Assault and Flattery

(Proverbs 2:16 KJV)  To deliver thee from the strange woman, even from the stranger which flattereth with her words;

Is there anyone who is not vulnerable to flattery?  I act like I don’t care what I wear, and to a large degree that is true, but there is that still that small area of my ego that responds when someone complements my choice of wardrobe.  Recently I have lost some weight and people who have not seen me for a time comment on it.  It feels good but can easily become a danger.

We can be attacked by flattery.  The problem is believing it.  Some people believe it and it is obvious.  You can just see them standing tall.  Their self-esteem becomes inflated.  Maybe they needed that at the moment and it is helpful, but it may also sidetrack them from needed changes and improvements.

Some people believe it and act like they don’t.  This leads to a false modesty and humility.  On the outside all is well the but swelling is going on inside.  We need to beware of this.

So?  If someone compliments you, accept it graciously.  If it is deserved, well and good.  If it is not then accept it as a social statement on the level of, “Good to see you.  How are you doing?”  Beware of taking flattery seriously.  It is very seductive.