A well-known speaker recently defined flattery as “something said to a man’s face you would never say behind his back.” Many top schools of management actually endorse well-placed flattery to get yourself ahead. For example, they suggest complimenting your manager to people you know will pass it along to her, or intentionally expressing values similar to your manager’s in a meeting she is sure to attend.

The tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire!

James 3:5

So when does fanning your flame for success turn into deception? Proverbs 20 warns that bread obtained by falsehood is sweet at first, but will eventually turn to gravel. Psalm 36 says deceitful words are a plot for trouble. If you buy into the popular idea that doing whatever it takes to get ahead isn’t so bad, think again. Among those uninvited into God’s presence in Revelation are people practicing fraud, but Proverbs 12 says truthful lips and those who deal faithfully are God’s delight.

Today, pray for citizens and leaders alike across America to embrace a new beginning: walking in God’s truth. Be confident! Hope for the future, both America’s and yours, is still firmly grounded in the Truth, Jesus Christ.

Recommended Reading: I Peter 3:9-15