As Christians, it can be really hard to imagine God telling us not to help someone. But according to Scripture, there are times when helping someone can actually be more hurtful than you realize.
The Scriptures are clear that Satan uses certain people to harm Christians. For example, 2 Corinthians 11:15 states that Satan has human servants. 2 Timothy 2:26 says people are captured by Satan to do his will. In John 8:44, Jesus said to those who hated him, “You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires.”
Did you get romantically involved with someone, but now your mental health is a wreck? Or is there someone at work who seems to be demonically empowered to say the most hurtful thing at the most hurtful time? Or maybe you have a toxic family member who has routinely abused your mind despite your best efforts to stop them?
Many Christians feel that it’s wrong to stand up to rude people, as though the Bible somehow forbids us from defending ourselves from disrespectful behavior. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Relationships shape our lives. The people we allow close to us influence our choices, our faith, and our future.
Life is filled with relationships—family, friends, co-workers, church members, and even casual acquaintances. While many of these relationships are God’s blessings, there are times when Scripture makes it clear that removing someone from your life may be the wisest and most obedient step to take.
In Scripture, betrayal is not only a recurring theme but often something God warns his people about ahead of time. If you are walking closely with God and paying attention to the subtle leading of the Holy Spirit, he may begin to show you signs that someone in your life is not as loyal as they seem.
