Narcissism is a word that gets used often in today’s world.
It describes a person who is excessively self-focused, craves attention, and lacks genuine empathy for others.
Maybe you know someone like this—someone who always talks about themselves, dismisses other people’s feelings, or manipulates situations to maintain control.
While the Bible does not use the word “narcissism,” it does speak extensively about pride, selfishness, and the dangers of putting oneself above others.
God’s Word gives us wisdom on how to deal with narcissistic behavior, whether we see it in others or struggle with it within ourselves.
Understanding what Scripture says about narcissism can help us navigate difficult relationships and grow in humility and love.
Pride and Selfishness Are at the Heart of Narcissism
The Bible consistently warns about the dangers of pride.
Pride is an inflated sense of self-importance, and it often leads to destruction.
Proverbs 16:18 says, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
Narcissists are often full of pride, believing they are better than others and deserving of special treatment.
They resist correction, refuse to admit wrongdoing, and seek validation from others to maintain their self-image.
Selfishness is another core characteristic of narcissistic behavior.
A person consumed with themselves cares little for the needs and feelings of others.
Philippians 2:3-4 teaches, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
God calls His people to live with humility and put others first, the exact opposite of a narcissistic mindset.
Biblical Examples of Narcissistic Behavior
The Bible provides several examples of individuals who displayed narcissistic tendencies.
Their stories reveal the consequences of pride, selfishness, and an unrepentant heart.
King Nebuchadnezzar was one of the most powerful rulers in history, but his arrogance led to his downfall.
He looked over his kingdom and declared, “Is not this the great Babylon I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?” (Daniel 4:30).
Because he failed to acknowledge God’s authority, he was humbled and lost everything until he repented.
Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt during the time of Moses, is another example of extreme pride.
Even after witnessing God’s power through plagues, he refused to humble himself and release the Israelites.
His hardened heart led to great suffering, showing that arrogance and stubbornness often come at a great cost.
The Pharisees were religious leaders who loved attention, demanded respect, and looked down on others.
Jesus rebuked them in Matthew 23:5-7, saying, “Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues.”
They were more concerned with their image than with truly following God.
Their self-righteousness blinded them to the truth, and they rejected Jesus because He challenged their authority.
How to Recognize Narcissistic Behavior
The Bible describes attitudes and behaviors that align with narcissism.
A narcissistic person lacks humility.
Proverbs 11:2 says, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”
Someone with a narcissistic mindset struggles to admit fault, often blaming others or making excuses for their behavior.
They have an excessive need for admiration and praise.
Galatians 6:3 warns, “If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves.”
They manipulate and control situations to benefit themselves.
Second Timothy 3:2-5 describes people in the last days as “lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive… having a form of godliness but denying its power.”
A narcissistic person lacks genuine empathy.
Romans 12:15 instructs believers to “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”
A self-absorbed person struggles to truly connect with the emotions of others.
Recognizing these traits can help us guard our hearts, set boundaries, and approach relationships with wisdom.
How to Deal with a Narcissistic Person
The Bible provides guidance on handling difficult people with love, wisdom, and grace.
Jesus set boundaries with those who tried to manipulate Him.
In Mark 1:35-38, He withdrew from the crowds to pray, showing that even though He loved people, He did not let their demands control Him.
Setting healthy boundaries is necessary when dealing with a narcissistic person.
Proverbs 4:23 reminds us, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
This means protecting your emotional and spiritual well-being from toxic influences.
Ephesians 4:15 encourages believers to “speak the truth in love.”
If someone’s behavior is harmful, it is okay to address it, but it should be done with wisdom and kindness.
Jesus confronted the Pharisees with truth, but He also showed compassion to those willing to listen.
Prayer is one of the most powerful tools when dealing with a narcissistic person.
Matthew 5:44 instructs, “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Rather than trying to change them through arguments or frustration, pray for God to soften their heart and reveal truth to them.
In some cases, walking away may be the best option.
Proverbs 22:24-25 warns, “Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.”
If a relationship is damaging your peace, faith, or well-being, stepping away may be necessary for your health.
Healing from Narcissistic Abuse
If you have been hurt by a narcissistic person, you may carry wounds from manipulation, betrayal, or emotional damage.
God offers healing and restoration.
Psalm 147:3 assures, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
If someone has made you feel small, unworthy, or unloved, remember that your value comes from God, not from their treatment of you.
Isaiah 41:10 offers comfort, saying, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
God’s love is not manipulative, conditional, or self-seeking.
His love is pure, restoring, and eternal.
Rest in His love and allow Him to heal the pain caused by toxic relationships.
God Calls Us to Humility and Love
The Bible teaches that true strength comes through humility, not arrogance.
Jesus Himself, though He was God, chose to live humbly.
Philippians 2:5-7 describes His attitude: “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage; rather, He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant.”
God calls His people to reflect His character.
Rather than seeking self-glorification, we are called to love, serve, and walk in humility.
First Corinthians 13:4-5 reminds us, “Love is patient, love is kind.
It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
This is the opposite of narcissistic love, which is selfish and conditional.
God’s love is selfless and sacrificial, and He calls us to love in the same way.
Final Thoughts
The Bible warns against pride, arrogance, and selfishness—traits that define narcissism.
It teaches us to pursue humility, love, and selflessness instead.
If you are dealing with a narcissistic person, seek God’s wisdom on how to respond.
Set boundaries, speak truth in love, and pray for healing.
Above all, remember that God’s love is greater than any selfishness or pride.
His love is the kind that never fails, never manipulates, and always brings healing.