Proverbs tells us plainly that God despises all forms of dishonesty. Not only does God hate dishonesty, but we are told that it works against us—others no longer trust us, and we cannot even enjoy our dishonest gains. It is wiser to be honest because “the godly escape such trouble” (12:13).
| Others’ Opinions | |
| Leaders value those who speak honestly | 16:13 |
| In the end most people will appreciate truth more than flattery | 28:23 |
Quality of Life |
|
| The godly person’s plans are just | 12:5 |
| Honest witnesses do not lie; false witnesses breathe lies | 14:5 |
| Truthful witnesses save lives; false witnesses are traitors | 14:25 |
| The children of the righteous are blessed | 20:7 |
Short-Term Results |
|
| Tainted wealth has no lasting value | 10:2 |
| The godly are rescued from trouble | 11:8 |
| The wicked are trapped by their own words | 12:13 |
| Fraudulent gain is sweet only for a short while | 20:17 |
Long-Term Results |
|
| Good people are guided by their honesty | 11:3 |
| Truth endures | 12:19 |
| Riches gained quickly don’t last | 20:21 |
| Riches gained dishonestly don’t last | 21:6 |
| The blameless are rescued from harm | 28:18 |
God’s Opinion |
|
| God delights in honesty | 11:1 |
| God delights in those who are truthful | 12:22 |
| God despises double standards | 20:10 |
| God is pleased when we do what is right and just | 21:3 |