The Bible is full of advice and wisdom about how to cope with difficult situations. One of the most common is the issue of being taken advantage of. We all know the feeling of being taken advantage of, whether it be at work or in our relationships. Maybe it’s a boss who takes your ideas and argues they are the only way to do things, or a partner who takes all the credit for your efforts. Whatever the context, the Bible has much to say about how to cope.
The book of Proverbs cautions against meddling in the affairs of others. Proverbs 26:17 warns us not to “answer fools according to their folly, lest you be like them yourself.” Instead, it suggests that we should simply ignore them and their antics. It also suggests that we should be wary of those who would take advantage of us, and be careful not to give them power over us.
The Bible also outlines the idea of “bearing the burden” for others. It is possible to be taken advantage of, but it is also possible to have that burden eased by allowing others to share in the burden. Matthew 11:28-30 outlines this concept, saying, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
The Bible also encourages us to be mindful of how we treat others. Ephesians 4:32 states, “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” It is in this spirit of kindness and compassion that we can avoid taking advantage of others and instead lift them up.
The Bible also teaches that while it is important to be aware of those who would take advantage of us, we should not forget to be aware of our own actions. Galatians 6:7 states, “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” This verse reminds us that the actions we take will have repercussions, and that no good can come of taking advantage of another person.
On Refusing To Be Bullied
It is important to not give into bullies. Proverbs 24:11 warns us to “Rescue those who are being taken away to death; hold back those who are stumbling to the slaughter.” If someone is trying to take advantage of us, we have a responsibility to stand up for ourselves and not let them push us around. We can do this in a respectful and kind way, but one that still leaves us feeling strong and empowered.
In the face of adversity, we should also be mindful of our self-talk. Philippians 4:8 admonishes us to, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” A positive mindset is key in resisting being taken advantage of and helping to maintain our dignity and self-confidence.
Another key tactic in fighting against being taken advantage of is to maintain boundaries. Setting clear expectations and sticking to them is key, even if it may lead to confrontation. We can also learn how to recognize and respond to manipulative behavior and encourage assertiveness in the face of it.
On Taking Advantage Of The Vulnerable
The Bible speaks strongly against taking advantage of the vulnerable. In a now-famous quote, Jesus said, “Whatsoever you do unto the least of these my brethren, you do also unto me.” (Matthew 25:40). This suggests that if we take advantage of those who are unable to protect themselves, it is ultimately a sin against God.
The Bible also outlines the consequences for taking advantage of the vulnerable. Leviticus 19:14 warns, “You shall not oppress your neighbor or rob him. The wages of a hired servant shall not remain with you all night until the morning.” That is, exploiting those who are in a position of powerlessness is not acceptable, and God will not allow such acts to go unpunished.
God also outlines what we should do in the face of exploitation of the vulnerable. We are called to stand up for and protect them, to speak out against injustice and hold people accountable for their actions. In Proverbs 31:8-9, the Bible says, “Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.” It is important for us to take this advice seriously and be diligent in defending those who can’t defend themselves.
On Responding To Unfairness
When we are taken advantage of, it can be difficult to respond in a way that is true to the teachings of the Bible. It can be tempting to respond with anger and retribution, but the Bible calls us to a more measured and thoughtful response. We are called to explore different angles of the situation and consider our options, while at the same time maintaining our sense of dignity.
The book of Job teaches us the importance of patience. In Job 1:21, Job says, “The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.” We can find strength in this idea, that ultimately all things work together for our good and the glory of God. This can be a source of comfort and solace in times of trial.
We should also remember that we can’t take matters into our own hands. While it is important to be mindful of justice, it is ultimately up to God to judge us. Romans 12:19 reminds us that vengeance belongs to God, “Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’”
In our relationships with others, it is also important to consider how we can move forward in a constructive way. We should give grace to those who have wronged us, understanding that rarely is anyone motivated only by malice. We can learn from our mistakes and be thankful for the learning opportunities they offer us.
On Practicing Forgiveness
The Bible reminds us time and time again about the importance of forgiveness. In Matthew 5:44, Jesus says, “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” We can take comfort in knowing that we can forgive those who have taken advantage of us, knowing that it is the best way forward.
We can also apply the principle of forgiveness to ourselves. It can be easy to blame ourselves for being taken advantage of, but we must remember that God is always in control. We can be kind to ourselves and forgive our own mistakes, knowing that even in failure, there is an opportunity to learn and grow.
The Bible also encourages us to consider how our words and actions can help others avoid being taken advantage of. Ephesians 4:32 tells us to “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” We can share the wisdom we have learned with those who have not yet gone through similar experiences, and help them to be aware of potential pitfalls and better equipped to cope.
On Finding Strength in Faith
Finding strength in faith can be a profound source of comfort and solace in times of difficulty. In Psalm 55:22, we can find strength, “Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.” We can be assured of the Lord’s protection and shelter, that no matter what we face, we can trust in him.
The Bible also encourages us to remember the ultimate victory of God. At our lowest points, it can be difficult to see the long-term picture, but faith in the Lord allows us to remember that His plan will ultimately prevail. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose.”
The Bible is full of wisdom and advice to help us cope with being taken advantage of. We can trust in the Lord’s protection and guidance, and rely on the grace and mercy of Christ to sustain us. We must also take this advice seriously and be diligent in defending those who can’t protect themselves. May we each be blessed with the fortitude and discernment needed to find healing and hope in difficult times.
