There is much dishonesty in the world. Dishonesty is found in the
religious world as well as in politics, the business world, educational institutions and social circles. We are faced with many temptations to be dishonest in various ways. However, as Christians we are not governed by the same principles that regulate others. The principles by which we are governed are those taught in the New Testament of
Jesus Christ. Let us now consider some Scriptures that deal with the subject of honesty and "providing things honest".

1. "But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the Word, keep it and bring forth fruit with patience." (Lk. 8:15). Do you have an honest and good heart?

2. "Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business." (Acts 6:3). Seven men of honest report were to be looked out and appointed over the business of serving tables.

3. "...Provide things honest in the sight of all men." (Rom. 12:17). We have this responsibility!

4. "Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men." (2 Cor. 8:21). Many fail in doing this.

5. "Now I pray to God that you do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that you should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates." (2 Cor. 13:7). It was Paul's desire that all saints do that which is honest. All saints should!

6. "Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles, that whereas they speak against you as evil doers, they may by your good works, whichthey shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation." (1 Pet. 2:12). Our demeanor among others should be honest so as to influence them to glorify God.

7. "Let us walk honestly as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying." (Rom. 13:13). Our walking should always be honestly as in the day.

8. "That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without..." (1 Thes. 4:12). It is our duty to walk honestly toward outsiders!

9. "... In all things willing to live honestly." (Heb. 13:18). Living dishonestly should not occur in the lives of Christians!

10. Read Phil. 4:8 -- We learn from this passage that we should think on honest things!

We should be honest in our business dealings. We should be fair and pay our debts! The Psalmist declared that "The wicked borroweth and payeth not again..." (37:21).

In our daily activities we should act and speak with honesty. Never hypocritically or with deceit!

By Carrol R. Sutton.

Return to the General Articles page