Best Books for Dealing with Toxic People (God’s Way)

Many Christians have the idea that a Christ-follower must be accepting of other people to the point where we tolerate toxic behavior all in the name of love. But toxic people are a breed unto themselves. When I say “toxic people,” I’m not talking about struggling, broken people; I’m referring to difficult people who are not dealing with their issues and causing intentional harm to others.

To think that you could change such a person is not biblical; it’s prideful.

There is one person you can change, and that’s you. More specifically, you can change how you identify and deal with these seemingly devil-sent individuals.

The following six books can help you break free from the chains in which toxic people bind you.

Safe People
By Henry Cloud and John Townsend

Have you ever given your best and gotten the worst in return? In this highly practical reference guide, Henry Cloud and John Townsend teach you the traits of unsafe people and help you recognize what makes people trustworthy.

Boundaries
By Henry Cloud and John Townsend

If you feel like you always have to say yes to everyone’s requests and it’s leaving you feeling drained and unappreciated, you will want to grab this book. Another amazing resource by Henry Cloud and John Townsend, Boundariesteaches you how to let limits and still be a loving person.

Should I Stay or Should I Go?
By Dr. Ramani Durvasula

In this modern epidemic of narcissism, many who interact with left can often feel confused, insecure and frustrated. In this book, author Dr. Ramani Durvasula gives you the tools to help you navigate through the rough terrain of narcissistic relationships and determine the best course of action for your situation.

When to Walk Away: Finding Freedom from Toxic People
By Gary Thomas

As Christians we often feel the guilt and responsibility of meeting the needs of unhealthy people in our lives. Author Gary Thomas helps you to learn the difference between difficult and toxic people and how to keep a tender heart even in unhealthy relationships.

It’s not Supposed to Be this Way: Finding Unexpected Strength When Disappointments Leave You Shattered
By Lysa Terkeurst

We can easily find ourselves disillusion and disappointed by life, especially when we are dealing with toxic people. The pain and hurt can leave you feeling shattered. Author Lysa Terkeurst shares deeply from her own experience of pain and invites you to discover the secret of being steadfast and not panicking when God actually does give you more than you can handle.

The Anger Trap
By Dr. Les Carter

Anger breeds toxicity. And if you are in a relationship with a toxic person, you know how destructive anger can be. In The Anger Trap, Dr. Les Carter helps bring clarity to what’s behind a person’s anger and how to resolve it. Whether you are in a relationship with an angry toxic person, or perhaps you are the one who is struggling with anger, this is an invaluable resource.

I hope you have found this list helpful. Is there one book that grabs your attention? Let me know in the comments.

Want more? Grab my FREE Toxic People Survival Guide to learn how to identify and deal with toxic people.

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More goodies for you!

Toxic People Survival Guide

As you become more confident in setting boundaries with difficult people, you will begin to see your life filled with more peace, regardless of the situations or people that you encounter.
It’s like a cheat sheet to detoxify your life!

Biblical Boundaries

In the Biblical Boundaries with Toxic Family Course, Kris’ will teach you the why and the HOW and equip you with everything you need to set appropriate, lasting biblical boundaries with toxic family.

Toxic Thought Assessment

Your thoughts impact so much of your life – learn how toxic your thoughts are and how you can overcome the toxic thoughts holding you back from living the life God most wants for you. Take this assessment to determine how toxic your thoughts are and begin on your journey to renewal.