Day 2 - The Flattering Tongue

Recap of Day 1 and Day 2 Study

How did you do yesterday with that lying tongue? I did pretty good, caught myself thinking about it and stopping my speech mid-sentence. Had a migraine but plodded through and was better by 10 pm. Toned down the exaggerations, figured I am getting my fill with the other blog and my novel (praise God).

When I did spout out the lie, I said "not true, this is what happened.." and guess what?

I didn't explode or melt or get slapped...

Day2 - "These people flatter others to get favors in return" Jude 1:16

How many times do we tell someone how good or great they are and expect something in return? Do we 'play the game' at work and nod in agreement when something should be said to the contrary? Do we speak-up to right a wrong even when our reputation is at stake, going along with the popular, nice, cute, etc. person?

I know for myself, I waffle back-and-forth on this one. Most times I speak up, tell the truth without extra flattery (does seem kindof contrary to my exaggeration but I'll examine that with D to understand it better!). Other times I go along or agree when I really don't want to PEOPLE PLEASER!!!!.

God says this is a form of low-esteem in Him and ourselves. We don't believe that He will favor us so we seek the favor of man. I don't want to be a people-pleaser but a God-obeyer and believer in His promises.

"For surely, O, Lord, you bless the righteous, you surround them with your favor as with a shield." Psalm 5:12

Whom did He bless with unmerited favor besides us? Esther, Daniel, and Joseph come to mind--none of them had to sacrifice integrity or honesty to receive Him. When we feel low, unnoticed and unappreciated we are apt to flatter people. (See Esther, Daniel and Genesis to read the accounts).

God says, "The Lord will cut-off all flattering lips..." Psalm 12:3 OUCH, visualize the Lord taking scissors and cutting your lips when you flatter man holy canolli I feel the pain.

Affirmation for today: "I will show partiality to no one; nor will I flatter any man. For if I were skilled in flattery, my Maker would soon take me away." Job 32:21-22.