Being bullied can be tough, but the Bible offers wisdom and comfort for those who face it. It reminds us of God’s love, justice, and strength to overcome. Today, let’s explore how Scripture guides us in responding to bullying with faith and courage.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Respecting Your Child
What Does The Bible Say About Being Bullied
Psalm 35:1-3
“Contend, Lord, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me. Take up shield and armor; arise and come to my aid. Brandish spear and javelin against those who pursue me. Say to me, ‘I am your salvation.'”
This verse reflects the cry of someone who is being bullied and seeking God’s help. It acknowledges that there are people who are contending and fighting against them, and it asks God to fight on their behalf. It shows the recognition that only God can truly save and protect them from their bullies.
When faced with bullying, this verse encourages us to turn to God for help and to trust in His power to deliver us. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles and that God can intervene on our behalf.
Isaiah 54:17
“‘No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me,’ declares the Lord.”
This verse assures those who are being bullied that no weapon or accusation against them will ultimately succeed. It declares that God will be their defense and their vindication. It provides comfort and hope, reminding them that their identity as servants of the Lord is what truly matters.
In the face of bullying, this verse reminds us to trust in God’s protection and not be swayed by the words and actions of our bullies. It assures us that God will bring justice and vindication in His timing.
Matthew 5:10-12
“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
This verse reminds those who are being bullied for their faith that they are blessed and that the kingdom of heaven belongs to them. It acknowledges the reality of insults and false accusations but encourages them to find joy and gladness in the midst of persecution. It also draws a parallel to the prophets who faced similar mistreatment.
When facing bullying for our faith, this verse teaches us to have a mindset shift. Instead of being discouraged, we are called to see it as an opportunity to grow in our faith and to remember that our ultimate reward is in heaven.
Proverbs 14:21
“Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.”
This verse addresses the issue of bullying by highlighting the importance of treating others with kindness and generosity. It emphasizes that despising one’s neighbor is a sinful act, while blessing comes to those who are generous to the poor.
In the face of bullying, this verse reminds us to treat others with kindness and to avoid despising or mistreating them. It encourages us to be compassionate and generous, knowing that our actions have an impact on those around us.
Proverbs 17:5
“Whoever mocks the poor insults his Maker; he who is glad at calamity will not go unpunished.”
This verse highlights the seriousness of mocking and mistreating others, particularly those who are less fortunate. It points out that insulting the poor is an insult to God Himself, and those who take joy in the misfortune of others will face consequences.
When facing bullying, this verse reminds us to be mindful of our words and actions towards others. It urges us to treat everyone with respect and dignity, regardless of their circumstances, and warns us of the consequences of finding pleasure in the suffering of others.
Romans 12:19-21
“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 verse addresses the desire for revenge when faced with bullying. It encourages believers to refrain from seeking revenge themselves and to instead trust in God’s justice. It calls for a counterintuitive response of kindness towards our enemies, emphasizing that by doing so, we overcome evil with good.
In the face of bullying, this verse challenges us to rise above the temptation to retaliate and instead respond with love and compassion. It reminds us that showing kindness to our bullies may have a transformative effect and allows God to work in the situation.
1 Peter 4:12-14
“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.”
This verse acknowledges the reality of persecution and suffering for the sake of Christ. It encourages believers to rejoice in their participation in Christ’s sufferings, knowing that they will also share in the glory that will be revealed. It declares that those insulted for the name of Christ are blessed, as the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon them.
When being bullied because of our faith, this verse reminds us to find strength and encouragement in our identification with Christ. It assures us that God’s Spirit is with us and that our suffering is not in vain.
Psalm 27:10
“Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.”
This verse acknowledges the pain of being abandoned or rejected by loved ones. But it reassures that even in such circumstances, the Lord will never forsake or abandon us.
In the face of bullying, this verse provides comfort and assurance that we are not alone. It reminds us that God is always there to receive us and provide us with the love and acceptance that we may not find from others.
Proverbs 24:29
“Do not say, ‘I will do to others as they have done to me; I will pay them back for what they have done.'”
This verse warns against the desire for revenge and the mindset of repaying others for their actions. It encourages a different approach, one that does not seek to retaliate.
When facing bullying, this verse challenges us to rise above the temptation for revenge and to instead choose forgiveness and love. It reminds us to break the cycle of harm and to respond in a way that is guided by God’s wisdom and grace.
Proverbs 25:21-22
“If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.”
This verse advises a generous and compassionate response towards our enemies. It encourages us to provide for their needs, even when they have treated us poorly. It suggests that such acts of kindness may have a convicting effect on our enemies and that we will be rewarded by the Lord.
