposite of lies; He is the ultimate source of truth, offering us hope through His unbreakable promises.
prayer for someone struggling with lying
Dear Heavenly Father,
I come before You today, lifting up [Name] who is struggling with the habit of lying. Your Word in Proverbs 12:19 reminds us that “truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.” Lord, I ask that You help [Name] to embrace honesty and turn away from deceit.
Give them the strength to speak truthfully, even when it’s difficult, and guide their heart to seek integrity in all things. Surround them with Your wisdom and peace, reminding them that living truthfully honors You and leads to lasting peace. Help [Name] to rely on Your grace as they grow in truthfulness each day.
In Jesus’ name, I pray,
Amen.
