Spiritual Toxicity
The Outcome
Spiritual toxicity is a term used to describe the use of spirituality in a harmful or destructive way. It can manifest in a variety of ways, including:
Using spirituality to control or manipulate others.
Using spirituality to justify harmful or abusive behavior.
Using spirituality to create a sense of superiority or entitlement.
Using spirituality to exclude or discriminate against others.
Using spirituality to promote fear, guilt, or shame.
Spiritual toxicity can have a negative impact on both individuals and communities. It can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. It can also make it difficult to build healthy relationships and to connect with others.
Toxic Relationships/Friendships
The outcome of having any kind of relationship with a toxic person can be negative, both for your mental and physical health. Toxic people are often manipulative, controlling, and abusive. They may put you down, make you feel bad about yourself, and make it difficult for you to have a healthy relationship with them. This can lead to a number of negative consequences, including:
Low self-esteem: Toxic people often make you feel like you're not good enough. This can lead to low self-esteem, which can make it difficult to have healthy relationships with others.
Depression: Toxic relationships can be very stressful, and stress can lead to depression. If you're in a toxic relationship, it's important to seek help from a therapist or counselor.
Anxiety: Toxic relationships can also lead to anxiety. If you're constantly worried about what the other person is going to say or do, it can be very difficult to relax and enjoy life.
Physical health problems: Stress can also lead to physical health problems, such as headaches, stomachaches, and high blood pressure. If you're in a toxic relationship, it's important to take care of your physical health by eating healthy, exercising, and getting enough sleep.
If you're in a toxic relationship, it's important to get help. You can talk to a therapist or counselor, or you can join a support group for people who are in similar situations. It's also important to set boundaries with the toxic person and to avoid contact with them as much as possible.
Toxic People in The Bible
The Bible has a lot to say about toxic people. In Proverbs 22:24, it says, "Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered." This verse is warning us about the dangers of being friends with people who are quick to anger. These people can be very destructive to our relationships and our peace of mind.
Another verse that speaks to the dangers of toxic people is 1 Corinthians 15:33, which says, "Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’" This verse is telling us that the people we spend time with can have a big impact on our character. If we spend time with people who are negative, critical, and judgmental, we will start to become more like them.
The Bible also gives us some advice on how to deal with toxic people. In Ephesians 4:29, it says, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." This verse is telling us that we should be careful about the words we say to others. Our words can have a big impact on people, and we should use them to build others up, not tear them down.
Finally, the Bible reminds us that God is our refuge and strength. In Psalm 46:1, it says, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." This verse is a reminder that we can always turn to God for help when we are dealing with toxic people. He is our strength and our refuge, and He will never leave us or forsake us.
If you are struggling with a toxic person in your life, I encourage you to seek help from a trusted friend or family member, or from a professional counselor. You are not alone, and there is help available.