BEWARE OF FLATTERY
By Pastor Ayo-Simeon Agbelusi
Flattery is excessive praise often rooted in insincerity. While it may sound pleasant, it is a deceptive tool use by the devil and your enemies that can lead to shame, regret, and poor decisions. Many have fallen victim to it, embracing words that puff them up while unknowingly heading toward destruction.
When you build your confidence on the praise of people, you expose your life to manipulation. The enemy often uses flattery as a subtle weapon—disguising danger with sweet words. That’s why Scripture warns us to walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise (Ephesians 5:15).
It is foolishness to believe that everyone celebrating you has pure intentions. Not all applause comes from a sincere heart, and not all admiration is from God. Flattery can be a trap—especially when it feeds your ego and weakens your discernment.
Consider the warning in Proverbs 7:21-23:
“With her much fair speech she caused him to yield, with the flattering of her lips she forced him. He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter… till a dart strike through his liver… and knoweth not that it is for his life.”
This passage reveals how flattery can lead to immorality, especially among young men and women. It’s a bait—often used to lure the unsuspecting into sexual sin, emotional entanglement, or irreversible regret. But you are not helpless. The love of God is enough to guide you. The more intimately you walk with Him, the more your eyes are opened to truth, and the less likely you are to fall for the devil’s lies.
Prayer:
Father, open the eyes of my understanding. Help me discern truth from flattery, and give me the courage to reject every manipulative praise sent to derail my soul. I receive wisdom to walk in Your light and not be deceived, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
