Many of us try to avoid the current world news, as well as the news from our own country. One hardly wants to open a newspaper or listen to the news bulletins. Every day the news also reports more about what seems to be never-ending crime and corruption.

The next two days we'll discover what Gods Word teaches us about crime and corruption.

Firstly, do not be discouraged. Dishonesty and corruption are nothing new. The Old Testament records several passages in which God expresses his displeasure at dishonesty and corruption while the author of Proverbs strongly rebukes those with cheating hearts and lying tongues.

“Do not cheat when you use weights and measures. Use true and honest weights and measures, so that you may live a long time in the land that the Lord your God is giving you. TheLordhates people who cheat.  Deuteronomy 25:13-16

TheLordhates people who use dishonest scales. He is happy with honest weights. If you are good, you are guided by honesty. People who can't be trusted are destroyed by their own dishonesty. Riches will do you no good on the day you face death, … Proverbs 11:1,3-4a

The Bible teaches us that honesty earns God's blessing. God shows his respect for those who are honest. In fact, God commanded his people to be honest in order to receive his blessing. In Proverbs, honesty in business is linked to a rewarding life.

Honesty makes a good person's life easier but the wicked will cause their own downfall. Proverbs 11:5

Prayer: Lord Jesus, please help me to be honest in everything I do today so that your Name can be glorified. Amen