Why should I beware of flattery—it doesn’t hurt anyone, does it?

2 Samuel 17:11“And I advise that you personally lead the troops.”

Absalom allowed himself to be flattered into leading his army into a battle that would be extremely difficult to win. We should beware of flattery because it can trick us into doing something we are unprepared to do.

Proverbs 29:5To flatter friends is to lay a trap for their feet.

We should beware of flattery because it is often manipulation intended to make us vulnerable to the flatterer. Flattery often weaponizes selfish ambition or any number of other unhealthy motives. Ultimately, flattery will only undermine our relationships.

Proverbs 7:21-23She seduced him with her pretty speech and enticed him with her flattery. He followed her at once, like an ox going to the slaughter. He was like a stag caught in a trap, awaiting the arrow that would pierce its heart. He was like a bird flying into a snare, little knowing it would cost him his life.

We should beware of flattery because, in its most dishonest and deceptive form, it is a lie that leads us into sin. Flattery intended to lead us into sexual compromise is especially intoxicating and powerful.