Category: Relationships

The Family of God: Beautiful and Diverse

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The Bible offers profound wisdom on love and humility, continually challenging believers to examine not only what we profess, but how we live. One of the most confronting statements is found in 1 John 4:20:

“Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.”

These words expose the contradiction of claiming devotion to God while harbouring prejudice, partiality, or indifference toward others. They call us to a radical, transformative love—one that reshapes how we view, value, and treat every person.

This call becomes even more striking when we hold it alongside the Bible’s vision of God’s kingdom. In Revelation 7:9–10, John describes the culmination of history:

“After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb… And they cried out in a loud voice: ‘Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.’”

This is the end toward which God is moving all things: a redeemed, unified, multiethnic family worshipping together in harmony. The diversity of the crowd is not erased—it is celebrated. Different nations, languages, cultures, and stories are woven into one glorious chorus of praise.

One in Christ, Not Divided by the World

Despite this clear biblical vision, divisions can still subtly appear—even within Christian communities. Scripture reminds us plainly in Galatians 3:28:

“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

Yet even well-meaning believers can fall into patterns of valuing influence, wealth, race, age, or social standing. These distinctions can create barriers, foster inequality, and obscure the heart of the Gospel. God’s heart is for unity, not uniformity—unity rooted in love, humility, and shared identity in Christ.

God created us with different histories, cultures, languages, and perspectives, and each of us reflects His image in a unique way. When we love one another well across those differences, we reflect something of God’s own nature—Father, Son, and Spirit living in perfect unity and love. There is beauty in our differences, and that beauty is meant to draw us together, not push us apart.

Growing in Humble Love

The Bible calls us to be mindful when favouritism or division could subtly influence how we treat others. The Church—meant to be a refuge for the broken and a foretaste of heaven—can reflect God’s vision most clearly when all are welcomed and valued. Influence, image, or social standing can sometimes shape our perception, but God’s call is to unity, love, and humility.

James reminds us:

“Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in… have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?” (James 2:1–4)

This passage encourages careful reflection on how we respond to people in different circumstances. Jesus provides the perfect example: He welcomed the outcast, ate with those considered unworthy, defended the vulnerable, and showed compassion without regard for status or social value. Following Him, we are invited to see everyone as equally loved by God.

The only time we should look down on someone is when we are reaching out a hand to lift them up. This is the heart of true humility, captured in Philippians 2:3–4:

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”

Christian love is not self-promoting; it is self-giving. It invites honest reflection on how we perceive and respond to others. It is revealed in recognising the homeless person as someone made in God’s image, in honouring those who cannot advance our status or serve our ambitions, and in living consistently with the belief that every person has infinite worth.

Humility also requires courage. Silence in the face of injustice, whether in the Church or the world, can unintentionally allow harm. As followers of Christ, we are called to stand with the poor, the abused, the marginalised, and the overlooked, ensuring that no one is treated as expendable or unworthy.

Living the Gospel Here and Now

The vision of Revelation is not something we merely wait for—it is something we are called to reflect now. Churches today can embody this picture of heaven by living in unity across ethnic, economic, generational, and cultural boundaries. When we pray, worship, read Scripture, and stand for justice together, we give the world a glimpse of God’s coming kingdom.

To love as Christ loved requires rejecting the world’s obsession with status and choosing instead the way of service. It means recognising that, in God’s family, there are no hierarchies—only brothers and sisters saved by grace.

Jesus said:

“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35)

May we be known not for our divisions or our pursuit of influence, but for a radical love that breaks down barriers, uplifts the lowly, and reflects the heart of God. When we truly love those we can see, we reveal the love of the God we cannot see.

As James reminds us:

“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” (James 1:27)

True Christianity is not measured by status, platform, or power, but by love expressed through humility, justice, and service. Let us rise to this calling—not in our own strength, but through the Spirit of God, who empowers us to live as one beautiful, diverse, redeemed family in Christ.

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**Photo by Ann Tarezevich at Pexels / Photo The NIV Telos Bible

God Is Not a Celestial Santa Claus or a Genie in a Bottle

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Many, when they think of Almighty God, view Him as some kind of celestial Santa Claus or a genie in a bottle—someone who exists to grant wishes if approached the “right” way. And when life does not unfold according to their desires, when prayers are not answered on their terms or in their timing, disappointment quickly turns into resentment. They begin to accuse God of not loving them, withdraw from prayer and fellowship, and eventually declare, “Christianity didn’t work for me.”

The truth is, many never came to Christ for the right reasons. They did not come in repentance, seeking deliverance from sin and reconciliation with God. Instead, they were sold a counterfeit gospel—the ever-prevalent health and wealth message that tickles the ears and flatters the flesh. This false gospel promises comfort without surrender, blessing without obedience, and salvation without sanctification. It appeals to a worldly mindset that believes it can live as it pleases while still doing “business” with God, as if the Creator were on the same level as His creation.

