Stay Away from Toxic!

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:1-3 ESV)

A definition of a toxic relationship is “any relationship between people who don’t support each other, where there is conflict and one seeks to undermine the other, where there’s competition, disrespect, and a lack of cohesiveness. It goes without saying wherever any type of abuse such as mental, emotional, physical, sexual and financial abuse exists there is toxicity. In every relationship there will be times of conflict, tension, and disagreement. This is normal. But when it is it continual or ongoing that is a different story. Sadly, many people are in and feel trapped in toxic relationships, thinking they are normal or acceptable. These are not the kind of relationships God has made us for and we are to remember he has made us wondrously and uniquely; we are his special creation whom he loves and wants the best for and does not support or counsel us to stay in any environment or relationship that supports abuse or mistreatment.

We can praise God for his clear instruction concerning and enjoying healthy relationships. Human relationships will always be imperfect, but they should still be acceptable and pleasing to God, and when we follow God’s guidelines and precepts for earthly relationships we will experience satisfying, fulfilling, and acceptable relationships with others. And when we do find ourselves part of unhealthy or toxic ones, he will provide a way out and instruct us how to exit safely. Let’s Pray   

Life is complicated Lord, and relationships can become complicated also but help us always to remember you have created us for healthy relationships with others, not those considered toxic by human or biblical standards. Help us to live accordingly. Amen

Reflective Questions for Soul-Tending:

What or who does today’s message bring to mind?

How will you integrate today’s message into your plan of soul-care?