Is a soul song written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong. It was originally recorded by the Temptations in 1971, re-recorded by the Undisputed Truth the same year. It reminds us that “smiling faces show no traces of the evil that lurks within.”

Paul Ekman (2003) identifies seven universal emotions (anger, fear, disgust, sadness, happiness, surprise, and contempt) that have distinct, recognizable facial expressions across cultures that can be used to differentiate between voluntary (deceptive) and involuntary (natural) facial expressions.

The natural smile, for example, uses around 20 muscles. Liars have problems managing all these and their expressions may seem somehow false. Natural expressions tend to be more symmetrical (balanced), while deliberate expressions are more asymmetrical (looks fake).

Very brief, fleeting expressions (or micro-expressions) are a strong giveaway. If it is hard for a liar to fake individual expressions, it is far harder to shape multiple simultaneous emotions. How-ever, if you watch while you listen, you might notice that some have perfected the art.  

Facial expressions have a ‘trajectory’ of gradually appearing, peaking and fading. In natural expressions this will be a smooth process. In deliberate expression, it will be more jagged or offset, with more sudden changes.

Although natural emotions can appear quickly, they take more time to cool down and fade. Lying is hard work! The liar has to think carefully about what to say as well as how to express it. There are scriptures that remind us that we should be aware of smiling faces.

Proverbs 26:24-26: Warns that a deceitful person may hide their true intentions behind a pleasant demeanor.

Jeremiah 9:4-5: Highlights that friends may deceive one another, showing that not all smiles are genuine.

Matthew 7:15: Advises to beware of false prophets who come in sheep’s clothing, indicating hidden dangers behind a friendly facade.

Psalm 55:21: Describes how smooth words can mask a treacherous heart, emphasizing the contrast between appearance and reality.

Proverbs 29:5: States that a flattering person spreads a net for others, illustrating the danger of deceptive charm.

James 3:14-16: Warns against bitter envy and selfish ambition, which can lead to disorder and falsehood, even among those who appear friendly.