Bible verses about
Honesty
In Paul’s closing in his letter to the church at Philippi, he includes, “whatsoever things are honest” in his list of items of things to think about “if there be any virtue and if there be any praise” (Philippians 4:8 KJV).
Throughout the Scriptures, God’s loving kindness and salvation are associated with His truth. Since God is a God of truth (Psalm 31:5), honesty is a hallmark of those who belong to His kingdom.
The LORD has an eternal reward for the honest
Proverbs 12:19-20, 22
Truth’s lips will be established forever, but a lying tongue is only momentary. Deceit is in the heart of those who plot evil, but joy comes to the promoters of peace. Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who do the truth are his delight.
Honesty is a virtue worthy of praise
Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honorable, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report: if there is any virtue and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
Honesty is a true testimony
Proverbs 12:17
He who is truthful testifies honestly, but a false witness lies.
Even Jesus’ enemies recognized that He was honest
Matthew 22:15-16
Then the Pharisees went and took counsel how they might entrap him in his talk. They sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are honest, and teach the way of God in truth, no matter whom you teach; for you aren’t partial to anyone.”
Honesty in my business testifies to my relationship with God
Proverbs 16:11
Honest balances and scales are the LORD’s; all the weights in the bag are his work.
Honesty is a key attribute of those who work effectively for God
Luke 8:15
Those in the good ground, these are those who with an honest and good heart, having heard the word, hold it tightly, and produce fruit with perseverance.
Honesty is not always believed or appreciated
John 8:45-47
But because I tell the truth, you don’t believe me. Which of you convicts me of sin? If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me? He who is of God hears the words of God. For this cause you don’t hear, because you are not of God.
Honesty brings freedom
Proverbs 19:9
A false witness shall not be unpunished. He who utters lies shall perish.
Honesty may be difficult and painful
Romans 9:1-2
I tell the truth in Christ. I am not lying, my conscience testifying with me in the Holy Spirit that I have great sorrow and unceasing pain in my heart.
Actions, not words, prove our honesty
Genesis 42:10-11, 18-20
They said to him, “No, my lord, but your servants have come to buy food. We are all one man’s sons; we are honest men. Your servants are not spies.” Joseph said to them the third day, “Do this, and live, for I fear God. If you are honest men, then let one of your brothers be bound in your prison; but you go, carry grain for the famine of your houses. Bring your youngest brother to me; so will your words be verified, and you won’t die.”
