When Someone Toxic Keeps Trying to Bait You Into Battles

“Do not answer a fool according to his folly, lest you also be like him.”

— Proverbs 26:4

Sometimes the hardest part of recovery isn’t the substances, the old habits, or even the cravings. It’s people — especially the toxic ones who seem determined to pull you back into the pit you’re climbing out of.

These people might use manipulation, guilt, half-truths, or outright rage to draw you into arguments. They know what buttons to push — because they installed them. And now, every ignored text, every boundary you set, every "no" you give becomes a new battleground.

But you don’t have to fight.

God is not calling you to win every argument — He’s calling you to walk in wisdom and peace. The enemy wants to derail your healing by stirring up strife. If he can get you to react instead of responding in the Spirit, he knows you'll waste precious emotional energy. You might even feel tempted to use again, lash out, or fall into despair.

The Bible says, “Do not answer a fool according to his folly.” Not everyone deserves your explanation. Not every insult needs an answer. Sometimes, silence is strength. Other times, a simple boundary is all that’s needed — without the need to justify it.

Christ didn’t engage with every accuser. He didn’t waste words on those trying to trap Him. He knew His mission. And you must know yours: Freedom, peace, and healing in Christ.

You don’t have to prove anything. You don’t have to attend every argument you’re invited to. Walk away with your peace intact and your purpose unshaken.

Scriptures for Meditation

• Proverbs 26:4 – “Do not answer a fool according to his folly, lest you also be like him.”

• Romans 12:18 – “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”

• Matthew 7:6 – “Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine...”

• 2 Timothy 2:23-24 – “But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all…”

Introspective Questions

1. Who in your life tries to bait you into emotional battles?

2. What’s your usual response?

3. What has that response cost you?

4. How can you respond differently, with God's wisdom and peace?

5. Is there a boundary God is calling you to set or enforce more firmly?

Goal for the Day

Today, choose to walk away from any battle God never called you to fight. Ask for strength to hold your peace. Don’t engage where God has told you to disengage.

Closing Prayer

Abba Father, I ask for Your wisdom, understanding, and discernment today. Help me recognize when someone is trying to pull me into unnecessary conflict. Give me strength to walk away when needed and wisdom to speak only when You lead me to. Let my heart stay soft, but my boundaries remain firm. I’m not who I used to be, and I won’t return to old patterns. I choose peace, I choose growth, and I choose You. In Jesus’ name, amen.