When dealing with bullying, this verse challenges us to go beyond merely tolerating our enemies and instead extend love and care towards them. It reminds us of the power of kindness to transform relationships and bring about reconciliation.
Matthew 5:44-45
“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.”
This verse commands believers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them. It reminds us that by doing so, we demonstrate our identity as children of God, who shows kindness and grace to both the righteous and the unrighteous.
When facing bullying, this verse challenges us to respond with love and prayer instead of hatred or anger. It calls us to imitate our Heavenly Father and to trust in His ability to bring about transformation and healing.
Psalm 56:3-4
“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise— in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”
This verse expresses the psalmist’s reliance on God in times of fear and distress. It proclaims that when we trust in God and praise Him, we need not fear the actions of mere mortals.
In the face of bullying, this verse reminds us to place our trust in God and find comfort in His presence. It reassures us that no matter what others may do, God is ultimately in control and will protect us.
2 Timothy 1:7
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”
This verse acknowledges the power and strength that believers have through the Holy Spirit. It affirms that fear and timidity are not from God, but rather He empowers us with love and self-discipline.
When confronted with bullying, this verse reminds us that we have been given the power of the Holy Spirit to face challenges with courage and love. It encourages us to lean on God’s strength and exhibit self-control in the midst of adversity.
Psalm 143:9
“Rescue me from my enemies, Lord, for I hide myself in you.”
This verse is a plea for God’s deliverance from enemies. It acknowledges that the psalmist finds refuge in God and relies on Him for protection.
When experiencing bullying, this verse reminds us to seek God’s help and protection. It reassures us that we can find safety and security in Him, even when faced with threats from others.
Proverbs 1:7
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of fearing the Lord and seeking wisdom and instruction. It contrasts the wise, who fear and honor God, with fools who reject wisdom.
When facing bullying, this verse reminds us to seek wisdom from God and to rely on His guidance in dealing with difficult situations. It challenges us to prioritize the fear of the Lord over the opinions and actions of bullies.
Proverbs 21:21
“Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity, and honor.”
This verse highlights the benefits of pursuing righteousness and love. It promises that those who prioritize these qualities will find life, prosperity, and honor.
When confronted with bullying, this verse encourages us to continue living with righteousness and love. It assures us that, in the end, our choices to do what is right and to show love to others will lead to a fulfilling and honorable life.
Galatians 6:9
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
This verse urges believers to persevere in doing good and to not grow weary. It gives the assurance that, in due time, they will reap the rewards if they don’t give up.
When dealing with bullying, this verse reminds us to remain steadfast in doing what is right and not lose heart. It encourages us to trust in God’s timing and to believe that our acts of kindness and righteousness will bear fruit in the end.
Proverbs 22:24-25
“Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.”
This verse offers guidance on choosing our companions wisely. It warns against forming relationships with people who have a quick temper, as their negative influence can lead to entanglement.
When faced with bullying, this verse reminds us to be discerning in our relationships and to avoid aligning ourselves with those who may encourage or participate in bullying behaviors. It encourages us to surround ourselves with positive influences.
Proverbs 29:25
“Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.”
This verse warns against the trap of fearing what others think or do. It contrasts this with the safety that comes from trusting in the Lord.
When dealing with bullying, this verse reminds us to place our trust in God’s protection instead of fearing the opinions or actions of others. It encourages us to seek our safety and security in Him.
Psalm 55:22
“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”
This verse encourages believers to cast their burdens and cares upon the Lord, knowing that He will sustain them. It assures that the righteous will not be shaken.
When facing bullying, this verse reminds us to bring our concerns to God, trusting that He will provide the strength and support needed. It assures us that, as followers of Christ, we can stand firm in the face of adversity.
Proverbs 16:7
“When the LORD takes pleasure in anyone’s way, he causes their enemies to make peace with them.”
This verse highlights the power of God to bring about reconciliation and peace between individuals. It suggests that when the Lord delights in someone, He can influence their enemies to make peace.
When dealing with bullying, this verse encourages us to strive to live in a way that pleases the Lord. It reminds us that God can work in the hearts of our bullies, bringing about a change of attitude and fostering peace.
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
This verse exhorts believers not to be anxious but rather to bring their concerns to God through prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving. It promises that the peace of God, beyond human comprehension, will guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
When faced with bullying, this verse reminds us to trust in God’s peace and to bring our anxieties before Him. It assures us that His peace will protect and guide us amidst difficult circumstances.