Since my dad and mom were both preachers, I spent a fair amount of time in church. And since both were good preachers–and knowledgeable–I even listened to what they had to say. Daddy’s approach was intelligent, logical and humorous while Mom sparked her sermons with occasional fire-breathing, pulpit-pounding moments. Neither had a problem with sleepers in the pews.

I learned that the Bible states repeatedly that wisdom begins with recognizing who God is. Some translations call it “the fear of the Lord.” It’s the recognition that God made the universe, controls the universe, set standards for the universe–and he could squash you like a bug without even breaking a sweat.

We’re obviously not on the wisdom path at the present moment. Nowadays people have decided they’re their own Gods, setting their own standards–now called values–and wouldn’t think of disciplining their adorable selves–so anything goes.

For one instance, the Bible votes for truth and against lies. In this political season, have you sifted the media reports for truth? Pretty slim pickings, eh? And all whilst reporters pontificate about being keepers of the truth!

Lying’s in style. Big time. And the rationalizations that it’s all for the good could stun a woodchuck.

But here’s the real deal: Lying is stupid. Every lie digs a hole. The old rule said upon finding yourself in a hole, quit digging. The new rule says to pile on more lies to make it look good–stupid squared.

Sometimes lying looks like the easy way out, but stupidity has a price, and you will pay it. Guaranteed.

On the other hand, wisdom has rewards, and you will receive them. It’s a better deal all around.