Let Your Yes Mean Yes - In the Morning When I Rise

Lord, what can I learn from your Word about the impact of telling lies?

The tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself. Truthful words stand the test of time, but lies are soon exposed. I detest lying lips, but I delight in those who tell the truth.

James 3:5-6; Proverbs 12:19, 22

How can I learn to speak with genuine truthfulness?

Reject all shameful deeds and underhanded methods. Don’t try to trick anyone or distort my word. Tell the truth before me. Never take an oath, by heaven or earth or anything else. Just say a simple yes or no, so that you will not sin and be condemned. Anything beyond this is from the evil one.

2 Corinthians 4:2; James 5:12; Matthew 5:37

What can I pray to confess lies and untruth?

I was born a sinner—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me. But you desire honesty from the womb, teaching me wisdom even there. Take control of what I say, O LORD, and guard my lips.

Psalm 51:5-6; Psalm 141:3

Think back over the past week. Did you ever say you would do something—such as praying for a friend or setting a time to get together—but not follow through? Were there any commitments you made but bailed on at the last minute? Today, be intentional about letting your yes mean yes. If there was anything this past week you didn’t follow through on, set aside time today to keep your commitment.