Proverb: It is better to be poor and honest than to be a liar and a fool.¹

Honesty is when you speak the truth and your actions are truthful. You are honest when you tell things as they actually happened without making up a story to exaggerate what happened, make yourself sound better, or cover up something you did wrong. Your actions should also be truthful. You should not have to hide what you are doing or try to trick others.

Sometimes it is not easy to be truthful, especially if you have done something wrong and need to admit your error. Even when it is difficult, honesty is always the right thing to do. A small untruth is still dishonest, and it will make it easier to tell bigger untruths.

When you are honest, people will trust and respect you.

Bible Character Highlight

Zacchaeus was a tax collector. He often would charge the people for more money than the actual tax so that he could keep some for himself. Zacchaeus met Jesus and wanted to change his ways. He felt bad about how he had taken from people; he chose to be honest and give back to all those he had taken from. Zacchaeus felt much better after he chose to be honest and do what was right.

Read more about Zacchaeus and Jesus in Luke 19:1–10.

Footnote:
¹ Proverbs 19:1 ERV