Is There a Cure for Narcissism?

By Donna L. Lewis

VIDEO STUDY GUIDE: “Is There a Cure for Narcissism?”

James 4 Survey

1. Read James Chapter 4 in full. Begin first with a scan of the chapter, highlighting words, phrases and verses that stand out to you.
2. Spend a moment in quiet reflection with the Lord. Seek the guidance and instruction of the Holy Spirit.
3. Get a notepad or journal. Read through James 4 again, slowly. Take notes and write down questions as they come to you. What is standing out? Write it down.
4. How does this chapter relate to narcissistic behavior?
5. What remedy do you see James prescribing for narcissistic behavior?

Going Deep: Conflicts & Quarrels

1. James 1:1 TPT, “What is the cause of your conflicts and quarrels with each other?” Think about this question. Replay a quarrel or conflict from your own life experience. What do you see as the root of the conflict?
2. James 1: 1 & 2 TPT, “Doesn’t the battle begin inside of you as you fight to have your own way and fulfill your own desires? You jealously want what others have so you begin to see yourself as better than others. You scheme with envy and harm others to selfishly obtain what you crave.” What personal emotions or feelings did the conflict/quarrel stir-up?
3. What were you protecting during the conflict/quarrel?
4. Is this a re-occurring theme in your relationship(s)?

Going Deep: Friendship with The World

1. James 4:3 TPT, “And if you ask, you won’t receive it for you’re asking with corrupt motives, seeking only to fulfill your own selfish desires.” Prayerfully consider this scripture. How does it apply to you personally? Allow the Holy Spirit to talk it through with you. Is He bringing anything specific to mind?
2. Wrong motives can be very subtle and sneaky! They often masquerade as something noble or even spiritual. Allow the mirror of God’s Word and the teacher of the Holy Spirit to draw you deep and unveil the secret places of your heart. There is such wonderous healing available to you today!
3. James 4:4 TPT, “You have become spiritual adulterers who are having an affair, an unholy relationship with the world. Don’t you know that flirting with the world’s values places you at odds with God?” Make a quick list of ways you’ve flirted with the world. Allow yourself no room to over-think or rationalize. Just write down what comes to mind immediately.
4. Read the list out loud, if possible. Does it surprise you? Are they areas you have obtained victory over or areas you still battle?
5. Now read Romans 6:12-16. How does this relate to James 4:4?

Going Deep: Godly Sorrow

1. Reflect on the following passages of scripture. I encourage you to read them in more than one translation to get a full perspective. Free apps like Bible Gateway, YouVersion and Blue Letter Bible are great for this! Psalms 38:18, Ecclesiastes 7:3-5, 2 Corinthians 7:9-11
2. Write your own definition of “Godly Sorrow”.
3. What does it mean to mourn over your sin?
4. How is feeling sorrow different from condemnation? How is feeling shame different from being shamed?
5. How will Godly sorrow deepen your compassion for others?
6. How will Godly sorrow deepen your love relationship with God?
7. Do you see Godly sorrow as a cure for narcissism? Why or why not?

James 4: Summary

Read through James 4 one more time then write a summary of your experience with this precious chapter of God’s word. Some questions to consider:

1. How has it impacted your perspective on interpersonal relationships?
2. How has it transformed your understanding of Godly Sorrow as it relates to authentic repentance?
3. How has it deepened your understanding of God?
4. How will it influence your worship of God?

Blessings dear and precious friend. Until next time!

Author, Donna L Lewis

Donna makes her home in the mountains of Tennessee with her husband, artist, Jade Lewis. She is an author, influencer, music mentor, singer, songwriter and avid motorcyclist.

Author, Toxic to Transformed, 100 Words of Life to Renew the Mind,

A verbal and emotional abuse recovery devotional available now on Amazon

Director, Breathe Life Ministries, a place to experience worship and words of life.

http://www.breathlifeministries.com

Host of “Monday Morning Live”, a Facebook Live Cast