When expectations go unmet, some respond by punishing God—by withholding worship, abandoning church, and returning to their former way of life. They blame God and His Church, citing offenses, disappointments, or the failures of people. “No one visited me when I was sick. No one helped me. There are wicked people in the church.” And while these experiences may be painful and even real, they must be understood rightly.

God’s people are not perfect. The Church is not a museum of saints; it is a hospital for sinners. Every believer is a work in progress, being sanctified day by day until Christ returns. Jesus alone is perfect. People—saved or unsaved—will let you down. That reality should never be used as a reason to take offense at God or to reject His Church. The failures of people are not a reflection of God’s holiness, but of the broken world in which we live.

The Bible makes it clear that not everyone who goes to church goes for the right reasons. Satan himself goes to church; Scripture tells us he comes as an angel of light, seeking to deceive, to kill, steal, and destroy. Some people hide behind religion while harboring unrepentant sin. Others resist the work of the Holy Spirit, resulting in no spiritual growth, no transformation, and no sanctification. When such individuals act wickedly, it brings reproach upon the Church—but it does not negate the truth of the gospel.

This is why believers must remain spiritually alert. We are called to forgive quickly, walk in humility, and use the discernment God has given us. We must continually seek His wisdom and guidance, especially in these evil, wicked, and degenerate times. The chaos we see in the world is not random—it points to one undeniable truth: Jesus is coming back soon.

We do not go to church to get; we go to church to give—our worship, our gratitude, our obedience, and our lives. Church is not a consumer service, and God is not a vendor. He is the Holy One, the Creator of heaven and earth, before whom every knee will bow and every tongue will confess. Fellowship is not about what benefits me first, but about loving God above all and loving others as ourselves. When the focus becomes, “What did I receive?” rather than, “How did I honor God?” the heart has already drifted from true faith.

The Christian life was never promised to be easy, comfortable, or free from suffering. Scripture is clear: we are called to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Christ. Trials refine us; they do not disprove God’s love. Suffering does not mean abandonment—it often means discipline, growth, and deeper dependence on Him. The early church did not grow through comfort, wealth, and applause, but through persecution, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to Christ.

Blaming God or the church for unmet expectations only reveals that the foundation was never repentance and surrender, but self-interest. True faith does not ask, “What can God do for me?” but rather, “Lord, what would You have me do?” A relationship with God is not transactional; it is transformational. He is not here to serve our desires—we are here to serve His will.

The gospel is not about self-fulfillment; it is about salvation. Jesus did not come to make us rich, popular, or comfortable—He came to save sinners, to reconcile us to God, and to give us new hearts. Grace is not a license to continue in sin, but the power to walk in holiness. Those who truly encounter Christ are changed—not because life becomes easier, but because their allegiance has shifted from self to Savior.

So let us examine ourselves honestly. Are we following Christ for who He is, or for what we think He can give us? Are we worshipping God, or using Him? True Christianity perseveres when prayers seem unanswered, when people disappoint us, when the church feels imperfect, and when obedience costs something. Faith that only survives prosperity was never faith at all.

God is not mocked. He is worthy of reverence, obedience, humility, and awe. And when we finally understand that He owes us nothing—yet has given us everything in Christ—we will stop sulking, stop bargaining, stop blaming, and stop walking away. Instead, we will stand firm, forgive freely, discern wisely, and worship Him in spirit and in truth as we await the glorious return of our Lord Jesus Christ.

In light of all this, let us pause and remember who God truly is.

So let us give Him the praise, thanks, and reverence due to who He truly is—the Almighty God: holy, glorious, and wondrous to behold; the Creator of the entire universe. He is the One who holds our very breath in His hands, the One who has numbered our days, the One who knitted us together in our mother’s womb and ordained a plan and purpose for our lives before we ever drew our first breath. Let us lay aside false expectations, pride, and self-centered faith, and begin again—here, in humility, repentance, gratitude, and wholehearted worship of the one true and living God.

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**Photo by Elena Bash at Pexels

Walking in Your God-Given Confidence: Overcoming Jealousy, Criticism, and Toxic People

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How to recognize and navigate jealousy, manipulation, and criticism — without dimming your light or losing your peace.

When you start experiencing strange reactions at work—or anywhere—such as jealousy, unnecessary opposition, gossip, or being treated like a threat, it’s easy to assume something is wrong with you. In reality, it can be a sign of God’s hand on your life.

