Key Bible Verse: Truth stands the test of time; lies are soon exposed (Proverbs 12:19). Bonus Reading: John 8:31-36

During my mid-twenties, when people asked me if I played any sports in high school, I'd always say, "Yeah, I ran track and played soccer." Technically, that was true. I'd run around the track and I did play soccer—in P.E. class. I was never on either the soccer or track team at good ol' Tucker High school.

But somewhere along the way I'd begun believing that a real, respectable, worthwhile man had to have accomplished something athletically. Every time I told that lie, I felt terrible and vowed not to repeat it. But I couldn't bring myself to look somebody in the eye and say, "No, I never participated in a team sport."

Finally, during my third year in seminary, of all places, I was forced to deal with this character flaw. A friend of mine rushed up to me at church and said he had some great news: he thought because of my athletic experience he could work it out for me to become chaplain for the SMU football team. My heart sank down into my socks. My friend was thrilled. And I felt like throwing up.

That's when I knew I had a real problem. After a week of real soul searching, I got busy replacing those lies with truth, and soon I was free.

—Andy Stanley in Louder than Words

My Response: From what entangling deception do I need to break free?

Thought to Apply: You didn't tell a lie, you just left a big hole in the truth.—HELEN THOMAS (journalist)

Adapted from Louder than Words (Multnomah, 2004) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

I realize, Lord, that You desire honesty from the heart. But I kid myself and fudge the truth to impress others. Help me to change.

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