Lying and cheating go against the very heart of God, who is a God of truth, justice, and righteousness. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible clearly teaches that deceitful behavior is not only destructive to others but also deeply offensive to God.
He calls His people to live lives marked by honesty, integrity, and transparency.
Whether in our relationships, business dealings, or everyday words, God expects us to speak the truth and walk in uprightness.
Here are 15 Bible verses that deal directly with lying and cheating—each followed by a short explanation to help you apply these truths in real life.
Why Truth Matters to God
- God is a God of truth (Titus 1:2).
- Satan is the father of lies (John 8:44).
- Truth reflects God’s character; lies reflect rebellion.
- Honesty builds trust—deceit destroys it.
15 Bible Verses About Lying and Cheating
1. Proverbs 12:22
The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.
Explanation:
God doesn’t just dislike lying—He detests it. But He finds joy in those who speak truth.
2. Exodus 20:16
You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
Explanation:
One of the Ten Commandments directly forbids lying. Honesty is a foundational part of loving others.
3. Leviticus 19:11
Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not deceive one another.
Explanation:
God links stealing, lying, and deception together—they’re all forms of dishonesty that break trust and hurt others.
4. Proverbs 6:16–19
There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him… a lying tongue… a false witness who pours out lies…
Explanation:
Lying makes the list of things God hates. This shows how serious deceit is in His eyes.
5. Colossians 3:9
Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices.
Explanation:
Lying belongs to our old, sinful nature. In Christ, we are called to live in truth.
6. Psalm 101:7
No one who practices deceit will dwell in my house; no one who speaks falsely will stand in my presence.
Explanation:
God does not tolerate dishonesty in those who claim to walk with Him. Truthfulness matters deeply to Him.
7. Ephesians 4:25
Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor…
Explanation:
Honesty is essential for community and unity in the body of Christ. Lying tears relationships apart.
8. Revelation 21:8
…all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.
Explanation:
This sobering verse shows that persistent, unrepentant lying separates people from God forever.
9. Proverbs 19:9
A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will perish.
Explanation:
Lying has serious consequences, both spiritually and in life. God sees every deceitful word.
10. Psalm 119:29
Keep me from deceitful ways; be gracious to me and teach me your law.
Explanation:
This is a prayer asking God for help to live in truth. It shows that honesty is a spiritual discipline.
11. Luke 16:10
Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.
Explanation:
Even small acts of dishonesty matter. God looks at our integrity in all things.
12. Micah 6:11
Shall I acquit someone with dishonest scales, with a bag of false weights?
Explanation:
Cheating in business or finances is called out directly. God desires fairness and honesty in all dealings.
13. Proverbs 20:17
Food gained by fraud tastes sweet, but one ends up with a mouth full of gravel.
Explanation:
Cheating may feel rewarding at first, but it leads to regret, consequences, and emptiness.
14. Zechariah 8:16–17
Speak the truth to each other… do not love to swear falsely. I hate all this, declares the Lord.
Explanation:
God commands us to love truth and hate lies. Honesty builds justice and peace.
15. 1 Peter 3:10
For, “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech.”
Explanation:
Truth brings blessing. This verse connects a good life with guarding our words and avoiding lies.
Final Thoughts: Choose Truth Over Deceit
Lying and cheating damage relationships, dishonor God, and lead to destruction. But truth leads to healing, trust, and the blessing of God’s presence. These verses remind us that God values honesty deeply and calls His people to live with integrity in every area of life.
If you’ve struggled with lying or cheating, remember: there is forgiveness and freedom in Christ. Confess, repent, and let the Holy Spirit lead you into a life of truth.
Call to Action
Which of these verses challenged or encouraged you the most? Have you experienced the power of living with honesty and integrity? Share your thoughts or a testimony in the comments—we’d love to hear how God is working in your heart.