Maybe you faked being sick so you didn’t have to go to school and or work? Perhaps you exaggerated slightly to avoid being blamed for a mistake or oversight? Or did you flat out lie to your parents, creating a fictional story which rescued you from being grounded? If you are like me, there were times in my past when I thought I got away with a lie. However, future consequences, events and trials suggest that God was watching and I did not escape His punishment.
Genesis 27 provides a perfect case study for someone who thinks they got away with a lie. Rebekah is the mastermind of this initial lie, trying to steal Isaac’s blessing from Esau. While ease dropping, she overhears Isaac’s request for his favorite meal. Once Esau leaves his father’s presence, Rebekah lays out her plan to deceive the blind, but not deaf Isaac. With meal in hand, fake hair and one of Esau’s favorite outfits which he wasn’t wearing, Jacob tricks his curious father into the blessing he longed to receive. The plan was executed with perfection or was it?
Upon hearing he had been duped by his twin brother, Esau sobs, begging Isaac for another blessing, yet he is denied. Genesis 27:41 reveals Esau’s ploy for revenge, murder. When she heard this through the grapevine, Rebekah ushers Jacob quickly out of their house to stay with her brother Laban until Esau’s anger cools off. However, Uncle Laban teaches Jacob a few lessons about lying, Genesis 29:15-30, possibly in response to his sister’s foolish actions.
The answer to the question, did I get away with it or not is found in Deuteronomy 30:17-18. Whenever you add or subtract from God’s commands, Deuteronomy 12:32, you forfeit God’s favor. While forgiveness will be received after confession, God’s formula for blessings in life is simple, fully obey God’s commands, decrees and laws, Deuteronomy 28:1-2. When you rely on your own strength, this is impossible, Romans 3:23. Yet, in Christ, Philippians 4:13, with sole dependence on Him, 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, God’s power is unleashed. Therefore, the next time you are tempted to exaggerate, falsify or lie, remember to place your faith in God, Proverbs 3:5-6, so that He alone will make your paths straight.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 