Ivy
5 Ways to Tell When Someone Is Lying: Biblical Wisdom for Christian Leaders
How can you tell when someone is lying? I’m reminded of my meeting with a client who gave me permission to share his story. “I can’t believe she stole the company credit card!” She seemed so honest and trustworthy.” Unfortunately, she was lying all along; it’s important to look for telltale clues that someone is lying. In business and life, this skill protects your time, resources, and calling. As Christian entrepreneurs and life coaches, we learn to recognize when someone is lying by combining practical observation with spiritual discernment. The Bible encourages wisdom and prudence in all our dealings. Here are 5 powerful ways to tell when someone is lying, plus an action step for each.
1. Inconsistent Details
Liars often change small facts between conversations. Pay close attention to timelines and specifics. Also notice how many times a story changes. If there are two people, separate them and compare their stories to each other. Read here what the bible tells us about a false witness in Proverbs 19:9 (NKJV): “A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who speaks lies shall perish.”
Action Step: Keep short, dated notes after key meetings. Review them before follow-ups to quickly spot inconsistencies.
2. Body Language Clues That Reveal Ways to Tell When Someone Is Lying
Nonverbal signals such as avoiding eye contact, fidgeting, or closed posture often contradict spoken words. Facing away from you or always looking at the door. Sighing or looking at you as if saying, “Does he believe this yet?”
Action Step: Practice active observation in your next three conversations. Note body language while showing respect and grace.
3. Unusual Speech Patterns as Ways to Tell When Someone Is Lying
Over-explaining, vague answers, or excessive use of phrases like “to be honest” can signal deception. Speaking in unusually high or low-pitched tones. Coughing or breathing heavily. Remember, you’re looking for uncharacteristic changes. The bible tells us in Proverbs 14:5 (NKJV), “A faithful witness does not lie, but a false witness will utter lies.”
Action Step: Ask gentle follow-up questions such as “Can you walk me through that again?” to gain clarity.
4. Defensive Reactions That Signal Ways to Tell When Someone Is Lying
Honest people usually respond calmly. Sudden defensiveness or over-the-top emotion often hides the truth. Or they may become unreasonably upset or distant.
Action Step: Stay composed and respond with grace. Use phrases like “I want us to understand each other clearly” to keep the conversation productive.
5. Spiritual Discernment, An Important Way to Tell When Someone Is Lying
The Holy Spirit often gives believers an inner sense of unease when something isn’t right (John 16:13). Pray and ask for wisdom just like King Solomon did. Always listen to your instincts.
Action Step: Spend 10 minutes daily in prayer asking God for discernment in your business relationships.
Valuable Takeaways
Mastering these ways to tell when someone is lying helps you build trustworthy relationships while protecting your Christian business. Combine practical skills with prayerful wisdom for the best results. You don’t have to do this alone; an experienced Coach can guide you through these tough times. Working with a coach skilled in active listening and setting up action steps, the truth will come out. For help with this, set up an appointment at: WeTeachbi.com
Is your Business ready to grow? Don’t miss our LIVE Business Boot Camp with Coach Ivy; get ready for a lively and interactive workshop! Learn more about our Business Bootcamp here:
- Business Bootcamp
- Wednesday at 7 PM LIVE (Last meeting 7-22-26)
- City Church in Sanford, Florida.
Here we will explore:
- Free AI tools
- Social media trends
- And strategies for getting and keeping clients.
For deeper study on wisdom and truth, check out Proverbs 14:15 on Bible Gateway (outbound link).
