Bible Explorer for the Young (Proverbs)Sample

Sincere Praise

Proverbs 29:5

Those who flatter their neighbors are spreading nets for their feet.

Who doesn’t like to be praised? I bet, no one! Everyone feels happy each time they are complimented. Compliments are a positive thing, while flattery is the opposite. Flattery is excessive and insincere praise, given especially to further one's own interests. 

The difference between flattery and compliments are that flattery has an insincere motivation, while compliments are a sincere acknowledgement of admiration and praise for someone else. 

Flattery is not sincere, and praise that is given without sincerity is basically a lie. That is why we should avoid giving flattery. Flattery is harmful both to the giver and receiver. It is dangerous to the giver, because God will judge him for it as he is telling lies. It is dangerous to the receiver because it can lead him to do or think what he should not.

Be like Jesus, who always speaks in love and always speaks only the truth. He never resorted to flattery for personal gain. Jesus is always full of wisdom in choosing words to compliment, remind and correct His children. 

Prayer

Dear God, may I be like Jesus to only speak the truth with love. May all the compliments and praise coming from my mouth be sincere from my heart. Amen.