THE PROPER WAY TO WITNESS

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In Christ, Mark

The scriptures. May God bless the reading of His holy word.

An honest witness tells the truth, but a false witness tells lies.

An honest witness does not deceive, but a false witness pours out lies.

A truthful witness saves lives, but a false witness is deceitful.

A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will not go free.

A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will perish.

A corrupt witness mocks at justice, and the mouth of the wicked gulps down evil.

A false witness will perish, but a careful listener will testify successfully.

Proverbs 12:17, 14:5, 14:25, 19:5, 19:9, 19:28, 21:28

This ends this reading from God's holy word. Thanks be to God.

“You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.” Exodus 20:16

When God gave His Ten Commandments to Moses to pass onto His chosen people Israel, this command was included. It was among others that ordered the people to not murder or commit adultery or steal and this should show you how much the Lord hates falsehood of and kind, but particularly when it comes to bearing witness against another. And in this command, neighbor is used in a sense broader than just someone living next door or across the street. It means anyone we relate to whether personally or professionally.

So what are the characteristics of someone who is false or corrupt in the way they witness about others? Look at these proverbs:

1. They are a liar.

A false witness tells lies. Proverbs 12:17b

A false witness pours out lies. Proverbs 14:5b

2. They are deceitful.

A false witness is deceitful. Proverbs 14:25b

3. They mock justice with their behavior.

A corrupt witness mocks at justice. Proverbs 19:28a

If this describes you, then you have been a person who can be counted among those who have committed false witness against another and thus violated God’s commandment, something He doesn’t take kindly to. We know this because of the consequences we find in our selected proverbs today for a false witness will not go unpunished. Look at what that punishment will entail:

1. A loss of freedom.

Whoever pours out lies will not go free. Proverbs 19:5b

2. Perishing.

Whoever pours out lies will perish. Proverbs 19:9b

A false witness will perish. Proverbs 21:28a

You see one who chooses to be a purveyor of falsehoods has also chosen bondage to sin and wickedness which only leads to destruction and perish. It’s as simple as that.

This should be enough deterrent for any of us to change our ways and opt to always exercise integrity, telling the truth, denying dishonesty, and defaulting to honesty in each and every situation in life we face. For this and this alone is the proper way to witness.

Amen.

In Christ,

Mark

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