I ran across an interesting blog article (that is noted in my sidebar). There is a 5-part series called, "The Dark Side of Spiritual Abuse" at The Barnabas Blog written by Philip Harrelson.
Today I read Part 4 a number of times. So much of it spoke out to me from my own personal experience or the experiences that others have shared with me.
The blog author mentions the book, Overcoming the Dark Side of Leadership, by Gary McIntosh and Samuel D. Rima, and from the book lists five types of leadership styles which can lead towards spiritual abuse:
- compulsive leader
- narcissistic leader
- paranoid leader
- co-dependent leader
- passive-aggressive leader
Reading through the examples of the characteristics was quite shocking. I kept finding myself saying, "wow, that's it!" over and over again.
Thank you so much for posting this! I just read the part 3, fits like a glove! I am chilled at the correlation and similarity of what I, my family and those I met encountered while at BGB! I am so thankful for your courage to start this blog and give me something tangible to help me sort out what has happened to me. It has been a very hard recovery, but to God be the glory great things He has done, He will never leave nor abandon His children. Much love and prayers to you through this trial, may God meet your every need. Love Meaghan
ReplyDeleteI know exactly that "chilled" feeling. One day I will tell my story about how the process of uncovering the truth began for me. People who have gone through spiritual abuse share many experiences. It's sad to know that spiritual abuse exists, but comforting to know that we are not alone and our journey does not have to end there. We can have Victory in Jesus despite the bumps in the road.
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