Emotionally Healthy Woman Quit#2: Quit Lying

Intro:

How have you done this week with working to Quit Being Afraid of What Others Thing?

Have you been better this week looking to God for your validation and “okayness”? \

What about allowing the love of God to penetrate deeply enough to free you from being afraid of what others think?

Today we are going to move on to our second Quit. But i want to ask another question:

T/F Question:

Lying is a great part of our world?

Why do you think its true? Why do you think its false?

What are some of the areas where lying is so visibly prevalent?

Politics, business, marriage, dating, income tax returns, job applications, advertising, families, friendships, school

What about in the Christian community?

Examples:

You greet someone with a big smile/hug but reality is you can’t stand that person.

“We’re doing just fine in our marriage” when the relationship is icy and cold.

You say, “Oh I can’t come. I’m too busy , when the truth is you prefer not to attend the event.

What do you think about this statement:

Lying and pretense is so deeply ingrained that we rarely notice it.

Every family, culture, has its own unique way of spinning half-truths, withholding facts, and avoiding awkward moments.

What are some ways in which we lie?

Our words

Our smiles

Our bodies

Our silence

Do you think its possible for the church to promote lying?

If so—HOW?

READ: Faith’s Baby Dedication

Degree of Truth/Degree of Freedom

John 8:31–32 NLT

31 Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. 32 And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

John 8:31–32 ESV

31 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

Part of God’s plan from the beginning has been for humans to live in truth!

As followers,

The degree to which we live in truth is the degree to which we are free.

Spiritual warfare wages around this issue.

What does Paul say in Ephesians 6:12-14

Ephesians 6:12–14 NLT

12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness.

Psalm 51:6 NLT

6 But you desire honesty from the womb, teaching me wisdom even there.

What does God desire from us?

When we lie, in who’s domain do we live?

John 8:44 NLT

44 For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies.

Lying to Self

Lying to Others

Lying to God