Shining the Light of Truth: 8 Faith-Focused Ways to Discern Gaslighting and Stand Firm in Your Spiritual Reality
Dr. Melanie Brooks, PsyD // Wisdom & Empowerment // EEW Magazine Online
Gaslighting is a covert form of psychological manipulation intended to sow seeds of doubt in a believer's heart, making them question their own perceptions and the reality of God's promises. This insidious tactic, reminiscent of the serpent's deceit in the Garden of Eden, can manifest in relationships, workplaces, and digital congregations.
As daughters of the King, it is vital to arm ourselves with discernment to protect our mental and spiritual well-being. Therefore, EEW Magazine Online is sharing with you will 8 critical methods to identify gaslighting, infused with the wisdom of the Word, and offering guidance on how to reclaim the truth of your identity in Christ.
#1 Constant Denial of Reality: Gaslighting manifests through a persistent denial of truths and events. When someone repeatedly undermines your experiences, it's like the enemy whispering lies to make you doubt God's work in your life. Hold fast to the solid foundation of your faith and the assurance that "the truth shall set you free" (John 8:32).
#2 Projection of Fault and Blame: The gaslighter's tactic of shifting blame mirrors the accuser's voice, aiming to steal your peace and leave you carrying burdens not meant for you. Remember that in Christ, there is no condemnation (Romans 8:1), and you are not responsible for the sins of others.
#3 Isolation and Alienation: Just as the enemy seeks to isolate us from our flock, gaslighters may attempt to sever your godly connections. Stay vigilant if you sense a growing distance from your Christian community. "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them" (Matthew 18:20). Cherish and maintain these holy relationships.
Seek God for discernment. He will help you identify gaslighters so you can fortify your spirit against them (Credit: Ben Dotson for EEW Magazine)
#4 Inconsistent Communication: A gaslighter's changing stories and denials can be disorienting. In contrast, God's word remains unchanging. Documenting interactions and comparing them to the unwavering truth of scripture can help you discern deception. "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away" (Matthew 24:35).
#5 Undermining Self-Confidence: Gaslighting aims to erode your God-given confidence and worth. When you hear whispers of doubt, remember who you are in Christ, "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalm 139:14). Reaffirming your identity as a child of God is key to resisting these attacks.
#6 Distorting Spiritual Truths: A gaslighter may twist scripture or spiritual principles to manipulate and control. It's essential to have a firm understanding of biblical teachings to recognize when God's word is being misused. "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16).
#7 Overruling Your Inner Discernment: The Holy Spirit provides us with discernment to distinguish truth from falsehood. If someone dismisses or devalues the spiritual wisdom you express, it may be an attempt to gaslight you. Trust the "still small voice" (1 Kings 19:12) within you that aligns with the Holy Spirit's guidance.
#8 Exploiting Forgiveness and Grace: Gaslighters might exploit your Christian values of forgiveness and grace to avoid accountability for their actions. While we are called to forgive, it does not mean tolerating continued harm. Establish boundaries that reflect the respect you deserve, guided by the wisdom, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it" (Proverbs 4:23).
Gaslighting is a serious form of emotional and spiritual warfare that can undermine your faith and well-being. However, by leaning on the Lord's understanding, staying connected to your faith community, and wielding the armor of God's truth, you can discern and overcome these tactics. Stand firm in your spiritual reality, knowing that you are held in the loving hands of our Father, who is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).
