Manipulators

.....There are a few red flags that we can spot when dealing with manipulation.

The first one is concealing the truth. The difference between manipulation and influence is deception. Influencers move you by revealing truth. Manipulators move you by concealing truth.


Next is when your options are limited. When you’re in this situation, you feel forced, like you’re having to make a complex decision with oversimplified choices.

• Example: “We either need to vote for ....... or leave altogether.”

Reminds me of the question for Jesus about paying taxes to Ceasar or not. Red flag. That’s manipulation.

Third is scaring you into action.

Fear is the father of manipulation. It’s straight up intimidation, and it works two ways:

1. Scare you with what they can do
2. Scare you with what might happen

• Example: “If you don’t apologize, I’ll leave the church… right after I tell everyone else about it.”

Next is when guilt is used. This is the passive aggressive approach. They seem so pathetic that you feel guilty for not helping.

• Example: “Aren’t Christians supposed to help others? Then why aren’t you helping me when I’m in need?” [Implied: You're not really a {good} Christian.]

Serving is a response, not a requirement. Spotting manipulation means watching for people who point out requirements.

Then, there is flattery. 
“Such people are not serving Christ our Lord; they are serving their own personal interests. By smooth talk and glowing words they deceive innocent people. ” -Romans 16:18

We’re usually pretty good about noting the difference between genuine compliments and compliments with strings attached. The problem is that even when we notice, we like going along with it because it makes us feel better.