What is flattery? What does God say about flattery?
Psalm 12:2-3 They speak idly everyone with his neighbor; with flattering lips and a double heart they speak. May the Lord cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaks proud things.
How about those who flatter?
Psalm 5:9 There is nothing reliable in what they say; Their throat is an open grave; They flatter with their tongue.
Yes, flattery is empty and most often used to get something from the one being flattered even if it is only recognition. Worse is to deceive someone to do something harmful to others.
Yet a true and loving compliment is a gift to the receiver. Gentle, loving rebuke is a gift. Gentle, loving correction is a gift.
Proverbs 9:9 Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.
Proverbs 25:11-12 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold, In settings of silver. Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold is a wise rebuker to an obedient ear.
A true compliment can encourage and lift up. We also sometimes do what is called, ‘fishing for a complement.’ I am not good at flattery after this revelation I am glad. Though it has made some angry at me because I didn’t say what they wanted to hear. Please forgive me if I have ever offended anyone reading this but know if you received or receive a compliment from me that it is meant from the heart and true.
Proverbs 27:2 Let another praise you and not your own mouth; A stranger, and not your own lips.
Psalm 19:14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in Your sight.
O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer. Amen
