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Dealing with Narcissists God’s Way
- Angela Startz, MAHSC, CMCLC
- Jul 29
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 14
The Bible doesn’t explicitly address “narcissism” but offers wisdom for handling prideful, manipulative, or self-centered people. As a Christian mental health coach, I've seen how God's Word offers wisdom and peace when believers face these challenging relationships. Below are key Scriptures with practical applications:
Proverbs 16:18 – “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
Application: Recognize that narcissistic behavior often leads to self-destruction. Avoid being drawn into their prideful schemes and trust God to handle their consequences. Maintain humility in your own responses to avoid escalating conflicts.
Proverbs 22:10 – “Drive out the mocker, and out goes strife; quarrels and insults are ended.”
Application: When dealing with someone who manipulates or mocks others (common narcissistic traits), setting boundaries may be necessary. Limiting interaction can reduce conflict and protect your peace.
Matthew 7:6 – “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.”
Application: Be discerning about sharing personal or valuable things with narcissists, as they may exploit or devalue them. Protect your emotional and spiritual well-being by not over-investing in untrustworthy individuals.
Romans 12:17-21 – “Do not repay anyone evil for evil… If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone… Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
Application: Narcissists may provoke or manipulate, but respond with integrity and kindness without enabling their behavior. Entrust justice to God rather than seeking revenge, as vengeance belongs to Him (v. 19).
Proverbs 26:4-5 – “Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him. Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.”
Application: This paradoxical advice suggests discernment. Avoid engaging in pointless arguments with a narcissist, as it may fuel their ego or drag you into their drama. However, when necessary, calmly confront their falsehoods to prevent them from justifying their behavior unchecked.
Ephesians 6:12-13 – “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against… the spiritual forces of evil… Therefore put on the full armor of God…”
Application: Dealing with narcissistic behavior can feel like a spiritual battle. Equip yourself with prayer, truth, and faith to remain grounded and avoid being manipulated or emotionally drained.
James 4:6-7 – “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble. Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
Application: Stay humble and reliant on God when facing narcissistic individuals. Resist their manipulative tactics by staying rooted in God’s truth, and seek His strength to avoid being swayed by their pride.
Practical Summary for Dealing with Narcissists
Set Boundaries: Limit exposure to manipulative or toxic behavior (Proverbs 22:10).
Stay Humble and Grounded: Avoid reacting impulsively to their provocations (Proverbs 16:18, James 4:6).
Use Discernment: Don’t waste energy on fruitless arguments or sharing vulnerabilities they might exploit (Matthew 7:6, Proverbs 26:4-5).
Respond with Grace: Overcome their evil with good, but don’t enable their behavior (Romans 12:17-21).
Seek God’s Strength: Rely on prayer and spiritual armor to navigate interactions (Ephesians 6:12-13).
It’s simple, but it is not easy! If you need guidance and support dealing with the narcissist in your life, Called2Rise offers faith-based coaching to help you stay grounded in God's truth, set healthy boundaries, and walk in peace.
Mental Health & Relationship Coach
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