Honesty
Overview
In giving the Ten Commandments, the Lord declared: “Thou shalt not steal. Thou shalt not bear false witness.” The Church’s thirteenth article of faith states, “We believe in being honest.” To be honest means to be sincere, truthful, and without deceit at all times.
When we are honest in every way, we are able to enjoy peace of mind and maintain self-respect. We build strength of character, which allows us to be of service to God and others. We are trustworthy in the eyes of God and those around us.
On the other hand, if we are dishonest in our words or actions, we hurt ourselves and often hurt others as well. If we lie, steal, cheat, or neglect to give the full amount of work for our pay, we lose our self-respect. We lose the guidance of the Holy Ghost. We may find that we have damaged relationships with family members and friends and that people no longer trust us.
Being honest often requires courage and sacrifice, especially when others try to persuade us to justify dishonest behavior. If we find ourselves in such a situation, we can remember that the lasting peace that comes from being honest is more valuable than the momentary relief of following the crowd.
Related Topics
Scriptures
Scripture References
Scripture Study Resources
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Topical Guide, “Honesty”
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Guide to the Scriptures, “Honest, Honesty,” “Integrity”
Messages from Church Leaders
Videos
“Honesty: You Better Believe It!”
“What Shall a Man Give in Exchange for His Soul?”
“Step 1: Honesty—David’s Story about Sex Addiction Recovery”
Tabernacle Choir Videos
Learning Resources
Church Magazines
Sarah Cutler Chow, “Sliding from the Truth,” Friend, March 2017
Julie Nash, “Karson and the Golden Ticket,” Friend, November 2015
Lorena Moody, “Honest Gabe,” Friend, May 2015
“Honesty and Integrity,” Ensign, July 2013
“Unwavering Honesty,” New Era, February 2011
Patricia A. Jacobs and Francini Presença, “An Honesty Test,” Liahona, July 2009
“Hole Honesty,” Friend, June 2008
“Book of Mormon Story: The Honest People of Ammon,” Friend, October 1996
Alan V. Funk, “The Business of Honesty,” Ensign, July 1996
“Teaching Children to Be Honest,” Ensign, August 1985
Study Manuals
Teachings of Presidents of the Church
Stories
Teaching Resources
Stories and Activities for Teaching Children
“Honesty,” Lesson Helps for Teaching Children
Media
Audio
“Honesty,” Stories from General Conference, episode 36
“Honesty,” Stories from General Conference, episode 62
“Honesty—Ben White,” For the Youth, episode 10