Narcissism is an excessive display of love of self. Ministry is the perfect place for narcissists to TRY to hide out in because it is often personality driven, superficial and fueled by circus like activity. People, especially here in the United States, follow a groupie, fanatical and/or celebrity mindset surrounding religion and spirituality, so it’s makes them easy pray to these personality types. This isn’t just me talking, there are many credible studies and psychological reports that offer truths worth considering.
If you know what to look for, however, narcissists EASILY reveal themselves. It is literally impossible for these “self-love” addicts to leave the spotlight no matter how small or large the audience. THEY FIND A WAY TO BE SEEN AND CENTER THEMSELVES AS GOD’S IN PEOPLE’S LIVES DEMANDING ATTENTION AND WORSHIP.
If ever there was an evil to starve or dismiss, its them – standing at the center of every circus setup in the church. And the love “the arts.”
The top three signs of a narcissist include:
1. They have this HUGE view of their own importance. Literally, they think more highly of themselves than they ought…. and go over board to make sure you know it. It wears the disguise of confidence and walking in the identity of Christ. They talk about SELF a lot! If they can, they exploit their physical self as well… igniting the lust of the corrupt heart. They attempt to fool people with accomplishments, outside appearances, entertainment, etc. They love SHOWS, crowds, etc. The kicker, however, is that they are always accompanied by the next two points.
2. They are entitled! They live in the place of thinking “they have a right to anything” including all your time, resources, talents and exclusive loyalty. They are excellent at justifying this and manipulating “certain types of people” around them to believe they deserve all that they have too. People become puppets, toys and slaves to them. Religion, twisting it, is used to control people. They can take one scripture and make it about how “it means” to honor and take care of them beyond common sense. They have NO SHAME or GUILT when it comes to using other people.
3. They thrive on flattery, admiration and praise. They WILL DO ANYTHING to set up atmospheres for praise and adoration. Without this component… they become mean and feel unappreciated. They can become vengeful, mean and cruel if ignored or feel neglected…. and gain power from the misery of others who remain faithful anyway.
SOLUTION:
God alone must humble such people. You, well, just get out of the way.
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These types, however, cannot hide themselves. The very nature of who they are demand that they are revealed. We just need to know the signs and recognize our own vulnerability to their wicked tricks. Prov 28:12 (July 31, 2020)
