INTRODUCTION

The New Testament frequently incorporates minor word variations when quoting Old Testament passages. Some Bible critics have pointed to these variations suggesting that the Bible contains contradictions. However, Bible-believing students know that these variations actually provide additional light and understanding of God’s word. For example, Romans 3:13Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips:
See All... quotes Psalm 5:9For there is no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part is very wickedness; their throat is an open sepulchre; they flatter with their tongue.
See All... with the variation in wording shedding light on the meaning of the word flattery. The phrase from Psalms reads “they flatter with their tongue” (Psalm 5:9For there is no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part is very wickedness; their throat is an open sepulchre; they flatter with their tongue.
See All...). Romans modifies this Old Testament quotation by stating that “with their tongues they have used deceit” (Romans 3:13Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips:
See All...). This indicates that flattery involves the use of deceitful words; and according to 1 Thessalonians 2:5For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness:
See All..., the motive is often connected to covetousness.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

• (For children): It is good to praise someone with the right intention. However, flattery involves saying something nice to someone when your heart feels otherwise (Psalm 55:21The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.
  See All...). For example, Judas greeted Jesus with a friendly greeting along with a kiss, but his intentions were deceitful (Matthew 26:47-49 [47] And while he yet spake, lo, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and elders of the people. [48] Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast. [49] And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him.
  See All...).
• (For everyone):  Sometimes people say things that they don't mean to other people in order to get something from them. At other times, people will stretch the truth hoping to receive some personal benefit. What are some examples of this?
• What are some subtle ways in which we might use flattery to get what we want? How can these subtle beginnings lead to much more serious situations?

PRAYER NEEDS

• Ask the Lord to teach you the dangers of flattery.
• Ask God to show you when you are using flattery.

HYMN

I SURRENDER ALL

Receive the daily devotions on your facebook wall by clicking "Like" on http://www.facebook.com/kingjamesbibledailydevotions.