INTRODUCTION

Nobody likes to spend time around those who act in a rude or insulting manner. Most people would rather spend people-time with those who focus on saying nice things. However, the truth is that one is just as spiritually dangerous to one's well-being as the other. This is why the Bible warns us to “meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.” Flattery is directly connected to deceit and covetousness; therefore, God intends for His warning to help Christians avoid people who say nice things deceitfully. These people intend to take advantage of their target. Far too many people have been mistreated and lied to by others whom they thought to be dear friends. It is best to avoid those with flattering lips.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

• (For children): Everyone who says something nice about you is not necessarily your friend. Read Luke 20:19-21 [19] And the chief priests and the scribes the same hour sought to lay hands on him; and they feared the people: for they perceived that he had spoken this parable against them. [20] And they watched him, and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of his words, that so they might deliver him unto the power and authority of the governor. [21] And they asked him, saying, Master, we know that thou sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest thou the person of any, but teachest the way of God truly:
  See All.... These men acted like they were Jesus's friends but were secretly trying to find something wrong with what He said so they could have Him arrested.
• (For everyone):  What are some things that we ought to consider when making new friends? What are some of their qualities that might be helpful in determining whether you should allow a friendship to develop?
• What are some ways in which it could be dangerous to be around people who flatter with their lips? How does this change with age (youth, teens, young adults, adults, seniors)?

PRAYER NEEDS

• Ask God to keep you from being deceived by flattery.
• Ask the Lord to give you discernment in your relationships.

HYMN

YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION

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