Several years ago a local rancher sold one of our neighbors a gentle bay gelding that was supposed to be nine years old. Less than six months later, our neighbor was dismayed to find the horse lying dead in his pasture. When the veterinarian informed him that the horse had died of old age and was probably closer to twenty-nine years old, the owner was understandably upset. 

When we are selling a vehicle, do we inform the prospective buyer that the radiator leaks, the transmission slips, or the engine burns oil? Our John Deere tractor may appear to be meticulously maintained, but do we mention the metal filings that flushed out of the differential when we last changed the oil? In other words, do we represent the product honestly, or do we misrepresent it by simply keeping silent about its known flaws? If we are frank and open, of course, the potential buyer may offer us less money than we are asking or may simply walk away. Being honest in our business dealings will sometimes cost us money, but the price of being dishonest is far greater. 

The rancher later admitted sheepishly that he might have mistakenly misrepresented the age of his horse. We can do the same if we neglect to mention all the mechanical problems of our machinery, the weeds in our hay, or the structural problems in our building. Concealing the truth, however, is no different from lying. If we are the buyer, we certainly appreciate when the seller is as honest about the flaws of his product as he is about its good points. 

Providing things honest in the sight of all men is not an option for the Christian. It is a direct command. 

And all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and
brimstone: which is the second death. Revelation 21:8 

~ Pete Lewis