Telling the truth, especially to those in power, is often dangerous. People don't like to be challenged, and they dislike intensely hearing the truth about themselves. Jeremiah made himself very unpopular by doing so, and death threats soon followed. He could have had an easy life by joining the throng of false prophets that made a living telling the king exactly what he wanted to hear. But Jeremiah was a prophet of God and was not for sale. Being a truthful and honest person may not always win popularity contests, but it is pleasing to God and we become far better people.

Telling the truth got John the Baptist thrown into prison. Herod did not like having his character and behaviour challenged publicly, and yet he felt the attraction of John's words. But Herod was ruled by his desires and emotions, and he was very careless with his words. He made a rash and foolish promise, and to avoid shame and embarrassment he ordered the execution of John the Baptist. Not only could Herod not stand to hear the truth, he could not live by it. He did what he knew was wrong because of pressure from his peers and his culture. Truth is demanding and does not like to be watered down or compromised in any way. Living truthfully sets us free.