Building Blocks for Life:

Being Honest

Defined•An honest person is someone who is free of deceit, truthful and sincere, genuine, real and respectable.

Memory Verses•Memory verses for this lesson come from the psalms of David and the proverbs of Solomon (Psa. 15:1-2; Prov. 12:22).

Psalm 15:1-2•O Lord, who may abide in Your tent? Who may dwell on Your holy hill? •He who walks with integrity, and works righteousness, and speaks truth in his heart.

Proverbs 12:22•Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who deal faithfully are His delight.

Positive Examples•The Sons of Jacob•Deacons in the Church

The Sons of Jacob•The sons of Jacob were honest in their dealings with the Egyptian official (Joseph) from whom they sought to purchase grain (Gen. 42-43).

Deacons in the Church

•Deacons must be men of good reputation who have proven faithful in their personal lives and in fulfilling their various responsibilities (Acts 6:1-8; 1 Tim. 3:8-13).

Negative Examples•Abraham regarding Sarah•Ananias and Sapphira

Abraham Regarding Sarah•Abraham told a partial truth (lie) to Pharaoh of Egypt and the king of Gerar regarding his relationship with Sarah (Gen. 12:10-20; 20:1-18).

Ananias and Sapphira•Ananias and Sapphira lied about the money they contributed to assist needy saints (Acts 4:32-37; 5:1-11).

Application

•Am I being honest with myself?

•Am I being honest with others?

•Am I being honest with God?

Conclusion & Challenge•Dishonesty is characteristic of sinful men (Isa. 59:1-8). •However, those with good and honest hearts are pleasing to God (Luke 6:45; 8:15).