Jerry panicked as the teacher started collecting homework.
“Oh, no! I forgot to do my math homework last night,” he cried to himself.
He felt his stomach drop and grew increasingly nervous as the teacher approached his desk.
The Temptation to Lie
Jerry’s mind raced, searching for an easy way out:
“Maybe I can tell her that my parents were sick, or that some other emergency happened at home.”
He knew this excuse was completely false. However, he also knew that some of his classmates told similar lies to get extra time, and the teacher usually believed them.
At the same time, Jerry remembered what his parents had always taught him: it is always best to show honesty and accept responsibility (being accountable for your own actions and decisions).
Discussion Questions
- What should Jerry do in this situation, and why?
- How does telling a “small” lie to a teacher affect a person’s character and relationship with God?
- What are the long-term benefits of admitting a mistake and facing the consequences?
Private Reflection Journal
What is one thing from this study that you can apply to your life today? Jot down your thoughts below.