We should be clear that the devil is at work whenever we are tempted to deviate in the slightest degree from strict honesty. Are we inclined to exaggerate? Do we want to suggest that the evidence is stronger or weaker than it is? By letting unjustified words come out of our mouths we damage ourselves; false oaths are so often a mask for dishonesty. If the word ‘yes’ is not enough to convince, simply repeat it. Do not be tempted to go beyond this and add an oath. Even the word ‘honestly’ may be unnecessary; it may only casts doubt over our honesty on those occasions we do not use the word. Why is it necessary? Shouldn’t others expect you to be honest at all times? There must be good reason to use such a word, and sometimes there is, but we must weigh our words, for what we allow to come out of our mouth will determine the integrity of our hearts. The mouth is a gateway to the soul. When something is allowed to go out of it that is less than honest, actually something has entered the heart through it – deceitfulness.