GASLIGHTING

“In 2022 “gaslighting” was chosen as Merriam-Webster Dictionary’s word of the year. Interest in “gaslighting,” which the dictionary defines as “psychological manipulation over an extended period of time that causes the victim to question the validity of their own thoughts,” is at an all-time high. The term was searched on Merriam-Webster’s website 1,740% more than in the previous year. The sustained high volume of queries earned “gaslighting” its word of the year status, as the selection process is based solely on data, according to the brand.” (Morning Brew)

“Gaslighting is a colloquialism, loosely defined as manipulating someone so as to make them question their own reality. The term may also be used to describe a person (a “gaslighter”) who presents a false narrative to another group or person, thereby leading them to doubt their perceptions and become misled, disoriented or distressed. Often this is for the gaslighter’s own benefit. Normally this dynamic is possible only when the audience is vulnerable, such as in unequal power relationships, or fearful of the losses associated with challenging the false narrative.” (Wikipedia)

It seems much of our everyday life has been gassed pretty well the last few years. There have been many areas of gassing such as social media, news channels, movies, TV, political constructs, books, schools, churches, newspapers, talk shows… I am trying to think of some place in which we haven’t been gassed. Watch out for abusers and being susceptible to being abused by gaslighters. Maybe buy a gas mask.

“And many will turn away from me and betray and hate each other. And many false prophets will appear and will deceive many people. Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold.  But the one who endures to the end will be saved.  And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it; and then the end will come.” Jesus