This is a familiar spiritual pattern—one seen in the lives of David, Joseph, and ultimately Jesus. People aren’t reacting to your mistakes; they’re responding to your light, your anointing, and the confidence you carry.

Confidence Attracts Criticism

When you walk in your purpose with faith and inner strength, your presence can expose the insecurities of others. Their reactions are rarely about you—they’re about what your light reveals in them.

Carrying God’s Holy Spirit gives confidence a deeper meaning. It’s no longer pride, but spiritual purpose. That kind of assurance can feel threatening to those still wrestling with darkness. You were never meant to dim your light to make others comfortable. When you carry the Light of God, it naturally pierces the darkness—and that disruption often stirs resistance.

True confidence isn’t loud or boastful. It’s steady, grounded, and rooted in knowing who you are, whose you are, and what you carry within. For some, that confidence is inspiring. For others, it exposes what they’ve tried to hide—and that’s when certain behaviors begin to surface.

Biblical Examples

David: Attacked for His Anointing, Not His Actions

David did nothing to Saul.

He honored him. He served him. He played music for him. He killed Goliath for Israel.

And still—Saul hated him. Why? Because Saul felt threatened by David’s favor, confidence, and God-given anointing.

“Saul was afraid of David because the LORD was with David.” — 1 Samuel 18:12

Your coworkers aren’t necessarily threatened by your words or actions. Your presence bothers them. Your confidence exposes their insecurity. Your light irritates their darkness. Just like David.

Joseph: Hated for His Dreams

Joseph’s brothers didn’t hate him because he did something wrong. They hated him because of what God placed in him:

His dreams His favor His calling His confidence His future greatness

Those things stirred jealousy and insecurity in others.

“They hated him even more because of his dream and his words.” — Genesis 37:8

Sometimes people react not to who you are right now, but to who you’re becoming. They can sense potential. They can feel elevation coming. Your destiny bothers their demons.

Jesus: Rejected for His Light

If the perfect Son of God was criticized, attacked, mocked, misunderstood, and plotted against, we can expect to experience the same.

Jesus didn’t dim His light to make others comfortable. He didn’t shrink to ease their insecurity. He walked fully in His calling—even when the religious leaders were irritated by His authority, confidence, and truth.

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” — John 1:5

Your confidence and spiritual glow are not arrogance—they are evidence of what you carry. And darkness always reacts to light.

The Truth About What You’re Experiencing

Your confidence threatens their insecurity. Your favor threatens their ego. Your light disturbs their shadows. Your potential makes them uneasy. Your spirit irritates whatever is unhealed or unclean in them.

It’s not personal—it’s spiritual. You’re not the problem. You’re the proof that God’s presence is with you.

The Spiritual Reality Behind What You’re Experiencing

This is where the situation shifts from psychological to spiritual.

Your light disturbs what is dark.

Your peace agitates hidden demons.

Your obedience exposes compromise.

Your refusal to conform becomes a reminder of God’s truth.

You are not being opposed because you are wrong — you are being opposed because you are aligned. Your life reflects truth others chose not to obey. When someone lives in partial obedience or outright rebellion, your faithfulness becomes conviction without words.

You don’t have to preach for this to happen. Your presence alone carries it.

Why Your Light Triggers Strong Reactions

Light does more than illuminate — it reveals.

And revelation is uncomfortable for those who have chosen darkness, denial, or compromise.

Your confidence confronts insecurity.

Your integrity exposes dishonesty.

Your obedience highlights rebellion.

Your growth reminds others of what they abandoned.

This is why the reaction often feels disproportionate. It isn’t about the moment — it’s about the mirror your life holds up.

Common Reactions When Light Disturbs Darkness

– Attempts to Undermine or “Humble” You

When demons are disturbed, resistance often shows up as subtle criticism, dismissiveness, gossip, or passive attempts to shrink you. This isn’t correction — it’s discomfort with authority and conviction.

– Mislabeling Conviction as Arrogance

There is a difference between arrogance and grounded confidence. But those unwilling to submit to God’s truth often call obedience pride. What they resent isn’t your tone — it’s your refusal to compromise.

– Emotional Withdrawal or Avoidance

Some people pull away because your obedience reminds them of truth they ignored. Your peace exposes their unrest; your consistency highlights their inconsistency.

– Passive-Aggressive Criticism or Judgment

When conviction becomes too uncomfortable, it often turns into criticism. What they refuse to confront internally, they project externally.

– Competition, Comparison, or Resentment

Your favor, clarity, or progress may provoke rivalry or envy. Not because you invited it — but because your light challenges their comfort with stagnation.

It’s Not Personal — It’s Spiritual

This isn’t about personality clashes, communication styles, or misunderstandings.

