CHEATING: THE ATTITUDE AND LIFESTYLE OF THE DISHONEST
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Proverbs 11:1
Supporting Texts: Leviticus 19:11, Luke 16:10, Proverbs 20:23, 2 Kings 5:20-27
INTRODUCTION:
Cheating is a reflection of dishonesty — a deliberate act of deception to gain an unfair advantage, whether in academics, business, relationships, or even spiritual matters. It is rooted in a lack of integrity and a disregard for truth. In God’s eyes, cheating is not a clever tactic but a sin that pollutes the soul and provokes divine displeasure.
In a society where corruption is often excused or normalised, many see cheating as a way of survival. However, the Word of God presents it as a lifestyle that brings shame, loss, and ultimately, judgment. Cheating reveals the condition of the heart and reflects one’s true character before God.
This study exposes the nature of cheating, its effects, and why every believer must reject it. God calls us to honesty, transparency, and righteousness — not only when seen by others but especially when no one is watching.
1. CHEATING IS ROOTED IN A DISHONEST HEART
Cheating is not merely an action; it begins in the heart and mindset of a person who lacks integrity.
a) It comes from a deceitful spirit: Jeremiah 17:9 – “The heart is deceitful above all things...”
b) It reflects a lack of the fear of God: Proverbs 1:7 – “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge...”
c) It thrives in darkness and secrecy: John 3:20 – “For everyone who does evil hates the light...”
d) It shows unfaithfulness in little things: Luke 16:10 – “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.”
Biblical Example:
Gehazi, Elisha’s servant, secretly went behind his master to collect gifts from Naaman. His dishonest act brought leprosy upon him and his descendants (2 Kings 5:20-27).
2. CHEATING IS AN ABOMINATION BEFORE GOD
God detests dishonest dealings in any form. Cheating is a violation of His standard of righteousness.
a) God condemns unjust gain: Ezekiel 22:13 – “Behold, therefore I have smitten mine hand at thy dishonest gain...”
b) False measures are abominable to Him: Proverbs 11:1 – “A false balance is abomination to the LORD.”
c) It defiles the land and the people: Leviticus 19:11 – “Ye shall not steal, neither deal falsely...”
d) It invites divine judgment: Proverbs 20:23 – “Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD.”
Biblical Example:
Ananias and Sapphira lied to the apostles and cheated concerning their offering. God struck both of them dead for their dishonesty (Acts 5:1-11).
3. CHEATING DESTROYS CHARACTER AND TESTIMONY
The dishonest person damages not only their reputation but their spiritual standing and influence.
a) It ruins your credibility before others: Proverbs 22:1 – “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches.”
b) It makes one unreliable and untrustworthy: Psalm 101:7 – “He that worketh deceit shall not dwell within my house.”
c) It opens doors to other sins: One act of cheating often leads to lying, bribery, and hypocrisy.
d) It destroys future opportunities: Dishonest gain may bring temporary success, but long-term ruin.
Biblical Example:
Jacob’s early life of deceit cost him years of sorrow. Though God later changed his name and destiny, his cheating brought pain and delay (Genesis 27-32).
4. GOD HONOURS HONESTY AND INTEGRITY
Believers are called to be light in a corrupt world, living lives of truth and righteousness.
a) Honesty attracts favour and peace: Proverbs 12:22 – “Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.”
b) Integrity protects from shame and loss: Psalm 25:21 – “Let integrity and uprightness preserve me...”
c) God blesses faithful stewards: Matthew 25:21 – “Well done, thou good and faithful servant...”
d) The righteous leave a lasting legacy: Proverbs 20:7 – “The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.”
Biblical Example:
Joseph refused to cheat or sin with Potiphar’s wife, even in secret. His integrity led to divine promotion and national honour (Genesis 39–41).
CONCLUSION:
Cheating may seem like a shortcut to gain, but it leads to shame, destruction, and separation from God. The dishonest heart cannot walk in fellowship with God who is truth. As believers, we must reject all forms of deception — in school, business, ministry, or relationships — and commit to walking in truth and righteousness.
God is seeking men and women of integrity in a crooked world. Will you be one of them? Let your "Yes" be "Yes," and your "No," "No." Choose honesty, and God will honour you before men and in eternity.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, deliver me from every root of dishonesty in my heart.
2. Father, give me a hatred for every form of cheating and falsehood.
3. Lord, help me to walk in integrity, even when no one is watching.
4. I reject the spirit of deceit and embrace the Spirit of truth.
5. O God, make my life a testimony of righteousness and honesty.
