The company you keep has the power to make you or break you, so choose your friends wisely. Everyone has shades of dysfunction that need to be identified and eliminated.
Talking Points:
- The Toxic person is pessimistic and negative, always tearing people down. Their own insecurities create a chaotic environment that breeds disunity. Ephesians 4:29
- The Loner is lost in his own world, to inwardly focused to be present. They avoid developing authentic, intimate relationships. Hebrews 10:24-25
- The Fake is afraid to speak the truth, for better or worse. They stroke the ego to keep the relationship rather than risking losing it.
- A healthy person has the good of others in mind, no matter the cost. They genuinely celebrate others’ success…but lovingly confront when needed. Proverbs 19:20
Discussion Questions:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- How have you seen the company you keep affect you, both positively and negatively.
- How are you a toxic person? Why is it hard to be around a negative, pessimistic person? How has a toxic person done lasting damage to you, your family, or co-workers?
- Read Ephesians 4:29. How does this verse apply to a toxic person? How can you improve on living out this verse in your relationships?
- How are you a loner? How has a loner in your life disappointed you?
- Read Hebrews 10:24-25. Why can’t you have authentic relationships without engaging with others?
- In what relationships are you fake? Why have you chosen to be that way? Why do people fear sharing their true feelings? Why do fake relationships breed dysfunction?
- Do you have healthy relationships? Explain. Share how you celebrate with others’ successes?
- Read Proverbs 19:20. Share a time you lovingly confronted someone. Has a friend ever lovingly confronted you about something? How did you respond?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
