Flattered

This is not necessarily positive term. By definition it means: “lavish insincere praise and compliments upon (someone), especially to further one’s own interests”. I’ve had someone pour on the flattery and quite honestly in makes me suspicious of their own agenda. There is a big difference in having someone who knows me to pay me a compliment or say genuinely nice things about me. I’m humbled and honored to have friends and colleagues who know my heart and love me sincerely. They are not simply going to “puff me up” with fake praise. Daniel noted in one of his visions that the king really poured on the flattery for his people. Check this out…

32 With flattery he will corrupt those who have violated the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him. (Daniel 11:32 NIV)

Please don’t misunderstand; I think we all benefit from genuine compliments and genuine praise. It’s the “fake praise” that can be detrimental. There are some people who will always “tickle your ear” with what you want them to say. Then there are others who will call you out if you’re out of line and praise you when you’re right on track. I desire honesty and truth over inflated, and puffed up praise. I believe that knowing the Lord will help keep me grounded even in circumstances where I’m known for love or kindness. If I’m a good man at all, it’s because the Lord has shaped my heart to be like His. I’m blessed to know Him and I really want to impress Him with my life and my heart.

Pressing On!

Dwayne