Tell the Truth
Even when it costs you.
Honesty is the foundation of trust — and trust is the foundation of everything else.
The big idea
A small lie costs more than the worst truth.
What does “Tell the Truth” walk through?
Speak Truth
Ephesians 4:25 · KJV
Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour.
In plain English
Drop the lying. Speak truth — to your neighbor, your friends, your family.
Compounding Damage
A small lie now demands a bigger lie later. And another. Truth feels expensive in the moment, but lying compounds. The cost adds up. The truth — even ugly — is cheaper over time.
Lying Lips
Proverbs 12:22 · KJV
Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.
In plain English
God hates lying. He delights in those who deal honestly.
“Truth told costs less than truth hidden.”
Truth in Love
Telling the truth doesn't mean saying every harsh thing you think. It means saying what's true, kindly, even when it's hard. The 'in love' part is non-negotiable. So is the 'truth' part.
Pray
Lord, make me honest. Even when it costs. Especially when it costs. Don't let me hide behind small lies that grow into big ones.
Write it down
Is there a truth you've been avoiding telling someone? What would it look like to bring it up?
You finished: Tell the Truth
Honesty is short-term hard, long-term easy. Pay the cost now. Reap the trust later.
Which passages does this journey use?
2 passages, drawn from Ephesians 4:25, Proverbs 12:22. Every verse appears here in the King James text with a plain-English line beside it, so you can read it without a commentary open. Allow about 5 minutes for the whole thing, or 6 short sittings.
- Ephesians 4:25
- Proverbs 12:22
Read any of these in full on the complete KJV, or look the wording up independently at Blue Letter Bible.
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