The Ninth Commandment

The Ninth Commandment “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.” Exodus 20:16 No matter what other faults and weaknesses a person may have, if he is willing to speak the truth, he will at least be respected as a person of truth. This commandment protects every upright and decent person, in that it helps guard reputations. Perhaps there is not a more despicable sin than that of slander, the lie invented and spread with intent to harm another human being. A thief takes only material goods, which may usually be replaced, but a false witness who slanders, may rob one of esteem and reputation in the eyes of others—and chances are slim that a lost reputation will ever be fully regained. In Matthew 5:11 Jesus says, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.” We should never forget that it was through the sin of false testimony and lying, that Jesus Christ was murdered as stated in Mark 14:56 “Many testified falsely against him, but their statements did not agree.” In our own personal lives we need to learn the importance of telling the truth, believing the truth and living the truth. We need to be careful not to base our whole life on a series of lies, or any distortions of the truth. Remember, it is the truth that will make you free John 8:32. Starting a lie about someone, is one of the most destructive things you can do to them, and even though you may apologize, your words can never repair the damage. It is much like tossing feathers into the wind, and trying to recover all of them, your lie will be out in the world and can never be fully recovered. In your personal speech, guard your words carefully, always remembering that what is in your heart is broadcast from your mouth. Robert W. Brock My Daily Devotional Volume Seven​ April 9