GROW IN FAITH 9 – Truthfulness

Let Your Yes Mean Yes

Opening Prayer

Lord,
You are the God of truth.
Help us speak honestly.
Give us courage to say what is true
and avoid what is false.
Amen.

Part One

Why Truth Matters

In the Gospel, Jesus says:

“But let your yes mean yes and your no, no.”

He means:

Say what is true.
Say it clearly.
Do not twist your words.

Truth builds trust.

When people speak honestly,
relationships grow stronger.

When people lie,
trust begins to break.

Sometimes lies seem small.

An exaggeration.
An excuse.
Blaming someone else.

But even small untruths
can slowly shape the heart.

Scripture

“But let your yes mean yes and your no, no.”
(Matthew 5:37)

Think and Discuss

Why do people sometimes lie?

Is it ever tempting to hide the truth?

How does it feel when someone lies to you?

Is telling the truth always easy?

Listen without shaming.

Part Two

What Happens When We Hide the Truth

Lies often come from fear.

We may fear:

Getting into trouble

Looking foolish

Disappointing someone

Losing something

But hiding the truth creates more trouble later.

It can:

Weigh on our conscience

Damage friendships

Make us anxious

Truth may feel difficult in the moment,
but it brings peace afterward.

God is truth.

When we speak truthfully,
we reflect His image.

Truthfulness is part of loving others.

Guidance for Adults

Encourage honesty without overreacting.
Children are more likely to tell the truth when they are not afraid of harsh consequences.

Part Three

Growing in Honest Speech

Being truthful does not mean saying everything without kindness.

Truth should be spoken with charity.

We can ask ourselves:

Is it true?

Is it necessary?

Is it kind?

When we make a mistake,
we can say:

“I was wrong.”
“I am sorry.”

Honest speech strengthens character.

Each time we choose truth,
we grow in courage.

Even when telling the truth feels costly,
it keeps our hearts clear before God.

Quiet Reflection

Sit quietly for a moment.

Think of a time you were not fully honest.

In your heart say:

“Lord, help me love the truth.”

Remain silent together.

Practise This Week

Choose one:

• Tell the truth quickly, even when it is difficult.
• Avoid exaggerating stories.
• Admit one mistake without excuses.
• Pray before speaking in a tense situation.

Choose one and keep it steady.

Optional Response

Choose one:

Memory
Repeat slowly:
“Let your yes mean yes.”
Say it three times with attention.

Writing
Write one sentence beginning:
“Truth builds…”

Keep it short and thoughtful.

Closing Prayer

Lord,
You are truth and light.
Help us speak honestly and kindly.
Give us courage when truth is difficult.
Keep our hearts clear before You.
Amen.