Dealing With Difficult People Series

As Christians, we are called to love and interact with people from all walks of life, including those who can be challenging to deal with. Difficult people can be found in our families, workplaces, churches, and communities. So, how do we respond to them in a way that honors God?

The Bible provides valuable guidance on how to deal with difficult people. In this sermon, we will explore biblical principles and examples that can help us navigate these challenging relationships.

Jesus' Example

Jesus is our ultimate example of how to deal with difficult people. During His ministry, He encountered many individuals who were hostile, argumentative, or simply difficult to deal with. Yet, He consistently responded with love, compassion, and wisdom.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught His followers to "love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you" (Luke 6:27-28). This teaching is counterintuitive to our natural human instincts, but it is essential for building strong, healthy relationships.

Responding to Difficult People

So, how do we respond to difficult people in a way that honors God? Here are some biblical principles to consider:

Love and kindness: Treat difficult people with love and kindness, just as Jesus would. "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Galatians 5:14).

Patience and self-control: Respond to difficult people with patience and self-control, rather than reacting impulsively. "A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult" (Proverbs 12:16).

Avoid quarrels: If possible, avoid quarrels and disputes with difficult people. "It is to one's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel" (Proverbs 20:3).

Pray for them: Pray for difficult people, asking God to bless and transform them. "Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you" (Luke 6:28).

Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries with difficult people to protect yourself and maintain healthy relationships. "Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered" (Proverbs 22:24).

Conclusion

Dealing with difficult people is an inevitable part of life. However, as Christians, we are called to respond to them in a way that honors God. By following Jesus' example and applying biblical principles, we can navigate challenging relationships with love, kindness, patience, and self-control. Remember, our goal is not to "win" arguments or prove ourselves right, but to demonstrate the love and grace of God to everyone, including those who may be difficult to deal with.