1Taken with editing from Flavel’s Works, vol 5. It was written for seamen.
Though men may get some present advantages by falsehood, yet hear what the Holy Ghost says of riches obtained this way: “The getting of riches by a lying tongue, is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death” (Prov 21:6). Some trade in lies as much as in wares; indeed they trade off their wares with lies. And this proves a gainful trade (as some men count gain) for the present; but, in reality, it is the most unprofitable trade that any man can have. For it is but the tossing of a vanity to and fro: a phrase meaning labour in vain; it profits nothing in the end. As it profits nothing, it hurts much. Their intention is to seek profit, but they will find death in the end – that is, it will bring destruction and ruin, not only on our trades, but on our souls.
The God of truth will not long prosper the way of lying; one penny got by a laborious hand is better than great treasures got by a lying tongue. Take heed you do not seek death in seeking an estate this way. This sin is destructive to society; for there is no trade where there is no trust, and no trust where there is no truth. Yet this cursed trade of lying creeps into all trades, as if there were no living (as people speak) without lying. But sure it is better for you to be losers than liars. He sells a dear bargain indeed that sells his conscience with his commodity.