Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Stepping Stones: What is the Difference Between Flattery and Praise?

Transformational Tip
It's easy to flatter, it's harder to praise. God's Word speaks about flattery to others. It is not without consequence, yet people do it all the time. We should all know the difference between flattering someone and praising them. Here is a quote that will give us all a better understanding:
"Flattery is from the teeth out. Sincere appreciation is from the heart out." Dale Carnegie
Today, let people know what they do that touches your and God's heart.

Prayer
Heavenly Father I have seen plenty of flattering going on in my place of work. It is used to get ahead faster than others without the work ethic others have. It saddens me. I know, life is not fair, I have been told that since childhood. Some people are so starved for affection that they can't even recognize flattery from praise. Lord, what about me? Do I ever flatter without realizing it? Speak to my heart today Lord and teach me how to praise others for Your glory and not my own. Thank you Father God. I humbly ask this in Jesus' Name. Amen.

The Truth
They speak idly everyone with his neighbor with flattering lips and a double heart they speak. May the Lord cut off all flattering lips and the tongue that speaks proud things.....
Psalms 12: 2-3
Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as it is good for edification according to the need of the moment, that it may give grace to those that hear.
Eph 4:29