The sin of flattery

Pro 18:21 - Death and life are in the power of the tongue

James 3:5-6 - Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. 


The tongue has been the cause of problems and sins in our lives. One of the ways we fail with our tongue is by the sin of flattery.

Flattery is to praise or compliment someone insincerely. I have been guilty of it many times and I am sure many are. Some people talk so well in-front of you, heaping all the praises that only God deserves but behind the scene they were literally tearing you apart. Pastors are usually the victims and are usually roasted over the dinner table. Sadly many pastors are also the perpetrators. Some say to do this is human nature. Well, I would submit this is the manifestation of the unregenerate human nature. That is why James asks in 3:11 - "Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring?" Such things ought not to be found in the spirit filled christian. 


I am reminded of the story of King Jehoshaphat in 1 Kings 22 where he made an allegiance with King Ahab to go to war, in-spite of being advised by the prophet not to do so. This was a clear case of being "unequally yolked". Prior to entering the battle filed, Ahab flatters Jehoshaphat saying that he is the commander in chief and should be dressed as such. Ahab will go into the battle as an ordinary soldier. What a deception, what a flattery. But the unsuspecting Jehoshaphat was taken in by the insincere words. God in His mercy intervened and saved Jehoshaphat but Ahab who schemed the deception and used flattering words did not escape the eyes of the Lord. Someone from the enemy camp drew his arrow at random and hit Ahab. I submit that it was God who directed the arrow. Ahab eventually succumbed to his injuries. 

The Bible has the following warning for those who flatter insincerely: 

Job 17:5 - He that speaketh flattery to his friends, even the eyes of his children shall fail

Psalms 12:3 - May the Lord silence all flattering lips and every boastful tongue.

Jesus said we shall give an account of very words we speak. How can we aviod this sin:

  • Be careful when you praise someone. Give credit when it is due but do it with sincerity.
  • Don't speak evil of another without first speaking to that person
  • If we have an issue with someone, let go direct to the person and resolve it. 
  • If its not the right time, pray about it and let God deal. 
  • If need be share with your leader, only for consultation and advise not to slander.
  • Leave the rest to God.  
Otherwise the darts of flattery will return to haunt us and our families.

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