Telling an untruth about another person in this verse is literally “to break and cut him to pieces with thy lips” according to R. Judah and Ben Melech. That is a brutal image but if you have had it done to you then you realize just how accurate Solomon’s description is. One of the most painful experiences a person goes through is when they are lied about behind their back and have no opportunity to respond or correct the lie. This truth also carries a sense of sharing something about another that may even be true or partially true but unnecessary to speak of. It becomes hurtful gossip. I find his question very revealing, “would you use your lips to mislead?”. The answer to that direct question is very often, “yes”. That may not be the answer spoken but in practice it is what is done. Jesus described Himself as “The Truth”. Lying is nowhere in or near His character. Nor should it be with His children. As we live to usher His Kingdom to earth how we represent Him is the key. As the author of truth does, we too should value it in every situation and reflect Him. Elicott advises us to only mention another’s fault when it is to their benefit. Although there are occasions when that could very well be the case it would never start in the presence of others and even then it would be in rare occasions. Today speak truth and life. #BeTheEdge
“Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” Ephesians 4:15 NIV
