Molestation is a heartbreaking and serious issue, and the Bible speaks clearly about the value of every individual and the call to protect the vulnerable. Let’s explore what Scripture says about abuse, justice, and God’s heart for those who have been hurt.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Seeking Counseling
What Does The Bible Say About Molestation
Genesis 39:12
“She caught him by his garment, saying, Lie with me: and he left his garment in her hand, and fled, and got him out.”
This verse tells the story of Joseph, who was approached by Potiphar’s wife to engage in an act of molestation. However, Joseph demonstrates great integrity and a commitment to his moral values by fleeing from the situation. It teaches us the importance of resisting temptation and sticking to what is right, even in the face of difficult circumstances.
Leviticus 20:17
“And if a man shall take his sister, his father’s daughter, or his mother’s daughter, and see her nakedness, and she see his nakedness; it is a wicked thing; and they shall be cut off in the sight of their people: he hath uncovered his sister’s nakedness; he shall bear his iniquity.”
This verse emphasizes the seriousness of any form of incestuous behavior, including molestation within the family. It highlights the fact that such actions have severe consequences and are considered wicked in the eyes of God. It serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting boundaries and maintaining healthy relationships within our families.
Deuteronomy 22:25-27
“But if a man finds a betrothed young woman in the countryside, and the man forces her and lies with her, then only the man who lay with her shall die. But you shall do nothing to the young woman; there is in the young woman no sin against death, for just as when a man rises against his neighbor and kills him, even so is this matter. For he found her in the countryside, and the betrothed young woman cried out, but there was no one to save her.”
This passage addresses the grave sin of sexual assault or molestation. It states that the perpetrator should be held accountable for their actions and that the victim should not be blamed or punished. It acknowledges the importance of providing protection, justice, and support to those who have experienced such harm and emphasizes the need for a society that stands against any form of assault.
Psalm 9:9
“The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.”
This verse reaffirms God’s promise to be a safe haven for those who have been oppressed or harmed. For victims of molestation, it reminds them of the comforting presence of God, who can offer solace, healing, and protection. It is a reminder that they are not alone and that God is there to provide refuge even in the midst of their pain.
Psalm 34:18
“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”
For those who have experienced molestation and its devastating effects, this verse brings hope and comfort. It reminds them that even in their deepest pain, God is close and willing to rescue them from their brokenness. It offers assurance that God understands their grief and is ready to bring restoration and healing to their wounded spirit.
Psalm 55:22
“Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.”
This verse encourages individuals who have been molested to place their burdens and sorrows before God. It assures them that God will give them strength, support, and stability in the midst of their struggle. It brings the promise that God will never abandon or allow harm to come to those who seek refuge in Him.
Isaiah 41:10
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
In the aftermath of molestation, victims often face fear, confusion, and despair. This verse reminds them that God is by their side, even in the darkest moments. It offers reassurance, strength, and the promise of divine assistance. It reminds them that they are not alone in their journey towards healing and recovery.
Isaiah 43:2
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.”
This verse provides a powerful image of God’s faithfulness and protection. It assures those who have experienced molestation that God will walk beside them through the most difficult trials and prevent them from being overwhelmed or destroyed by their circumstances. It offers the hope of survival, resilience, and restoration even in the face of immense pain.
Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
For victims of molestation, this verse offers an invitation from Jesus to find solace and rest in Him. It acknowledges the weight of their burden and the toll it has taken on their lives. It calls them to trust in Jesus and seek refuge in His loving arms, promising to provide the comfort and relief that they desperately need.
Matthew 18:6
“But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.”
This verse sternly warns against causing harm or leading children astray. It speaks directly to those who perpetrate acts of molestation, emphasizing the severe consequences they will face for their actions. It serves as a reminder of God’s deep concern for the welfare of children and His desire to protect them from any form of abuse.
Matthew 19:14
“But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.'”
In contrast to the previous verse, this passage highlights Jesus’ love and value for children. It reminds us of the importance of nurturing, protecting, and cherishing children, ensuring their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It affirms that the kingdom of heaven is open to all who have childlike faith, emphasizing the need to create a safe and loving environment for children.
