Toxic People

I think Christians in particular have a very hard time knowing how to deal with toxic people (especially if it's family). I know for myself, I often think of that verse that says to "turn the other cheek" and assume that means I just need to grin and bear it. 

Something I've noticed, though, while reading the gospels recently, is that Jesus didn't just let people run their mouths at Him. If someone was trying to manipulate him, He'd answer their question with a question of His own. He'd walk away or even simply stay silent. He kinda let the air out of their tanks (thanks, Lego Movie) and stopped them in their tracks by making them think. 

It's worth noting that He wouldn't get into long, drawn-out, heated debates with people, but He wasn't afraid to speak the truth in love either. His identity wasn't found in forcing someone to believe or even understand Him (how I wish more people understood this). 

I struggle with this greatly. I feel like it's my responsibility to explain myself to someone if they misunderstand my heart or intent. If someone is being rude to me because we have differing beliefs or values, I feel like I have to try and make them see where I'm coming from in order to keep the peace.

One quickly realizes, though, that most people are not open-minded and do not want to hear that their viewpoints are different than yours or that they're potentially (gasp) incorrect. Many people are very hard-hearted (hard-headed?) and will never be open to a different viewpoint... and that's really sad, but it's not your fault.

I think it's worth remembering that Jesus told his disciples that if they weren't welcome in a town, to shake the dust off their sandals and move on. He didn't say to argue them to death. Sometimes it's better to agree to disagree, but be aware that sometimes others won't even go for that. 

Also be aware that if you put up a boundary and step away from the chaos, that person may become offended and make efforts to turn others against you. I don't fully understand why people do this, but then what makes a bully? I guess there's some sort of solace in having others side with them if they discover they don't agree with you on something. It's really sad and SUPER frustrating, but don't go low like them. Come up higher. Stay above it.