Dealing with Difficult People

Jesus dealt with many difficult people.  There are 3 things you can put into practice to help you to keep your witness when you encounter a difficult person in your life.

1)  Know the person.  (I call this one "Consider your audience")
Jesus always knew who he was dealing with.  he was able to figure out the thoughts and intents of those trying to trick him, undermine him and kill him.  John 2:24 says Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all men"  When you are dealing with a difficult person, you can recognize the ways the person typically acts and expect more of the same from them.  For example, an angry person will get angry, a sensitive person will probably take your words the wrong way (so choose them wisely), a lazy person won't want to work, and abusive person will abuse, a cheater will cheat.  Expect these things so you aren't surprised and thrown off track.

2) Detach from Hooks.  (I refer to this one as "Hook, Line & Sinker")
You've heard the term falling for something hook, line and sinker?  Well that's sort of what this is.  Difficult people will try to get you to bite on their "hooks" so they can reel you in.  They want to hook you into giving into their demands and taking over their responsibilities.  They use anger, blame, guilt, threats and moods to manipulate you.  You need to recognize these hoods and choose not to be pulled  into the game.  You do this by separating yourself emotionally and mentally (and even physically sometimes) from the person's actions.  Jesus reminded us to be on guard against the schemes of men in Matthew 10:17.

3)  Choose your response (Think before you speak)
Instead of reacting, you choose your response.  Jesus was manipulated, despised, taunted, tricked and abused, but he was always thoughtfully in control of his reactions.  he had boundaries and protected himself, until it was the appointed time for him to die and even then he let himself be crucified.  Regardless of what is done to you, you are responsible for choosing your reaction.  It is your responsibility to set boundaries, say no, act respectfully, speak the truth, confront sin, refuse to enable and love your enemies.  Matthew 5:38-42

References:
Godly Woman Daily