I am truly excited for 2025—a year brimming with fresh opportunities and challenges—and as we stand at its beginning, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how we can align our actions with God’s Word. One recent experience reminded me of the importance of honesty, even in the smallest matters, and how choosing integrity honors our faith.
In December, amidst the preparations for Christmas, I found myself at a nail salon, a familiar setting for many of us. If you’ve been to one, you know there’s often an extra charge for removing gel polish. That day, I had a bit of gel left on my nails, and when the staff asked where I had my nails done, I instinctively replied, “Oh, I only come here.” It was only later, as they were midway through removing the gel, that the truth surfaced in my mind—I had my nails done in Vietnam during my birthday trip in October.
At that moment, I faced a decision. I could let what I said previously pass unnoticed and avoid the $20 charge, or I could correct myself and face the cost. The Holy Spirit nudged me, reminding me of the call to live truthfully, whether in big matters or small. I immediately apologized and admitted that it had slipped my mind. I was charged the extra fee, but the peace and joy of honoring God far outweighed the monetary cost.
This experience brought Proverbs 12:22 to life:
“The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.”
It can be tempting to dismiss small untruths, thinking they’re inconsequential. But each moment of honesty is an act of worship, a way to align our hearts with God’s desires.
To illustrate, think of our lives as a stained-glass window, each piece representing our choices. When we lie, even in small ways, we cloud the glass, dimming the light that shines through. But honesty keeps the window clear, allowing God’s truth to illuminate our lives and touch others.
As we journey through this year, let us remember the call in Colossians 3:9-10:
“Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.”
Choosing honesty, even when it costs us, is a tangible way to reflect God’s character to the world. It strengthens our relationship with Him and inspires those around us to pursue a life of integrity.
May 2025 be a year where honesty is not just a policy but a testament to our faith and a reflection of the God we serve. In every situation, big or small, let us commit to living as transparent vessels of His truth and love.
| Consider this: Practice Honesty in Every Situation Choose truthfulness in all situations, no matter how small, trusting that every act of integrity reflects God’s character and brings peace to your heart. Anchor Your Actions in Scripture Regularly meditate on verses like Proverbs 12:22 (“The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy”) and Colossians 3:9-10 to guide your decisions and strengthen your commitment to living authentically in Christ. Be a Beacon of Integrity for Others Let your honesty inspire those around you, showing through your actions that living truthfully is a powerful way to honor God and create a positive impact in your community. |