FLATTERY

It’s the words that tickle our ears

And ones we desire to hear…

But flattery stems from an insincere heart

And are words we ought to fear.

It’s so easy to be fooled

Particularly when words are sweet,

And we should always be on guard

So we avoid heartache and deceit.

Flattery has a connotation

With the words fake and insincere,

Since it’s excessive in its praise indeed

Where the gullible lend an ear.

Great swelling words can take advantage

When flattery is used,

To disguise the true intention

And where hidden motives are pursued.

Although we’re to be at peace with all

Rebukes are required sometimes,

As a necessary correction to the soul

So we grow and are refined.

A rebuke is a sincere concern

When actions can lead to trouble,

And the boldness required is sincere

So the person will not stumble.

Let’s not be fooled by flattery

As only God really deserves all praise,

And any achievements we do accomplish

Should be humble where egos aren’t raised.

It’s honorable to encourage each other

And to edify indeed,

When it’s fruitful and when it’s sincere

So we can see each other succeed.

But flattery has a seed of envy

Since its root is not pure or right,

So when we receive or give out compliments

It should flow from a heart of pure delight.

“He who rebukes a man will find more favor afterward that he who flatters with the tongue.” Proverbs 28:23

“Those who do wickedly against the covenant he shall corrupt with flattery; but the people who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits.” Daniel 11:32

“and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple.” Romans 16:18

‘and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage.” Jude 16

“A man who flatters his neighbour spreads a net for his feet.” Proverbs 29:5

“Nevertheless they flattered Him with their mouth, and they lied to Him with their tongue.” Psalm 78:36

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11