25 Bible Verses About Toxic People (With Commentary)
Have you ever encountered someone whose presence in your life caused negative consequences? Whether they are a family member, coworker or friend, toxic people can be emotionally draining and damaging to our mental health.
If you find yourself entrenched in a difficult relationship where the person keeps on controlling and manipulating, it’s high time to take control of your situation.
In times like these Bible verses about toxic people can help us find courage and comfort when dealing with such relationships. Read ahead for verses that bring solace during hard times.
Bible Verses About Toxic People
Toxic people are those who harm or bring negativity to those around them. The Bible offers guidance on how to handle toxic people and how to avoid becoming one.
Characteristics of Toxic People
Toxic people can cause havoc in our lives and relationships. A person exhibiting deceit, manipulation, selfishness, envy, and an unwillingness to change can be classified as toxic. The Bible speaks to this phenomenon, highlighting the negative effects that individuals like this can have on communities, families, and friendships.
These individuals might be prone to gossiping, slandering or spreading rumors which lead to broken relationships and a general sense of mistrust. They might resort to using feelings of guilt or shame as tools for manipulating others or gaining personal advantages. Furthermore, some toxic individuals might repeatedly criticize or judge others with the intention of elevating themselves.
Even if they have a seemingly strong religious position, they may lack a genuine connection with God. This means their religious standing could be exploited for personal gain or used as a tool for controlling others. Being aware of the traits exhibited by toxic people is key in managing them and protecting ourselves from their destructive influence.
Proverbs 6:16-19
“There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.”
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 25:26
“Like a muddied spring or a polluted fountain is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked.”
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.”
Matthew 7:15-16
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits.”
Dealing with Toxic People
The Bible gives guidance on how to handle toxic people. One way is by setting boundaries and reducing our exposure to their harmful behavior. It’s important to prioritize our own well-being and the health of our relationships.
Another way to deal with toxic people is by practicing forgiveness and praying for them. This means we should let go of any negative feelings we might have but doesn’t mean accepting their negative behavior. By doing this, we can keep a healthy perspective and prevent the negative behavior from hurting us emotionally.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to seek wise counsel from trusted friends, mentors, or leaders when dealing with toxic people. They can offer valuable advice on navigating these challenging relationships.
Proverbs 14:7
“Leave the presence of a fool, for there you do not meet words of knowledge.”
Proverbs 13:20
“Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.”
Proverbs 19:27
“Cease to hear instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.”
Proverbs 21:24
“Scoffer” is the name of the arrogant, haughty man who acts with arrogant pride.
Proverbs 9:7-8
“Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself abuse, and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury. Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you; reprove a wise man, and he will love you.”
Overcoming Toxic Traits
As humans, we are all capable of displaying negative or harmful behaviors in different ways. Therefore, it is essential to recognize, acknowledge and address these toxic traits within ourselves.
According to the Bible, it is important to engage in introspection and seek wisdom from God to identify and combat these negative traits. Through a deeper relationship with God, we can begin to transform our minds and hearts for the better. This requires humility and the willingness to acknowledge our shortcomings coupled with a dedication towards change.
Another useful tool towards overcoming toxic attitudes is seeking accountability from trusted friends or mentors; they can provide support, encouragement, and constructive feedback as we work towards becoming more Christ-like in our behavior.
Ephesians 4:31-32
“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
Colossians 3:8
“But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.”
Proverbs 12:18
“There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
James 3:8-10
“But no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.
Proverbs 15:1
“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Pursuing Godly Characteristics
The Bible encourages us to pursue positive behaviors that promote healthy relationships and personal growth while working on overcoming our negative traits. These behaviors include love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. By developing these qualities, we can improve our connections with those around us and live a more fulfilling life.
To develop these Godly characteristics in ourselves, we must spend time studying Scripture, praying regularly and connecting with other believers. As we become more familiar with the teachings of the Bible and what God desires for our lives, we will be better equipped to replace toxic behaviors with positive attributes that align with His will.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things, there is no law.”
Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
Romans 12:17-18
“Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”
James 1:19-20
“Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”
Trusting God in Dealing with Toxic People
Dealing with toxic people and overcoming our own toxic traits can be challenging, but it is important to trust in God’s guidance and strength. To do this, we must surrender our situations and relationships to Him and trust Him to provide the wisdom and discernment needed.
We should also remember that God is ultimately in control, even in the most difficult circumstances. By trusting in Him and seeking His guidance, we can successfully deal with toxic people and grow into the individuals He has called us to be.
Furthermore, relying on God’s grace and mercy is crucial when dealing with such people. Remembering that we were once broken ourselves reminds us of how much we need His forgiveness. By extending grace towards those who hurt us, we reflect the love and compassion that God has shown to us.
In facing challenges with toxic individuals, it is necessary for us to hold on to our ultimate source of strength which comes from God. Even when dealing with difficult people or situations, we can find peace and comfort in His presence.
Psalm 27:1-3
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked advance against me to devour me, it is my enemies and my foes who will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident.”
Psalm 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.”
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Isaiah 41:10
“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.”
Psalm 34:17-18
“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all
Final Thoughts
Toxic people can be a challenge to deal with, but it’s crucial for our spiritual journey. In order to overcome toxic traits, we must first recognize the characteristics of these individuals. It’s essential that we set boundaries to protect ourselves and avoid being negatively impacted by their behavior.
We should pursue Godly characteristics, such as love and kindness towards others even if they are toxic towards us. Trusting in God during these difficult situations is also imperative as He can provide us with the guidance and strength to navigate these relationships with wisdom and grace.
As we grow closer to God, we are able to identify toxic behaviors within ourselves and take steps towards eliminating them. This will enable us to develop healthier relationships with those around us, including those who may have previously been toxic towards us. So let us continue towards our spiritual journey with perseverance in overcoming toxicity and fostering healthy relationships that honor God.
