When to Walk Away Study Guide: Finding Freedom from Toxic People

Jesus walked away from toxic people, and you should too. 

In the Gospels, we read that when Jesus spoke a hard truth, sometimes the other person chose to walk away. Other times, the person asked Jesus to leave–and he complied. There were also times when people begged Jesus to stay, but he walked away so he could remain completely focused on the mission God had for him.  

As Christians, we often feel the guilt and responsibility of meeting the needs of unhealthy people in our lives. Instead of attempting the impossible task of mollifying toxic people, it's time we dedicate our energy to the only worthwhile effort: completing the work God has given us by investing in reliable people.   

Drawing from years serving as a pastor, Gary Thomas looks at biblical examples from the lives of Jesus, Paul, and Nehemiah to give you insightful, biblical takeaways that you can apply right away. You'll discover how to: 

• Learn the difference between difficult people and toxic people 
• Find refuge in God when you feel under attack 
• Discern when to walk away from a toxic situation 
• Keep a tender heart even in unhealthy relationships 
• Strengthen your defense and set healthy boundaries 
• Grow your inner strength and invest in reliable people 

We can't let others steal our joy or our mission. It's time to follow Jesus’ example to walk away from toxic people and walk toward healthy relationships. And as we do, it frees us to focus completely on the purpose that God has established for our lives.  

The When to Walk Away Study Guide includes teaching notes, discussion questions, Bible exploration, and personal study and reflection materials for in-between sessions.  

Sessions include: 

1. Follow Jesus’ Example 
2. Recognize Toxic People 
3. Build a Good Offense 
4. Create a Good Defense 
5. Speak the Truth 
6. Align with Christ  

Designed for use with the When to Walk Away Video Study available on DVD or streaming video, sold separately.