It’s about:

Light versus darkness Obedience versus rebellion Truth versus compromise

Your life becomes a living witness. And witnesses convict — even in silence.

You are not the problem.

You are the proof that God’s presence is real, active, and uncompromised.

Why You Must Keep Shining

Your light is not vanity — it is testimony.

Your confidence is not ego — it is identity.

Confidence rooted in God reflects the Holy Spirit, not self-exaltation. Light always exposes darkness, and demons never remain comfortable where truth stands firm.

The discomfort your obedience causes is not your burden to manage. You are not called to dim what God ignited to preserve false peace.

What Uncompromising Confidence Looks Like

It looks like humility without insecurity.

Peace without apology.

Conviction without hostility.

Obedience without negotiation.

You continue walking in your calling even when misunderstood.

You respond with calm authority rather than defensiveness.

You lift others without shrinking yourself.

You reflect God’s truth without seeking approval.

When Your Light Exposes Darkness in Others

People with controlling or narcissistic tendencies often react most strongly to those who carry clarity, peace, confidence, and spiritual authority. These qualities expose insecurity, false identity, and resistance to God’s truth.

This is why the opposition can feel intense.

Demons recognize authority — even when people deny it.

Remember: those most disturbed by your light are often those most convicted by it.

Narcissistic Behavior in the Workplace: Why Your Confidence Triggers It

Narcissistic personalities thrive on control, admiration, dominance, superiority, and keeping others “small.” Their sense of stability depends on feeling above others.

When someone enters a space with confidence, competence, emotional stability, peace, spiritual grounding, and a strong identity, it threatens that fragile structure. Your presence challenges their need for control—and that’s when problems begin.

How Narcissistic Insecurity Shows Up

When threatened, narcissistic or deeply insecure individuals often respond with predictable behaviors: subtle put-downs, gossip, competition, attempts to undermine you, anger when you don’t fold, silent treatment, passive aggression, triangulation (turning others against you), and ultimately reframing you as “the problem.”

This is textbook narcissistic insecurity. Narcissists can sense strength—and they resent it.

The Spiritual Side: Why Light Triggers Them

As stated before, your light irritates their demons.

Narcissistic traits flourish in insecurity, pride, ego, manipulation, fear, and the need for control. God-given light threatens that darkness.

People with narcissistic tendencies are deeply uncomfortable around truth, confidence, emotional maturity, spiritual discernment, kindness, and genuine peace—because those qualities expose what they work hard to hide.

This is why narcissists are triggered by people who walk in identity and favor.

When Your Confidence Increases, Their Mask Slips

Narcissists cannot tolerate someone who is not intimidated, does not seek their approval, does not fold under pressure, and remains calm, grounded, and joyful.

The more confident and steady you become, the more their behavior escalates—because your presence reveals everything they try to conceal.

Biblical Pattern + Psychology: The Same Story

David triggered Saul’s jealousy.

Joseph triggered his brothers’ envy and inferiority.

Jesus triggered the Pharisees’ pride and insecurity.

In every case, the chosen one did nothing wrong. The opposition flowed from insecurity, and the response became manipulative, controlling, or abusive. Yet the chosen one rose anyway.

This pattern appears both in Scripture and in modern psychology.

What You’re Experiencing: The “Narcissistic Infection Effect”

One toxic person can shift an entire atmosphere.

They begin by gossiping subtly—not with direct accusations, but with “concerns,” jokes, or observations. These seeds are absorbed without people realizing they’re being influenced.

They use triangulation, saying things like “Everyone’s noticed…” or “People have been saying…” to turn others against you. They play the victim to gain sympathy, act like the “concerned friend” to mask jealousy, and slowly isolate you by filtering how others see you.

Before long, people grow distant or judgmental—without you doing a single thing wrong.

Why They Chose You as the Target

Narcissistic or deeply insecure people target those who are confident, skilled, liked, spiritually grounded, independent thinkers, not easily manipulated, and not intimidated.

Your presence exposes their insecurity. Their unspoken goal becomes: If I can’t shine, I’ll dim their light.

But here’s the truth: you can only dim someone’s light if they allow it. You haven’t—and that’s why the behavior escalates.

How They Pull Others In

Those around them—especially weaker or more insecure individuals—often become easily influenced. They don’t want to be the next target, so they go along. They’re afraid to speak up, emotionally manipulated into thinking they’re being loyal, and drawn into drama under the belief that you are the problem.

This creates a “team-versus-you” dynamic that is both psychological and spiritual.

Scripture shows this clearly: one jealous brother infected the others against Joseph. Saul turned Israel against David through fear and lies. The Pharisees manipulated crowds who once loved Jesus.

One insecure person can poison many—until truth surfaces.

