Stay Out of the Gaslight

        Have you ever been gaslighted? Perhaps you have been, but are unfamiliar with the term.

        The term “gaslighting” comes from the name of a 1938 play and 1944 film, “Gaslight,” in which a husband manipulates his wife into thinking she has a mental illness.

        Gaslighting is one of the tactics used to undermine our faith and bring confusion. Gaslighting thrives on instilling fear and insecurity.

        Gaslighting attempts to erode our confidence, causing us to doubt our accomplishments and progress. Gaslighting is seeking to confuse and manipulate believers. Some Scriptural principles can help us overcome a gaslighter’s attempts to manipulate us.

        Know what God thinks of a gaslighter. 

        “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy” (Proverbs 12:22).

        Gaslighters often employ deceit and lies to twist the truth and confuse their victims. “An honest witness does not deceive, but a false witness pours out lies” (Proverbs 14:5).

        Guard your own emotions. A person seeking attention is a candidate for being gaslighted. 

        “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ” (Galatians 1:10).

        In the midst of gaslighting, it is crucial to guard your mind and focus on thoughts that are true, noble, and pure.

        Gaslighting attempts to diminish your confidence and self-worth, but the Spirit of God empowers us with courage, love, and self-discipline.

        Gaslighters often drop “love bombs” (flattery) to gain a person’s confidence in order to build their confidence so the gaslight will be readily accepted. A love bomb is an undue praise and confidence booster. Don’t be a victim of flattery.

        To guard yourself against gaslighting, know who you are. To know who you are, get a good understanding of Whose you are.  

        “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8).