Sometimes you just need the quick scoop, right? Well, when it comes to toxic people, the Bible has a lot to say. It encourages us to be wise in our relationships, steer clear of bad influences, and seek godly companionship. If someone’s bringing you down, causing drama, or leading you away from God’s path, it’s time to reevaluate that relationship.
Curious to know more about what the Bible says on handling toxic relationships? Keep reading, there’s a lot more wisdom where that came from!
What Does the Bible Say About Toxic People?
The Bible, that ancient book full of wisdom, has a lot to say about how we should deal with toxic people in our lives. It’s not just an old book—it’s a guide for living a fulfilling life, and that includes managing relationships.
Let’s dive in. The Bible encourages us to surround ourselves with good influences. Think about it like your grandma used to say: “Show me your friends, and I’ll show you your future.” It’s the same idea. The people we surround ourselves with have a huge impact on our lives, our beliefs, and our actions.
God’s view on this is pretty clear. We are called to love everyone, yes, but that doesn’t mean we have to be close friends with everyone. The Bible tells us to be careful with whom we share our lives. We are not allowed to let toxic people drag us down or lead us into sin.
Jesus, our ultimate role model, showed us how. He was kind and loving to all, but he also knew when to keep his distance. He didn’t let toxic people distract him from his mission.
The New Testament is full of advice on this. From choosing our friends wisely to forgiving those who hurt us—it’s all in there. So, what does that mean for us today? Well, it means we should be discerning. We should seek out relationships that bring us closer to God, and be cautious of those that lead us astray.
Bible Verses About Toxic People
- Proverbs 13:20 – “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.”
- 1 Corinthians 15:33 – “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company ruins good morals.’”
- Psalm 1:1 – “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers;”
- 2 Timothy 3:1-5 – “But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.”
- Proverbs 22:24-25 – “Make no friendship with a man given to anger, nor go with a wrathful man, lest you learn his ways and entangle yourself in a snare.”
Navigating relationships can be tricky, but the Bible offers timeless wisdom to guide us. It encourages us to surround ourselves with positive influences and be cautious of toxic individuals. By doing so, we protect our hearts, minds, and souls, ensuring that we stay on God’s path. Remember, while we are called to love all, we also need to protect ourselves from harmful influences. So, choose your friends wisely, forgive those who wrong you, and always seek out relationships that bring you closer to God. In doing this, you’ll find peace, support, and encouragement on your journey through life.