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“I didn’t exactly lie,” my friend said, “I just didn’t tell the truth.”

Even though she tried to justify her dishonest behavior—and her habit of telling what she considered innocent little half-truths—it led to major problems in her life.

In today’s society, lying and cheating have become rampant—in high schools, colleges, the workplace, the government, churches, and especially the media. It’s hard to know who and what to trust these days.

A lie can come from a single thought, usually with a selfish and self-serving motive. Eve thought she would become wise if she ate from the one tree in the Garden of Eden that God said was off limits. And … well, look how that turned out.

According to USA Today, 91 percent of Americans lie regularly. That’s a staggering statistic. The Bible says, “lying lips are an abomination to the Lord.” That’s a pretty strong statement considering that the word abomination means loathing or something regarded with extreme disgust or hatred.

All my life, I’ve heard the statement, “Your sins will find you out” (Numbers 32:23). I’ve found that to be true, especially with lying. When you tell one—even a little one—you generally must tell another one to cover it up. Then another and another until you forget what even started the whole cycle.

For those of us who claim to follow Christ, He expects honesty. Transparency. Integrity (saying and doing the right thing even when no one is looking). The Word for You Today says, “Guard your thoughts; they become your deeds. Guard your deeds; they form your character. Guard your character; it decides your destiny.”

How do we guard our thoughts, deeds, and character? By submitting them to the Lord and allowing the Holy Spirit to lead and guide us step by step through the journey we call life.

It begins with a choice. Be sure you make the right one. You just might be amazed at how God blesses your efforts.