Introduction
Before getting into the meaning of Proverbs 12:22, here’s different Bible translations:
King James Version
Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.
American Standard Version
Lying lips are an abomination to Jehovah; But they that deal truly are his delight.
World English Bible version
Lying lips are an abomination to Yahweh, but those who do the truth are his delight.
Proverbs 12:22 Meaning & Commentary
Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight. Proverbs 12:22 (ESV)
The Lord hates lying – it is the opposite nature of God. Jesus Christ was full of Grace and Truth: John 1:14 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.
In the book of Revelation, Jesus is called “Faithful and True”: Revelation 19:11 Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war.
Looking at Proverbs 12:22 again, we see those same characteristics – truth (the opposite of lying) and faithfulness. We know that satan is referred to as the father of lies in The Bible: John 8:44 You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies. This is why The Lord hates lies (lying lips) – it represents the nature and character of the devil!
However, someone who is faithful in word and deed is The Lord’s delight because he represents the nature of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, which we see in Revelation 19:11. Not only are we sons and daughters of God, but we are representatives of Christ to the world: 2 Corinthians 5:20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
When people see our lifestyle, faithfulness, speech, and manner of life, they should know and see that there is something different about us! The difference is Christ in us!
Application
How can we practically apply Proverbs 12:22 to our lives?
We are commanded to put away all forms of lying and falsehood: Ephesians 4:25 Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another.
God also desires that we act faithfully and says that those who do are His delight. We see that a faithful person will abound in many blessings: Proverbs 28:20 A faithful man will abound with blessings, but whoever hastens to be rich will not go unpunished.
There is something about faithfulness that unlocks God’s blessing and brings an increase into our lives. We see the principle of “increase” in The New Testament: Luke 16:10 “One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.”
It can be tempting to get ahead of ourselves and think too far ahead. The danger in this is that we can lose focus on being faithful where we are. Faithfulness is one of the primary keys which unlocks the next level.
Paul the Apostle viewed himself as a steward: 1 Corinthians 4:1-2 This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.
Faithfulness is a requirement to be a good steward. Faithfulness is when we take what God has entrusted to us, manage it well, and consistently cause it to flourish and bear fruit. This is more than finance but includes our gifts, talents, and whatever else God has entrusted to us.
As we manage these things faithfully, we will grow and mature in character, and God will take great delight in us. Then, because we have proven ourselves faithful and good stewards – increase will come to us in every area!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your Word of truth which inspires and challenges me to live a Christ-like life. Help me put away all forms of lying so that I may speak the truth at all times. Help me recognize the areas where I may not have been faithful.
I choose today to be a good steward of all you have entrusted me so that I may receive even more to rule over. I pray this all in Jesus’ name. Amen!
