Toxic Co-Workers

I concluded the our most recent series: Handling Toxic People. You can listen to the sermon on Handling Toxic Co-Workers here.

A toxic co-worker makes me feel worse about myself with every interaction.

Wisdom will save you from evil people, from those whose speech is corrupt. These people turn from right ways to walk down dark and evil paths. They rejoice in doing wrong, and they enjoy evil as it turns things upside down. What they do is crooked, and their ways are wrong. -Proverbs 2:12-19

Happy is the person who finds wisdom and gains understanding. For the profit of wisdom is better than silver, and her wages are better than gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. She offers you life in her right hand, and riches and honor in her left. She will guide you down delightful paths; all her ways are satisfying. Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy are those who hold her tightly. -Proverbs 3:13-18

Wisdom will multiply your days and add years to your life. If you become wise, you will be the one to benefit. If you scorn wisdom, you will be the one to suffer. -Proverbs 9:11-12

Wisdom at work requires me to recognize the bigger issues

1. I can’t control other people
2. I can’t force others to change
3. Imperfect people sin and cause damage

Ask for God’s Wisdom

Getting wisdom is the most important thing you can do! If you prize wisdom, she will exalt you. Embrace her and she will honor you.
-Proverbs 4:7-8

Avoid the toxic “open doors”

Do not do as the wicked do or follow the path of evildoers. Avoid their haunts. Turn away and go somewhere else, for evil people cannot sleep until they have done their evil deed for the day. They cannot rest unless they have caused someone to stumble. -Proverbs 4:14-16My child, if sinners entice you, turn your back on them! -Proverbs 1:10

Use words that build up

The words of the wicked are like a murderous ambush, but the words of the godly save lives. -Proverbs 12:6

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger.
-Proverbs 15:1

When arguing with fools, don't answer their foolish arguments, or you will become as foolish as they are. -Proverbs 26:4