Those People

This Weekend At Life Bridge

We all like the concept of loving everyone. However, there are some folks that make it more challenging than others. You know, “those people.”

• Overly Needy People – We want to help people in need, but some people never seem to get enough. The more time, money and attention you give them the more they want. You’re pouring into their cup but their cup seems to have a whole at the bottom!
• Manipulative People – They always seem to be controlling everything and everyone around them. They compliment and flatter you at times, but are just as quick to use guilt so that their will might be done.
• Hypocritical People – Two-faced to a tee. Living in the compromise between who they are, and who they want people to think they are, is just fine with them.
• Critical People – Always negative. Pointing out the faults of others and always seeming to find something wrong with what you are doing seems to be their hobby.

People like this drive us crazy and, in many cases, make us cynical about the human race. We sometimes daydream of buying a secret island and living in peace far from their reach.

Help is On the Way

Never fear, scripture is loaded with wisdom on dealing with each of these personalities. Caring for people is not a one-size-fits-all, and Jesus dealt with individuals differently. Compassion, avoidance and confrontation were all part of Jesus’ approach. Learning when and how to use these approaches will dramatically change your view of people.  Who knows… you might even be able to really help someone!
We all have difficult people in our lives. Let’s learn how we can live with—and show love to—Those People.