Rate D For Danger
Introduction - Coping Toxic People
17 And now I make one more appeal, my dear brothers and sisters. Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people’s faith by teaching things contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them. 18 Such people are not serving Christ our Lord; they are serving their own personal interests. By smooth talk and glowing words they deceive innocent people. —Romans 16:17-18 (NLT)
How To Cope In A Toxic Relationship:
1. Start Setting
12 And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God. —Titus 2:12 (NLT)
12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. —Hebrews 4:12 (KJV)
2. Stop Seeking
10 Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant. —Galatians 1:10 (NLT)
14 I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well. —Psalm 139:14 (NKJV)
3. Continue To
The Toxic Person
23 If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.” —John 20:23 (NKJV)
The ART of Healthy Relationships
A = Accommodate, R = Respect and T = Trust
14 “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. 15 But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins. —Matthew 6:14-15 (NLT)
Conclusion
15 “Now listen! Today I am giving you a choice between life and death, between prosperity and disaster. 16 For I command you this day to love the Lord your God and to keep his commands, decrees, and regulations by walking in his ways. —Deuteronomy 30:15-16 (NLT)
What small step can I take today towards reclaiming my life?
My Next Steps:
- Am I holding on to any illusion that I can change the toxic person in my life?
- What Relational Boundaries do I need to establish in my life?
- What are my greatest challenges in coping with toxic people who are close to me such as a spouse or parent, and what I am going to do to address the toxicity?
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If this message has been a blessing to you, please email comments to Pastor Mario.