2021.09.12 What Does Honesty Really Look Like

Text: Proverbs 19:9, Hebrews 13:18 Opening Statement: Virtue is morally good behavior or character. It is the thinking and the doing of what is good, and avoidance of what is not good. In other words, it is moral excellence. The virtue we are zeroing in on today is honesty, which signifies conveying the truth both in word and in deed. This quality is an essential aspect of God’s own nature and purposes and is expected of those whom He calls His people. A person of integrity is one who follows his or her moral or ethical convictions, and does the right thing in all circumstances, especially when it is not convenient; even when no one is watching. Does anyone tell the truth anymore? What does Honesty really Look Like? I) The Importance of Our Honesty Honesty is of utmost importance in human relations. The honesty that I am talking about is not just informing an umpire that you did or did not tag a base runner out; it is not just truth-telling; it is truth-living. It is the honesty that the prophet Jeremiah sought, (Jer. 5:1 NIV). We live in a world that values tolerance over truth. The age of relativism teaches people to not value truth as a top priority. Isn't it about time that we who call ourselves followers of Christ, the one who called himself "The Truth," become known for our honesty? II) A Biblical Example of Honesty (2 Kings 12) Joash was King of Judah. He noticed that the temple was in need of repair. He places a chest at the entrance door of the temple with an opening in the top so people could drop in their offerings for the temple repairs. How did Joash's building superintendents handle the money? Look at verse 2 Kings 12:15. The NIV states, ". . they acted with complete honesty." That's the kind of people I want if I am building a house or a church. In fact, that is the kind of people I want around me in all of my dealings. Don't you? III) Some Important Observations About Honesty A) Honesty Is Always The Best Policy Four students arrived late to take a test. "And what is your excuse?" inquired th