The Good News: The Infection Never Lasts

Toxic influence always burns out. Manipulation cannot stand forever. Truth eventually exposes the manipulator, and the one targeted is elevated.

Joseph became a ruler.

David became king.

Jesus rose in glory.

The pattern never changes.

When One Narcissistic Person Infects a Workplace

Psychology recognizes this behavior as triangulation, projection, smear campaigns, group manipulation, and the use of “flying monkeys.”

A narcissist cannot tolerate someone they can’t control, intimidate, or overshadow. So they isolate you indirectly—planting doubt, spreading concern-based gossip, recruiting others through fear, playing the victim, and reframing you as the issue.

Soon, people who once treated you warmly act differently—not because of who you are, but because of what they’ve been fed.

Psychological Reality Meets Spiritual Truth

Narcissists are drawn to people who are confident, don’t seek approval, can’t be controlled, peaceful, purposeful, and spiritually grounded.

Your confidence threatens their façade.

Your peace threatens their chaos.

Your purpose threatens their stagnation.

In other words, your light irritates everything in them that is dark, unhealed, or insecure. This is both psychological truth and spiritual warfare.

The Pattern Repeats—But So Does the Outcome

David was smeared.

Joseph was betrayed.

Jesus was falsely accused.

One insecure person can turn many cold—until truth is revealed.

And when it is, the chosen one rises.

Final Word: Keep Shining

What you’re experiencing is not personal—it is spiritual and psychological.

Confidence exposes insecurity.

Light exposes darkness.

Purpose exposes jealousy.

Favor exposes pride.

Narcissists react to what threatens them, not to who you truly are.

So keep shining. Keep walking in your purpose. Keep carrying the Holy Spirit boldly. Never dim your God-given light to make someone else comfortable in darkness.

Your rise is coming. Nothing—and no one—can stop what God has ordained.

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** By Ricardo Gomez Angel at Unsplash

10 Wicked Women in the Bible: Lessons on Avoiding Destructive Traits

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The Bible is rich with stories of women whose actions exemplified both righteousness and wickedness, offering lessons that resonate across time. While the virtuous women of Scripture are often celebrated, the wicked women serve as cautionary tales, revealing the destructive consequences of sin, selfishness, and rebellion against God’s will. These women’s stories highlight traits we should avoid in our own lives. In this article, we explore the 10 most wicked women in the Bible, examine their actions, and reflect on the lessons they teach us about the dangers of sin and the importance of living according to God’s ways.

1. Jezebel – The Queen of Idolatry and Deceit (1 Kings 16:31–2 Kings 9:37)

Jezebel, the wife of King Ahab, is one of the most notorious women in Scripture. She led Israel into idolatry, encouraging the worship of Baal and other false gods. She used manipulation and deceit to achieve her ends, even ordering the murder of innocent men, like the prophet Naboth, in order to seize his vineyard (1 Kings 21). Jezebel’s legacy is one of pride, wickedness, and opposition to God’s prophets, ultimately leading to her downfall.

Lesson: Jezebel’s story teaches us the dangers of idolatry, manipulation, and unrepentant pride. We should avoid using deceitful means to gain power or achieve our desires. True fulfillment comes through humility and obedience to God, not through manipulation or self-serving actions.

2. Delilah – The Betrayer (Judges 16:4-22)

Delilah’s story is infamous for her betrayal of Samson, the mighty judge of Israel. After being bribed by the Philistine rulers, she used her relationship with Samson to discover the secret of his strength—his uncut hair. Once she learned it, she betrayed him, leading to his capture and eventual death (Judges 16). Delilah’s love of money and desire for personal gain led her to destroy the man who trusted her.

Lesson: Delilah’s betrayal highlights the destructive power of greed and selfishness. We should be careful in relationships, ensuring that our motives are pure and rooted in trust and loyalty. Betrayal for personal gain can lead to irreversible harm.

3. Athaliah – The Power-Hungry Queen (2 Kings 11:1-20; 2 Chronicles 22:10-23:21)

Athaliah, the daughter of Jezebel, was a ruthless queen who sought to eliminate all potential heirs to the throne, including her own grandchildren, to secure her reign. After her son’s death, she slaughtered the royal family, only sparing her grandson Joash, who was hidden and later crowned king. Her reign was marked by idolatry and bloodshed, and she was eventually overthrown and killed.

Lesson: Athaliah’s thirst for power and her willingness to destroy others to maintain control serve as a stark warning against ambition at any cost. Seeking power through violence, manipulation, and destruction of others will only lead to downfall. God’s sovereignty and justice will prevail in the end.

