The Bible condemns all forms of abuse and calls for respect and care in relationships. It shows that hurting others goes against God’s love and provides guidance for those in harmful situations. Discover how Scripture supports dignity and justice, offering hope to those who suffer.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Working Out
What Does The Bible Say About Abuse
Exodus 20:13
“You shall not murder.”
This verse emphasizes the sanctity of human life and condemns any form of violence or abuse, including physical abuse.
Abuse goes against God’s commandment to love and respect one another. It is our responsibility to protect and care for one another, treating each other with kindness and dignity.
Psalms 10:17-18
“You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed, so that mere earthly mortals will never again strike terror.”
In this verse, we see God as the protector and defender of the oppressed and afflicted. He is attentive to their cries and seeks justice on their behalf. God has a deep compassion for those who have suffered from abuse.
As His followers, we are called to reflect His character and stand against all forms of abuse, advocating for the oppressed and seeking justice for those who have been mistreated.
Proverbs 14:21
“Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.”
This verse teaches us the value of showing kindness and compassion to others. It condemns any form of mistreatment or abuse towards our neighbors, reminding us to treat them with respect and love.
To abuse someone is to despise them, and this is seen as a sin in the eyes of God. Instead, we are called to be generous and compassionate towards those in need and to treat them with the dignity they deserve.
Matthew 5:43-44
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Jesus challenges our natural tendency to seek revenge or mistreat those who have hurt us. He calls us to a higher standard of love and forgiveness, even towards our abusers.
While this verse may not directly address abuse, it teaches us the importance of showing love and kindness to all people, even those who have caused us harm. This does not mean condoning or enabling abuse, but rather seeking healing and restoration through the power of love.
Romans 12:17-21
“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord. On the contrary: ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
This passage reminds us of the importance of responding to abuse or mistreatment with love and goodness. Instead of seeking revenge, we are encouraged to live at peace, leaving justice in God’s hands.
While it may be difficult to show kindness to those who have abused us, this verse teaches us that responding with goodness can have a transformative effect, potentially bringing about repentance and change in the abuser.
1 Corinthians 16:14
“Let all that you do be done in love.”
This simple yet profound verse reminds us of the central importance of love in our actions and interactions. Love should guide our behavior towards others, protecting them from abuse and treating them with respect and kindness.
Abuse is incompatible with genuine love. Therefore, as Christians, we are called to demonstrate love in all aspects of our lives, promoting a culture of respect and care for one another.
1 Peter 3:8-9
“Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”
This verse highlights the importance of being united in love and compassion as believers. It encourages us to respond to evil and abuse with blessings, rather than perpetuating a cycle of harm.
By choosing not to repay evil with evil but instead offering blessings, we not only testify to the transformative power of God’s love but also create opportunities for healing and restoration.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”
These verses highlight the qualities that should be evident in the lives of Christians, through the work of the Holy Spirit. Abuse is contrary to the fruits of the Spirit, as it counters love, kindness, gentleness, and self-control.
As believers, we are called to cultivate these traits in our own lives and to promote them in our relationships with others, creating an environment that is resistant to abuse and filled with God’s love and grace.
Colossians 3:12-14
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues, put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
These verses instruct believers to clothe themselves with virtues such as compassion, kindness, and gentleness. Abuse is a direct contradiction to these Christlike qualities.
Forgiveness is also emphasized in this passage, reminding us of God’s forgiveness towards us. This does not mean tolerating ongoing abuse but rather seeking healing and restoration through forgiveness while holding abusers accountable to change their behavior.
Ephesians 4:31-32
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger, brawling, and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
This verse urges believers to rid themselves of harmful emotions and actions, including anger and malice. Instead, we are to show kindness, compassion, and forgiveness to one another.
Abuse often stems from bitterness, rage, and other negative emotions. Therefore, by following this instruction, we can prevent the cycle of abuse and foster an atmosphere of healing and restoration.
Isaiah 1:17
“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.”
In this verse, we are called to seek justice and defend the oppressed. This includes standing against abuse and advocating for those who have been mistreated.
As Christians, it is our responsibility to promote justice and protect the vulnerable, ensuring that they receive the support and care they need. We are to be voices for the voiceless and agents of change in a world that is often plagued by abuse and injustice.
Proverbs 22:22-23
“Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court, for the Lord will take up their case and will exact life for life.”
This verse warns against the mistreatment and exploitation of the vulnerable. It shows that God takes the side of the oppressed and promises to bring justice to their situations.
Abuse is a form of exploitation and mistreatment, going against the heart of God. As believers, we are called to stand against such behavior and to seek justice for those who have been abused.
Isaiah 40:11
“He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.”
This verse paints a beautiful picture of God’s love and care for His people. It reminds us that God is like a compassionate shepherd, protecting and guiding His flock.
In the face of abuse, it is comforting to know that God sees our pain and offers us comfort and healing. He is a refuge for the abused, providing gentle guidance and loving care.
Psalm 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
This verse assures us that God is near to those who are hurting and brokenhearted. He sees the pain of those who have suffered abuse and is ready to bring healing and restoration.
It is important for survivors of abuse to know that they are not alone. God is with them, offering comfort and hope. As His followers, we should also be a source of support and care for those who are hurting.
2 Samuel 22:2-3
“The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge, and my savior—from violent people you save me.”
In this passage, David expresses his trust and dependence on God as his protector and deliverer. He acknowledges God as his stronghold and refuge from violent people.
For those facing abuse, this verse provides a message of hope and assurance. God is our ultimate source of strength and protection. He is faithful to save and deliver us from harm.
Psalm 91:4
“He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings, you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.”
This verse paints a beautiful image of God’s protective care. He is likened to a bird covering its young with its wings, providing shelter and safety.
In the face of abuse, God offers His refuge and faithfulness. He promises to shield and protect those who seek refuge in Him. We can find comfort and security under the shelter of His wings.
Psalm 147:3
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
God is the ultimate healer, capable of restoring broken hearts and bringing wholeness to those who have been wounded.
Abuse leaves deep emotional and psychological wounds, but God offers healing and restoration. He is able to mend what is broken and bring hope to the hurting.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
God’s plans for His children are ones of hope, prosperity, and a future filled with His goodness. He does not desire harm for His people but seeks their well-being and flourishing.
Abuse is not a part of God’s plan. As survivors of abuse, it is important to hold onto the hope that God has for our lives, trusting in His promise to bring us into a future filled with His blessings.
Psalm 9:9
“The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.”
God is a source of refuge and strength for those who are oppressed. In times of trouble and distress, He offers His protection and support.
For those facing abuse, God is a safe haven, a place of solace and security. Turning to Him, we can find comfort and strength in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Psalm 34:17-18
“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
These verses assure us that God hears the cries of the righteous and delivers them from their troubles. He is present with the brokenhearted, offering salvation and healing.
In the face of abuse, we can find comfort in knowing that God is attentive to our cries. He is actively working to bring deliverance and restoration, bringing comfort to the crushed in spirit.
Psalm 147:6
“The Lord sustains the humble but casts the wicked to the ground.”
God upholds and sustains the humble, but He brings low the wicked. Those who perpetrate abuse will ultimately face His judgment.
While survivors of abuse may feel powerless, they can find strength and security in God’s justice. He will bring down the wicked and hold them accountable for their actions.
Proverbs 21:15
“When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers.”
Justice is a source of joy for the righteous, but it instills fear in those who commit evil acts. This verse highlights the importance of seeking justice for those who have been abused.
As believers, we are called to advocate for justice, standing against abuse and supporting those who have been mistreated. Bringing perpetrators to justice is not only necessary for healing but also serves as a deterrent to future acts of abuse.