From the Book of Proverbs.

The following list contains proverbs that address truthfulness and deceit:

“These six things does the LORD hate: yes, seven are an abomination unto Him: a proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, an heart that devises wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, a false witness that speaks lies, and he that sows discord among brethren” (Prov 6:16-19).

“He that hides hatred with lying lips, and he that utters a slander, is a fool” (Prov 10:18).

“He that speaks truth shows forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit. There is that speaks like the piercing of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health. The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment. Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy” (Prov 12:17-20).

“Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are His delight” (Prov12:22).

“A righteous man hates lying: but a wicked man is loathsome, and cometh to shame” (Prov 13:5).

“A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies” (Prov 14:5).

Also read these Proverbs 17:7; 19:5, 9; 21:6; 25:18; 26:28.

What If…?

We revisit the same great question: what if the entire world obeyed the Ninth Commandment? There would be no more lying. There would be no more propaganda from politicians and world leaders. Everyone could believe every word of the news, as well as from advertisements. Exaggerations, distortions and half-truths would give way to the full truth. Every conversation and every business dealing would be honest—void of all forms of deceit.

All slander and character assassination would cease. People would be known for what they truly are, instead of what is perceived about them because of slander or gossip. People would no longer put up false fronts. Con men and scam artists would disappear.

All this is prophesied to occur in Christ’s 1,000-year rule, as revealed in Isaiah 32:5-6: “The vile person shall be no more called liberal [generous], nor the churl [crude, selfish] said to be bountiful. For the vile person will speak villainy, and his heart will work iniquity [lawlessness], to practice hypocrisy.”