The Bible reminds us to set up boundaries to protect our emotional and spiritual health: “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” (Proverbs 4:23). For example, you might say something like, “I understand that you’re upset. But if you continue to call me names, I’ll be leaving this conversation. ” Or, you can say something like, “I know that you care about me. But criticizing me in front of other people is unacceptable, and if you continue to do this, I won’t be inviting you to social events anymore. ”
When you’re taking a break from this relationship, it can feel really tough to deal with not having this person in your life, even if they are a narcissist. Remember that God has more to offer you than anyone: “I have food to eat that you know nothing about” (John 4:32).
The Bible emphasizes the importance of standing your ground against abusive people: “Like a muddied spring or a polluted fountain is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked” (Proverbs 25:26). To claim space in a conversation, say something like, “I’ve heard what you’ve had to say. Do you mind if I speak?”
Silence can be a useful strategy. Remember that Jesus would often not respond when being criticized and attacked by others: “And while He was being accused by the chief priests and elders, He did not answer” (Matthew 27:12). If a narcissist is criticizing you, try saying something like, “I disagree with your assessment of me,” and change the subject. When a narcissist is angry, sometimes the best option is to simply leave the room as quickly and safely as you can.
The Bible encourages us to have the wisdom to know what to do and when: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). It’s okay to sometimes walk away when someone resists your attempts to get them to see the error of their ways. You can’t win every battle. If you’re looking for ways to make a meaningful impact, try volunteering for your church or offering help to people in your community who are responsive to it.
Keep in mind that in the Bible, of all the things that God hates most, “haughty eyes” are listed first (Proverbs 6:16-17). Pride is a dangerous sin to fall into, so make sure you’re not fighting a narcissist’s fire with fire.
Remember that when you call on God, He is always listening: “Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you” (Jeremiah 29:12). If you’re struggling with prayer, think of it as simply having a conversation with God. Remember that He loves you and wants the best for you. Praying for the narcissist can bring you closer to Christ, even if it doesn’t change their behavior. As the Bible tells us: “Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:28).
The Bible tells us that relying on one another for support is more than just a good idea: “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). You don’t need to spend your time with your other friends venting about the narcissist. Even a friendly conversation can improve your sense of self-worth.
The Bible tells us: “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Aside from making sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying active, be sure to take some time every day doing something that is just for you. Self-care might also look like taking a relaxing bath, heading out into nature for an afternoon, or practicing mindfulness exercises.
The Bible encourages us to seek the counsel of others: “Listen to advice and receive discipline, so that you may become wise by the end of your life” (Proverbs 19:20).
Remember that God is where our greatest happiness comes from, not other people. As the Bible tells us: “The joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). Some signs of narcissism include an exaggerated sense of self-importance, a need to have constant admiration, a preoccupation with fantasies of power, beauty, and brilliance, monopolizing conversations, and an inability to recognize the needs of others. [13] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Once you identify someone as a narcissist, you can start being more careful in your relationship with them. Try not to let them suck you into their orbit, and remember that you should rely first on God and yourself.
