How can I be less vulnerable to flattery?

Luke 20:21, 23“Teacher,” they said, “we know that you speak and teach what is right and are not influenced by what others think. You teach the way of God truthfully.” . . . He saw through their trickery.

Jesus was careful to weigh the motives of those who sought to destroy his ministry through flattery. A compliment sometimes can be flattery in disguise. We should consider why a person, especially someone we do not know well, is complimenting us. It will help prepare us for the next words that come out of the person’s mouth.

1 Thessalonians 2:4-5We speak as messengers approved by God to be entrusted with the Good News. Our purpose is to please God, not people. He alone examines the motives of our hearts. Never once did we try to win you with flattery, as you well know.

Paul refused to use flattery as a manipulative tool to spread the gospel. This made him more credible as a witness and also less vulnerable to flattery himself.