Romans 8:18
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”
For those who have experienced molestation, the pain and suffering can be overwhelming. This verse provides encouragement and perspective by reminding them that their present hardships are temporary, and there is a future glory that surpasses all earthly experiences. It offers hope and the assurance that God is working to bring about redemption, healing, and an eternal reward for those who trust in Him.
1 Corinthians 6:18
“Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.”
This verse highlights the importance of fleeing from any form of sexual immorality, including molestation. It emphasizes that such acts not only harm others but also defile the body of the perpetrator. It calls for a pursuit of purity and integrity in all aspects of life, recognizing the sanctity of our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit.
1 Corinthians 10:13
“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation, he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
This verse assures those who have faced the temptation of molestation that they are not alone. It teaches them that God is faithful and will provide a way to escape from such temptations, ensuring that they do not have to bear more than they can handle. It offers strength, encouragement, and the promise of God’s support in times of trial.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”
This passage reminds victims of molestation that God is the ultimate source of comfort and compassion. It highlights that God understands their pain and is able to provide healing and consolation. Furthermore, it encourages those who have experienced healing from their own afflictions to extend that same comfort to others who may be going through similar struggles.
Galatians 6:2
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of supporting and carrying each other’s burdens within the Christian community. It calls for empathy, compassion, and practical assistance for those who have been affected by molestation. It reminds us that part of our responsibility as believers is to help alleviate the pain and suffering of others, offering them love and support in their journey towards healing.
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
For those who have experienced molestation, forgiveness can be a difficult and complex process. This verse encourages a spirit of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness towards others, reminding us of the forgiveness we have received in Christ. It recognizes the healing power of forgiveness, both for the victim and for the perpetrator, and calls us to extend grace, while holding boundaries, as Christ has done for us.
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
This verse serves as a reminder that, through Christ, victims of molestation can find strength to overcome their past and move forward. It reinforces the belief that, with God’s help, they can emerge from their painful experiences with resilience, finding hope, purpose, and the ability to rebuild their lives. It affirms that God’s strength is sufficient to carry them through even the most challenging of circumstances.
Colossians 3:23
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”
This verse encourages victims of molestation to find purpose and significance in their lives, even in the aftermath of their traumatic experiences. It reminds them of the importance of pursuing their dreams, goals, and responsibilities with diligence and commitment, ultimately seeking to honor and serve the Lord. It emphasizes that their past does not define them, and they have the potential to live a fulfilling and purposeful life with Christ as their guide.
1 Peter 2:24
“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds, you have been healed.”
For victims of molestation, this verse offers a profound message of healing and redemption. It reminds them that Jesus carried their burdens and suffered for their sake, providing a way for them to be set free from the power of sin and its consequences. It assures them that through Christ’s wounds, they can find restoration, wholeness, and the opportunity to live a life of righteousness.
1 Peter 5:7
“Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.”
In times of distress and trauma, victims of molestation may carry deep-seated anxieties and fears. This verse reminds them that they can release their burdens and anxieties to God, knowing that He cares for them deeply. It offers the assurance that God is attentive to their cries and ready to provide comfort, strength, and guidance throughout their healing journey.
1 John 1:9
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
For victims of molestation who may carry a burden of guilt or shame, this verse offers the hope of forgiveness and cleansing. It reminds them that, when they confess their sins and turn to God, His faithfulness and justice will lead to their complete forgiveness and purification. It assures them that they can find true freedom and restoration through God’s limitless grace and mercy.
Revelation 21:4
“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
This verse provides a glimpse of the future glory that awaits those who have endured the pain of molestation. It offers hope by revealing that there will come a time when all suffering, sorrow, and pain will cease to exist. It reminds victims that their present struggles are temporary, and they can look forward to an eternity in which every tear will be wiped away and true healing and joy will reign.
With the pervasiveness of molestation and its devastating impact, it is imperative to turn to the Word of God for guidance, solace, and hope. These Bible verses address the topic of molestation with a mix of admonition, compassion, and the promise of healing. They underscore the importance of seeking God’s refuge, finding strength in Christ, and extending forgiveness to both oneself and others. Moreover, these verses emphasize the responsibility of society to protect the vulnerable, demonstrate empathy, and offer support to those who have experienced molestation. In a world marred by brokenness, the Bible serves as a guiding light, offering comfort and a firm foundation for both victims and those seeking to address this grave issue.