4. Herodias – The Murderous Conspirator (Mark 6:17-29; Matthew 14:3-12)

Herodias, the wife of King Herod, is remembered for her role in the beheading of John the Baptist. When John publicly condemned her marriage to Herod (her uncle), Herodias held a grudge against him. She plotted with her daughter, Salome, to have John killed, demanding his head as a reward for Salome’s dance. Herodias’ desire for revenge led to a tragic loss of an innocent life.

Lesson: Herodias’ actions reveal the danger of harboring unforgiveness, bitterness, and the desire for revenge. Instead of seeking justice, her heart was filled with malice, leading to a senseless death. We should seek peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation rather than holding onto destructive anger.

5. The Woman of Tekoa – The Deceptive Schemer (2 Samuel 14:1-20)

The woman of Tekoa was sent by King David’s advisor, Joab, to convince David to reconcile with his estranged son Absalom. To achieve this, she used a fabricated story of her own family’s tragedy to manipulate David’s emotions. While she succeeded in her mission, she did so through deception and dishonesty, exploiting David’s compassion to sway his judgment.

Lesson: The woman of Tekoa’s story highlights the dangers of using deceit and manipulation to influence others. While we may be tempted to bend the truth for personal gain, God calls us to honesty and integrity, even in difficult situations.

6. Lot’s Wife – The Woman Who Looked Back (Genesis 19:15-26)

Lot’s wife is often remembered for one tragic action: she looked back at the burning city of Sodom when fleeing God’s destruction. Despite being warned not to look back, she did, and she was turned into a pillar of salt. Her longing for the comforts of her past life led to her demise.

Lesson: Lot’s wife represents the danger of holding on to past sins and worldly attachments. In moments of transition and growth, we must resist the temptation to return to familiar but destructive behaviors. Trusting God’s plan for the future is crucial to moving forward in faith.

7. Sapphira – The Liar (Acts 5:1-11)

Sapphira, along with her husband Ananias, lied to the apostles about the amount of money they had received from selling property, pretending to donate all of it while secretly keeping part for themselves. Their deception was discovered by the Holy Spirit, and they both fell dead as a result of their sin. Sapphira’s sin was not just lying, but attempting to deceive God and the community.

Lesson: Sapphira’s story teaches the destructive power of lying, especially when motivated by selfishness or greed. God sees all, and pretending to be something we are not can have severe consequences. Integrity and honesty are key to living in alignment with God’s will.

8. The Witch of Endor – The Practitioner of Sorcery (1 Samuel 28:3-25)

The Witch of Endor was a medium whom King Saul consulted when he was desperate to hear from the spirit of the deceased prophet Samuel. Despite the Lord’s commands against necromancy and sorcery, Saul sought her out for guidance. This act of disobedience and reliance on occult practices ultimately led to his downfall.

Lesson: The Witch of Endor represents the danger of seeking spiritual guidance outside of God’s will. Practices such as witchcraft, sorcery, and necromancy are forbidden because they turn us away from trusting in God and His sovereignty. We must be vigilant against seeking guidance from any source other than the Lord.

9. Hagar – The Bitter Outsider (Genesis 16:1-16)

Hagar, Sarah’s Egyptian maidservant, became the mother of Ishmael after Sarah, unable to have children, gave her to Abraham as a surrogate. Hagar’s bitterness towards Sarah and her prideful behavior caused tension and conflict in the household. Though she was a victim of her circumstances, her actions reflect an unwillingness to accept God’s timing.

Lesson: Hagar’s story teaches the importance of patience and trust in God’s plan. When we take matters into our own hands instead of waiting for God’s provision, it can lead to unnecessary conflict and heartache. God’s timing is always best.

10. Eve – The First Sinner (Genesis 3:1-24)

Eve, the first woman created by God, is infamous for her role in the Fall of humanity. She was deceived by the serpent into eating the forbidden fruit and then gave it to Adam. Her disobedience led to the expulsion of humanity from the Garden of Eden and the entrance of sin into the world.

Lesson: Eve’s actions highlight the consequences of disobedience and the temptation of sin. While we may face similar temptations in our lives, we must resist the urge to act outside of God’s commands. The story of Eve also reminds us of God’s grace and the hope for redemption through Christ.

Conclusion

The stories of these wicked women in the Bible serve as stark reminders of the destructive power of sin and the consequences of defying God’s will. Each of their actions led to harm, whether through pride, manipulation, deceit, revenge, jealousy, greed, disbelief or rebellion. However, their stories also offer us valuable lessons: to avoid pride, greed, deception, and unforgiveness, and to instead live in humility, honesty, patience, and obedience to God. By learning from their mistakes, we can strive to cultivate godly character and avoid the destructive traits that led to their downfall. May we look to these stories not just as warnings, but as opportunities to grow in wisdom and grace.

