Church: Why I Hate Statistics...and Manipulation

Have you even been listening to a speaker and they start spitting out statistics like a copier produces copies?
It is disconcerting when you are listening to someone you trust and they start talking in statistics.   To me, that makes me suspicious of whatever it is they are trying to convey. Generally speaking, people start with the statistics to make their viewpoint look credible. I am a bit different than most churchgoers, but you probably already knew that.
I took a statistics class many years ago. Most of what I learned I have forgotten. One thing has stayed with me throughout the years. Our class was told that one can take any set of statistics and make them support your supposition. Isn't that very interesting. Statistics can be manipulated, just as they can be used to manipulate people. I understand there are reputable firms that do studies and are careful to use statistics wisely. However, when people are trying to influence others, they tend to utilize the tools they have or think they have.
It seems to me that the very ones who are suppose to protect their congregations are instead using manipulation. Unfortunately this happens a lot in the church.   I think most everyone knows when they are being manipulated.   There are times when we don't realize what is happening until it's too late.  Christians must be discerning without being suspicious.  This is something that we can pray and ask God to give us.  He promises that He will not withhold any good thing from us.
I had a situation recently, when I didn't realize what was happening until after the fact.  This person literally attacked, accusing me of something untrue.   Others that were there told me that they know that what the other person said was not true.  Yet I was troubled inside.  It was some time later I realized that the person foisted off on me her opinion.  She did it in such a way, that I knew I did not do what I was accused of, yet I had this huge need to bring clarity to all around me.   This is one way that people can manipulate you. 
Another happened one day when I got drawn into another persons drama.  As a result, I lost time that I couldn't afford to lose.
My suggestion is to ask God for protection and discernment.   And do not believe every statistic you hear.