The Martyr Complex in The Church
A “Martyr Complex” is a destructive pattern of behavior within The Church.
It happens when a person habitually seeks out ways to press themselves to the point of gaining attention or favor from the leader.
They see their labor as a way to feel “good” about themselves. Often to the detriment of all their other relationships.
In many, they all bring up their childhood memories. They have tried to measure up to be valuable to God, and Satan tries his best to keep them feeling rejected, and with self-pity, and their pride will not let them ask for help.
Often, these are like the woman who wanted the crumbs from the master’s table. (Matthew 15:27)
God has a special place for the widows and the orphans. Yet they struggle in knowing how much they are loved by God.
Deep down they do not feel loved as the selfless kind of love. They see themselves as unlovable.
Self-esteem has a lot of weight on those who suffer from a Martyr Complex. The worse we feel about ourselves, the more we cover up.
Being a self-imposed martyr also removes the need to take responsibility for our lives, by blaming others for the failure and disappointments in their lives.
When we or others have signs of low self-esteem, it is hard receiving love or affection and often we have a poor body image, judgmentalism, moodiness, etc.
Maybe they were abused as a child emotionally, mentally, physically, and continue to react to authority figures in a negative way.
In some loveless relationships, it could be abusive, and they totally disregard their own health by staying in the relationship.
They refuse to accept responsibility for the decisions and choices that have caused them pain or suffering.
Often, they are out to make themselves righteous or make themselves out to be the one who is always the caregiver.
They blame the other person for the oppression and bondage. They are always seeking to plead their innocence and to reassure themselves.
Often when a Martyr Complex is spotted, and their coping mechanisms are revealed, they always have to share the information that something is wrong, so that the blame is put on another.
They look for the person they want to inform; usually it’s leadership or someone that has authority so that they will not see their motive, but most times they want to impress so they will push their agenda of mistreatment or suffering.
What I have witnessed is that they are cynical, paranoid, and suspicious. The obsession of their mind is what is right.
This person will emotionally manipulate situations to gain control. These types of people will do anything to make themselves out to be the one that suffers.
A person who does things for the approval of man will become cynical in their hearts and attitudes.
Martyrs never take the initiative to solve problems, they love being known for all the efforts they do and seek recognition and attention for the drama they create.
A person could have a relationship that causes emotional damage, but they will not do what needs to be done for their own health.
They want control and will manipulate to get their own way. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft and stubbornness is as idolatry.
Jezebel in The Bible was a good example of behavior. Jezebel, a follower of Baal, promises to kill the prophet Elijah, who flees when hearing her plan.
She also manipulated many powerful men around her in a story about land ownership, leading to the death of several men.
In the past, I have often asked if they have ever dabbled in the occult and played with tarot cards, Ouija board, or read or been involved in any type of negative or false spiritual event.
These things can open a person up to demonic influence. (Study 1 & 2 Kings)
“And she said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the little dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table.”” Matthew 15:27
In HIS Grace and Mercy,
~ Sherry Edwards Mackey
Sherry Edwards Mackey
Please Note: Publications and or prophecy taken from this may be used to promote the gospel of Jesus Christ. The articles taken must be used according to it’s entirety with credits. Thank you kindly!
So how does a person deal with these kind of people, when your parent appears to be one? This has taken me soooo by surprise! Been praying for answers.
赞