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** Photo by Jelena Kostic at Pexels

A Guide to Understanding and Addressing Bullying

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What is Bullying?

Bullying is a repeated, intentional behavior that exploits a power imbalance. It can occur in schools, workplaces, social groups, online spaces, or even in communities that are expected to be safe. Bullying is harmful and manipulative, and its effects can be long-lasting, impacting emotional, psychological, social, and physical well-being.

Forms of Bullying

Bullying can manifest in numerous ways:

Physical bullying: Harming someone’s body or belongings through hitting, pushing, theft, or vandalism.

Verbal bullying: Name-calling, teasing, threats, or degrading comments.

Emotional bullying: Intimidation, humiliation, belittling, shaming, or undermining a person’s confidence.

Social bullying: Collective isolation, exclusion from groups, spreading rumors, withholding important information, and manipulating friendships or social relationships.

Cyberbullying: Harassment, threats, or humiliation online via social media, messaging, or email, often anonymous and relentless, leaving victims with no safe space to retreat.

Bullying often combines several forms simultaneously. For example, social bullying can be accompanied by emotional manipulation, and cyberbullying may amplify verbal attacks.

Why People Bully

Individuals engage in bullying behavior for a variety of reasons. Some act out of a desire for control, dominance, or social power. Others may have insecurities, jealousy, or fear of being exposed, using bullying to deflect attention from their vulnerabilities. Some have learned aggressive or manipulative behaviors from past environments or family dynamics. Bullies often present a socially acceptable or competent exterior to hide harmful tendencies.

In group situations, bullying can escalate as individuals join in to protect themselves, gain favor, or conform to social pressures, especially when the bully is popular or influential. This group dynamic can make bullying more intimidating and difficult to address.

Why Victims Often Do Not Report

Victims frequently do not report bullying due to fear, shame, embarrassment, or uncertainty about how to respond. Many endure it silently, hoping it will die down, only to find the behavior escalates. Bullies frequently triangulate conflicts, drawing others in, spreading misinformation, or manipulating peers to isolate the victim. This can intensify the victim’s sense of powerlessness and encourage more people to participate, particularly if the bully is socially dominant.

Impacts on Victims

Bullying can affect individuals in multiple ways:

Emotional impacts: Anxiety, depression, fear, loss of confidence, and social withdrawal.

Physical impacts: Headaches, stomach aches, sleep disturbances, or other stress-related symptoms.

Social impacts: Isolation, loss of friendships, or reluctance to engage in school, work, or community activities.

Academic or professional impacts: Decreased performance, absenteeism, or disengagement.

Warning Signs of Bullying

Early recognition of warning signs is essential for timely intervention. Victims may exhibit:

Avoidance of certain people, places, or social situations. Sudden changes in mood, behavior, or personality. Unexplained physical injuries or complaints such as headaches or stomach aches. Withdrawal from friends, colleagues, or usual activities. Reluctance or anxiety about engaging with digital devices or online spaces. Decreased performance at school or work, missed deadlines, or frequent absenteeism.

Recognizing these warning signs can allow friends, family, educators, or colleagues to intervene and provide support before bullying escalates further.

Addressing Bullying

For Children

Parents and guardians play a critical role by encouraging open communication, creating safe spaces to discuss experiences, and teaching empathy and coping strategies. Practical steps include supporting children in forming healthy friendships, knowing when to remove themselves from harmful situations, and seeking help from trusted adults or school authorities. Schools play a key role by establishing anti-bullying policies, fostering inclusion and empathy, and responding promptly to cyberbullying with digital safety education.

For Adults

Bullying in adulthood can be subtle and complex, including exclusion from key information, undermining work or professional contributions, intimidation, or social manipulation. Adults can respond by documenting incidents, setting firm boundaries, seeking guidance from trusted colleagues or human resources, and escalating concerns through formal channels when necessary. Maintaining self-care through counseling, stress management, and supportive relationships is vital for coping with the impact of bullying.

Cyberbullying

Special precautions are needed for online harassment. Protective strategies include monitoring online interactions, using privacy settings, reporting harassment, and seeking support from trusted individuals or professionals. Communities, organizations, and institutions must foster cultures of accountability, respect, and inclusion to minimize opportunities for bullying to thrive.

Collective and Group Dynamics

Bullying often escalates in group settings. A popular or influential individual may orchestrate or encourage others to participate, using peer pressure, triangulation, or manipulation. Victims may be socially ostracized or misrepresented, reinforcing the bully’s control and isolation. Recognizing these patterns is essential in schools, workplaces, and social settings to prevent escalation and protect vulnerable individuals.

