He that hateth dissembleth with his lips, and layeth up deceit within him; When he speaketh fair, believe him not: for there are seven abominations in his heart. Whose hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness shall be shewed before the whole congregation.
Proverbs 26:24-26

Solomon takes verses 24-26, to apply the last several verses and paint a full picture of the man who flatters with his lips, and harbors wickedness in his heart. Again, this kind of wisdom is not completely learned on the couch or recliner reading the theoretical truth of its existence. This type of wisdom is built over time, as we interact with various individuals, and we learn to interpret their characters through the lens of scripture. While this is an important nugget of wisdom for us all, it is particularly important for young people to learn these truths, and seek to apply them as they choose and their own friendships. We must pray for discernment, because according to our text, people are not always as they seem. People hide their evil motives with words that make you feel accepted, and even special. While it is easy to get carried away with an individual who seems to be carried away with you, it is foolish to do so. Underneath all the flattery, lie endless abominable thoughts that are geared toward taking advantage of you. God will eventually expose the deceiver, but we must walk in wisdom seeing that there are many who have not yet been exposed. May Christ guide our hearts, and give us wisdom, as we try to navigate through a world full of wickedness and deceit.