Have you ever had someone who knows you well repeatedly ask you things to which they already know the answer? Or, they may continue to try to involve you in situations you have absolutely no interest in doing or simply should not even be considering. Not bad things, just events where you choose not to spend your time or situations in which you are not called to participate. These are just a few examples. The list is lengthy and can escalate.
These are manifestations of toxic behavior. It is disrespectful of you. It is rude at the very basic level. Yet, those who operate this way rationalize it as “meaning well” and a myriad of other justifications. Sometimes people just think you should live the way they do and want to participate in their chosen activities. Always remember, the ultimate battle is not against people but rather against the spirits operating through them.
So what do you do? You could get offended but that is not how we are called to respond. I had such an incident this morning. It is frustrating to be sure but to catch it before it becomes an offense and burrows in your heart (for it is always a heart issue) and spirit is the key for a follower of Christ.
When experiencing any offense quickly ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart and release any negativity. If you have explained to the person yet they continue, forgive them anyway. Pray for them. Walk away if necessary.
For it is written:
“Then He said to the disciples, “It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come! It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying, ‘I repent,’ you shall forgive him.”
