HONESTY

John Jr and Jade were learning about Jesus' teachings on honesty. Jesus wants us to be honest in our speech and keep our promises. In 1 John 3:18, Jesus says, 'Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.' Jade told John Jr that they need to be truthful in their words and actions, even when it is hard. They decided they would be more honest.

John Jr and Jade thought of times they were not honest. John Jr told about a time he lied to his mom about getting into the cookie jar before dinner. John Jr ate three cookies before dinner. His mom knew he wasn't truthful since he had no appetite for his dinner. John Jr felt bad about lying to his mom.

Jade told about a time he blamed someone else for something he had done. Jade picked his neighbor's flowers and blamed it on his friend Vixen. His neighbor was very upset with Vixen. Jade felt guilty for not telling the truth. He realized it was wrong to blame others for his actions.

John Jr told Jade about the two commandments that say not to steal and not to lie. John Jr decided they would practice being more trustworthy. They would be straightforward and not lie, cheat, or steal. Jade shared a Bible verse, Proverbs 12:22, 'The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.' They both agreed to follow these teachings.

Jesus taught people that the truth will set them free from slavery to sin, self-rule, and self-justification. John Jr and Jade thought about what this meant. They realized that being honest would make them feel free and happy. They wanted to be truthful with God and with others. They felt that honesty was a gift.

John Jr and Jade decided that it was very important to be truthful with God. They prayed and asked for help to be more honest. They wanted to follow Jesus because he is the truth. They felt closer to Jesus when they were honest. They promised to always tell the truth.

John Jr and Jade started practicing honesty every day. They told the truth even when it was hard. They kept their promises to each other and to others. They felt proud of themselves for being honest. They knew Jesus was happy with them.

John Jr and Jade felt like they had a new beginning. They were happy and free because they were honest. They knew they could trust each other. They thanked Jesus for teaching them about honesty. They promised to always follow his teachings.