What Can Be Done About Bullying

Addressing and preventing bullying requires coordinated action from both individuals and organizations. Effective strategies include:

Recognize and acknowledge bullying: Understand its various forms and warning signs.

Document incidents: Keep detailed records for reporting or escalation.

Set boundaries: Clearly communicate limits and refuse to tolerate abuse.

Seek support: Engage trusted friends, family, colleagues, mentors, or professional advisors.

Report: Escalate concerns to schools, HR departments, or legal authorities when necessary.

Promote safe environments: Encourage policies, training, and programs that prevent bullying and support victims. Practice self-care: Prioritize mental and physical well-being, counseling, stress management, and supportive relationships.

Bullying thrives in secrecy and silence. By recognizing harmful behavior, standing firm in boundaries, supporting victims, reporting incidents, and creating accountable environments, individuals and organizations can reduce the prevalence and impact of bullying. Awareness, intervention, and consistent action are essential for creating communities where all individuals feel respected, safe, and valued.

Practical Strategies for Immediate Response

When facing bullying in real time, victims can use several practical strategies to protect themselves and respond safely:

Stay calm: Take deep breaths and avoid responding impulsively, which can escalate the situation.

Document immediately: Write down what happened, including times, dates, people involved, and witnesses. This creates a factual record for future reporting.

Set clear boundaries: If safe to do so, assertively communicate that the behavior is unacceptable. Simple statements like “I do not accept being treated this way” can establish limits.

Remove yourself if possible: Step away from the situation to reduce immediate risk and regain emotional control.

Seek support immediately: Contact a trusted friend, colleague, family member, or supervisor.

Having someone aware of the situation provides validation and protection.

Report through formal channels: Inform HR, school authorities, managers, or other relevant authorities.

Include documented evidence. Do not isolate yourself: Engage with supportive networks or professional help, such as counseling or advocacy groups, to process emotions and plan next steps.

Practice self-care: Prioritize physical and mental well-being through rest, healthy routines, and stress management techniques.

These strategies help victims respond safely, protect themselves, and prevent bullying from escalating further. Combined with organizational accountability and proactive measures, they form a comprehensive approach to reducing harm and fostering safer environments.

What to Do if You or Someone You Know is Being Bullied

The Bible reminds us that God is “a refuge for the oppressed” (Psalm 9:9). Whether you’re experiencing bullying or supporting someone who is, take these steps:

1. Pray for strength and wisdom: Trust in God’s power to protect and guide you (Psalm 46:1).

2. Seek support from trusted individuals: Speak with a parent, teacher, supervisor, or pastor.

3. Avoid harmful situations: Stay in safe, supportive environments and seek godly counsel.

4. Report the behavior: Escalate concerns to appropriate authorities, trusting that God is a God of justice (Isaiah 30:18).

Self-Care and Mental Health: Restoring Hope Through Christ

Bullying can leave deep emotional scars, but God offers healing and hope.

• Find peace in God’s presence: Turn to Scriptures like Philippians 4:6-7 to experience God’s peace in times of distress.

• Seek help from Christian counselors: Don’t hesitate to involve professionals who share a biblical perspective on healing and wholeness.

• Celebrate your worth in Christ: Remember, you are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). Surround yourself with uplifting people who affirm your value in God’s eyes.

Seeking Help and Support

If you or someone you know is experiencing bullying, remember that you are not alone. Reach out for help and trust in God’s promise: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).

Below are resources to guide you toward safety and healing:

In the USA

• National Bullying Prevention Center (PACER): Offers resources for children, parents, and educators to address bullying. Visit pacer.org/bullying or call 1-952-838-9000.

• StopBullying.gov: A government resource that provides information on how to recognize, prevent, and address bullying. Visit stopbullying.gov.

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: If bullying has caused emotional distress, contact 988 (or 1-800-273-TALK) for immediate assistance.

• Christian Counseling Resources: Seek guidance from faith-based counseling services such as Focus on the Family (focusonthefamily.com) or the American Association of Christian Counselors (aacc.net).

In the UK

• National Bullying Helpline: Provides practical advice for individuals dealing with bullying. Call 0300 323 0169 or email help@nationalbullyinghelpline.co.uk.

• Anti-Bullying Alliance: Offers resources and campaigns to help prevent bullying in schools and communities. Visit anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk.

• Childline: A resource for children and young people facing bullying. Call 0800 1111 or visit childline.org.uk.

• Bullying UK (Family Lives): Support for families and individuals dealing with bullying. Call their helpline at 0808 800 2222 or visit bullying.co.uk.

Encourage your church community to support anti-bullying efforts by sharing these resources and fostering environments where individuals feel safe and valued. Remember, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).

*** Photo by Alexander Krivitskiy at Pexels