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What Does the Bible Say About Flattery?

Scripture consistently exposes flattery as a weapon disguised as kindness — words meant to manipulate, not bless.

Scripture on Flattery

Proverbs 29:5 Old Testament
"Those who flatter their neighbors are spreading nets for their feet."
Proverbs 26:28 Old Testament
"A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin."
Psalm 12:2-3 Old Testament
"Everyone lies to their neighbor; they flatter with their lips but harbor deception in their hearts. May the Lord silence all flattering lips and every boastful tongue."
1 Thessalonians 2:5 New Testament
"You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed—God is our witness."
Jude 1:16 New Testament
"These people are grumblers and faultfinders; they follow their own evil desires; they boast about themselves and flatter others for their own advantage."
The Bottom Line
Flattery isn't kindness; it's a trap dressed in compliments.
Try Today

Think of someone you've been flattering to get something from them — apologize or switch to honest encouragement instead.

Prayer

Jesus taught us to pray with honest hearts (Matthew 6:5-6), so let's bring this before the Father.

Father, You see through every false word and empty compliment. Forgive me for using flattery to get what I want instead of speaking truth in love. I confess that sometimes I manipulate with my words instead of trusting You to provide. Give me a pure heart and honest lips that build others up without hidden agendas. Help me speak truth, even when silence or honesty costs me something. In Jesus' name, Amen.

📚 Read Proverbs 27

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