Re:Verse passage – Exodus 20:16 (day five)
“You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.”
Each of these commandments teach us something about God and about His design for man to live for His glory.
What does the ninth commandment teach us about God? We learn quickly that only a God of truth can expect and prescribe truthful behaviors from His created beings. I love how John 1 describes this facet of God’s (Jesus’) nature. “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
How can we glorify God by being truthful? The ninth commandment demands that our communication and relationships be grounded in the very character of God (truth). When they are, we become salt and light in our culture and communities. God is then glorified. “so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
Scott, well said! I’d been reflecting this week on how many places God’s character and description always include TRUTH! Your blog made me think back on the years in my career where I’ve tried so hard to live by this, never hiding, never lying to workers, including my boss, and even confessing when I blow it and there is obvious damage done. It works to reflect God’s Glory. I may never know how much.