flattery

“Look, I’m sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as serpents and as harmless as doves. Matthew 10:16 HCSB
https://bible.com/bible/72/mat.10.16.HCSB

Would a shrewd person be susceptible to flattery? No! Would a shrewd person use flattery? Perhaps! It depends of the level of awareness of Christ in their lives. There are many unsaved, but shrewd people, just as there are many saved but unethical people.

What am I saying? We are urged to be shrewd in dealing with people. I am reminded as to how Paul addressed people he wished to impress with the gospel. He was wise but also complementary. Was that wrong? Always, God will judge our motives. I cannot say, I was not there and I am not God. However,  I need to be mindful of my own motives, always!

Do I flattery for personal gain, to manipulate a sale or am I flattering to open a mind to potential in Christ? This is the crux of the matter, intention. This is what I will be judged on, not glorious ideals. Amen!

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