Exodus 19-21, Psalm 23
Exodus 20:16 (NLT)
“You must not testify falsely against your neighbor.”
Exodus 20:16, the ninth commandment, instructs believers not
to bear false witness against another. Giving false testimony—especially in
legal or communal settings—can lead to unjust outcomes, wrongful punishment, or
even death. Truthfulness is essential for justice and social order. Lying
damages reputations, destroys relationships, and ultimately becomes a sin not
only against one’s neighbor but against the Lord.
Many biblical scholars note that this commandment extends
beyond outright lies. It also includes slander, talebearing—repeating a report
without careful investigation—and creating false impressions through silence.
Questioning someone’s motives without evidence and using flattery for
manipulation also violate the spirit of this commandment.
This verse stood out to me because it feels as though we
live in a culture that continually breaks this commandment. People spread lies
on social media without verifying the truth. News reporting often presents only
one side of a story rather than offering a balanced account. In legal cases,
later discoveries sometimes reveal that someone was wrongfully convicted
because the truth was withheld. I have also witnessed this commandment violated
in everyday life—through coworkers undermining one another, people remaining
silent to allow false impressions to stand, or using flattery to gain favor
while harboring ill intent.
At the same time, I have observed that when people break the
ninth commandment, the truth eventually comes to light. When it does, lies
damage relationships and deeply hurt those involved. This verse reminds me that
as a follower of Christ, I am accountable to Father-God for my words.
Truthfulness is foundational to trust and integrity—both in my relationship
with the Lord and with others. My words must reflect both truth and love so
that I do not cause harm.
If this verse resonates with you—if you feel drawn to place
your faith in Jesus Christ, the One who gives us His laws so that we can live
in truth and harmony with one another—this may be your moment. Open your heart
to Him. Speak to Him in prayer, expressing your trust, your desire to walk with
Him, and your willingness to welcome His presence into your life. God is
faithful and ready to meet you exactly where you are.
Heavenly Father, I give You my life. Please forgive me for
all my sins and wash me clean through the blood of Jesus. I believe in my heart
that You raised Jesus from the dead, and I confess with my mouth that Jesus is
my Lord and Savior. Right now, I receive Your forgiveness and the gift of
salvation. Thank You, Lord—I am saved, I am forgiven, I am clean, and I am made
new in Jesus’ name. Amen.
If you prayed this prayer, welcome to the family of Father-God! I encourage you to find and join a Holy Spirit–filled, full-Gospel, Bible-based church where you can grow in your faith and experience the Lord’s love, signs, wonders, and miracles in your life.
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