DISPLACING DISPLACEMENT

Let’s start out by defining displacement, since I have not taught Psychology for 52 years. Here is what Simple Psychology says, “In psychology, displacement is an unconscious defense mechanism where unwanted feelings or impulses are redirected from a threatening or inappropriate target to a less threatening one. For example, someone angry at their boss might yell at their spouse instead. It helps reduce anxiety but can lead to problems in other relationships.”

All of us, without knowing what we are doing, have automatically, seemingly like a reflex reaction, resorted to using displacement as described above. Sure, we reduced or anxiety, buy at the same time we aggravated someone else. Yes, displacement relieved our stress, but we often left someone else stressed out by our words, actions, or even body language that sent the wrong message. We need to displace displacement.

Why so? Displacement needs to be displeased so that we will not damage our Christian witness, discourage someone who needs Jesus, damage someone’s peaceful state, or even deter someone from believing our testimony that we have been born again. We need to consciously be aware of this unconscious defense mechanism called displacement. We must be skilled in displacing displacement. Can the scriptures help us? Of course!” Here is some help from the inspired, profitable word of God. (Note: All today’s scriptures come from the Easy-to-Read Bible.)

“Understand this, my Christian friends: We must all be careful to listen. We should not be too quick to speak. We should not get angry quickly.” (James 1:19)

“So do the good things for other people that you would want them to do for you. That is true in everything you do. That is what God’s Law, and the messages of God’s prophets teach us.” (Matthew 7:12)

“You might think you are a very religious person. But if your tongue is out of control, you are fooling yourself. Your careless talk makes your offerings to God worthless.” (James 1:26)

“Never be bitter, angry, or mad. Never shout angrily or say things to hurt others. Never do anything evil.” (Ephesians 4:31) 

“Be kind and loving to each other.” Ephesians 4:32a)

“Do not quarrel with other people if they have done nothing to hurt you.” (Proverbs 3:30a) 

“There is a time to say nothing. There is a time to speak.” (Ecclesiastes 3:7b)

“If you have any kind of trouble in your mind, give it to God. God has promised to take care of you.” (I Peter 5:7)

Of course, pray always my friend, especially when you know you are filled with anxiety or stress, troubled or torn apart. Have a great day! Be blessed!

“Do not worry about anything. Instead, pray to God about everything. Ask him to help you with the things that you need. And thank him for his help.” (Philippians 4:6 Easy-to-Read Bible)

Committed to the climb,

Mark L. King