Some people will try to demean you and bring you down to make themselves feel better. Do not drink the Kool-Aid! Walk away with grace and do not look back. Accepting emotional abuse is never OK. Emotional abuse in the name of Jesus is most noxious.
You are created for a divine purpose. Be your best. Do your best. Give your best to others. We are called to love one another but not to accept toxic behavior. Many years ago, my priest would often say, “You are to love one another but that does not mean someone has to be in your back pocket.” You may not like everyone but if you follow Christ you are to love them. That can be confusing. I know it was to me.
We tend to equate Christian love with having to like every person and pour out time and energy to help in the name of Jesus. I have seen far too many well-meaning Christians suffering emotional abuse from other so called believers and leaders. Ultimately for many this results in disordered heart issues (for it is always a heart issue), compassion fatigue, burnout, and sadly, walking out.
Check your relationships. Check where you worship. Pray for wisdom and discernment. If control tactics and toxicity dominate, walk away. Pray that God’s grace will right every crooked place. Pray that He will help you keep your heart clear .
Please understand, I am not advocating walking out of every situation because someone offended you for the moment. Offense will come in this life. Most often it comes from simple misunderstanding of intent rather than willful conduct. What I am presenting for your prayerful consideration is to remove yourself from truly toxic situations.
For it is written:
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
