35 Important Bible Verses About Bullying

Also Read: Bible Verses About Manipulation

Top Bible Verses About Bullying

Romans 12:14

“Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them.”

This verse emphasizes the importance of responding to bullying and persecution with kindness and prayer. Instead of seeking revenge or harboring bitterness, Christians are called to bless and pray for those who harm them. This reflects the transformative power of God’s love and the call to live out the principles of the gospel, even in difficult circumstances.

Proverbs 6:16-19

“There are six things the Lord hates— no, seven things he detests: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that kill the innocent, a heart that plots evil, feet that race to do wrong, a false witness who pours out lies, a person who sows discord in a family.”

This passage highlights behaviors that God finds detestable, including causing harm and sowing discord. Bullying often involves lying, plotting evil, and creating division, all of which are condemned here. The strong language used underscores the severity of such actions and serves as a warning to avoid participating in or condoning bullying behavior.

Matthew 5:44

“But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!”

Jesus’ command to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us is a radical departure from natural human inclinations. In the context of bullying, this means responding with love and prayer rather than retaliation. It challenges believers to embody Christ’s love and forgiveness, which can ultimately transform hearts and situations.

1 Peter 3:9

“Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will grant you his blessing.”

This verse reinforces the call to respond to evil and insults with blessings instead of retaliation. By choosing to bless rather than curse, believers follow Christ’s example and open the door for God’s blessings in their own lives. It promotes a cycle of positive responses that can break the chain of hostility and aggression.

Proverbs 22:10

“Throw out the mocker, and fighting goes, too. Quarrels and insults will disappear.”

Proverbs offers practical wisdom for dealing with conflict. Removing the source of mocking and bullying can lead to peace and the cessation of quarrels. This suggests that addressing the root cause of bullying—often a person or group stirring up trouble—can restore harmony and prevent further conflict.

James 4:11

“Don’t speak evil against each other, dear brothers and sisters. If you criticize and judge each other, then you are criticizing and judging God’s law. But your job is to obey the law, not to judge whether it applies to you.”

This verse cautions against speaking evil and judging others, actions that are common in bullying. By refraining from such behavior, believers honor God’s law and focus on their own obedience rather than condemning others. It encourages a community of respect and understanding, reducing the likelihood of bullying.

Psalm 34:18

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.”

This verse provides comfort to those who are victims of bullying, reminding them that God is near to the brokenhearted and offers rescue to those who are crushed in spirit. It assures believers that God is attentive to their suffering and ready to provide support and deliverance in times of distress.

Luke 6:31

“Do to others as you would like them to do to you.”

The Golden Rule, as stated by Jesus, is a powerful antidote to bullying. By treating others as we wish to be treated, we foster a culture of empathy and respect. This principle, if widely adopted, can significantly reduce instances of bullying and promote positive, supportive interactions.

Proverbs 12:18

“Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.”

This proverb contrasts harmful speech with wise, healing words. Bullying often involves cutting remarks that wound deeply. In response, believers are encouraged to use their words to bring healing and encouragement. This not only helps the victims but also sets a positive example for others to follow.

Romans 14:19

“So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up.”

Promoting harmony and building each other up is a direct counter to the destructive nature of bullying. By striving for unity and encouraging one another, believers create a supportive community where bullying has no place. This proactive approach helps to prevent bullying and fosters a culture of mutual respect and support.

1 Thessalonians 5:15

“See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to all people.”

This exhortation to avoid retaliation and do good to all people aligns with Jesus’ teaching on loving our enemies. In the context of bullying, it means responding with kindness and goodness, even to those who harm us. This reflects the transformative power of Christ’s love and can help to de-escalate conflicts and change hearts.

Proverbs 15:1

“A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.”

Proverbs highlights the power of a gentle response in diffusing anger. In situations of bullying, responding with gentleness rather than harshness can prevent the escalation of conflict and promote peace. This wisdom encourages believers to choose their words carefully and strive for calm, constructive communication.

1 John 4:20

“If someone says, ‘I love God,’ but hates a fellow believer, that person is a liar; for if we don’t love people we can see, how can we love God, whom we cannot see?”

This verse challenges believers to demonstrate their love for God through their love for others. Hatred and bullying are incompatible with genuine love for God. By fostering love and compassion for fellow believers, we reflect our relationship with God and create a community where bullying is not tolerated.

Ephesians 4:29

“Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.”

This verse encourages believers to use their words constructively, avoiding foul or abusive language. In the context of bullying, it calls for speech that is good, helpful, and encouraging. By choosing our words carefully, we can uplift others and create a positive, supportive environment that discourages bullying.

Proverbs 16:24

“Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.”

The analogy of kind words being like honey emphasizes their positive impact on both the soul and the body. In contrast to the harm caused by bullying, kind words promote emotional and physical well-being. This wisdom encourages believers to speak kindly, fostering a culture of encouragement and support.

Also Read: Bible Verses About Letting Go

Galatians 5:14

“For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'”

This foundational commandment encapsulates the essence of Christian behavior. By loving our neighbors as ourselves, we naturally avoid behaviors like bullying, which cause harm. This principle calls believers to treat others with the same care and respect they desire, promoting harmony and compassion.

Isaiah 41:10

“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”

God’s promise of presence, strength, and help provides comfort to those facing bullying. Knowing that God is with them, believers can find courage and support in difficult times. This assurance helps them to stand firm and trust in God’s provision and protection, even in the face of adversity.

1 Corinthians 16:14

“And do everything with love.”

This simple yet profound command calls believers to infuse all their actions with love. In the context of bullying, it means responding to aggression and harm with love and compassion. By doing so, believers reflect Christ’s love and set an example that can transform hostile situations into opportunities for grace and reconciliation.

Matthew 7:12

“Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.”

The Golden Rule, reiterated here, encapsulates the ethical teachings of the Bible. By treating others as we wish to be treated, we naturally avoid harmful behaviors like bullying. This principle encourages empathy and respect, fostering a community where everyone is valued and treated with kindness.

Philippians 2:3

“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves.”

This verse challenges believers to adopt a posture of humility and selflessness. By valuing others above ourselves, we are less likely to engage in bullying, which often stems from selfishness and a desire to dominate. This attitude fosters mutual respect and consideration, promoting a supportive and caring community.

Colossians 3:12

“Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”

Believers are called to embody virtues that counteract bullying: mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. These qualities promote a compassionate and supportive environment, reducing the likelihood of bullying. By living out these virtues, Christians reflect God’s love and create a safe space for all.

Micah 6:8

“No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”

This verse encapsulates God’s requirements for His people: justice, mercy, and humility. In the context of bullying, it calls believers to act justly, show mercy, and walk humbly. These principles guide believers to stand against bullying and support those who are oppressed, reflecting God’s heart for justice and compassion.

Hebrews 13:6

“So we can say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?'”

This verse offers reassurance to those who face bullying, reminding them that God is their helper and they need not fear human threats. It provides a sense of security and confidence in God’s protection, encouraging believers to stand firm in their faith and trust in God’s provision.

Psalm 82:3-4

“Give justice to the poor and the orphan; uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute. Rescue the poor and helpless; deliver them from the grasp of evil people.”

This passage calls believers to advocate for justice and defend the oppressed. In the context of bullying, it means standing up for those who are victimized and working to protect them from harm. This proactive stance reflects God’s concern for justice and the well-being of the vulnerable.

Matthew 18:10

“Beware that you don’t look down on any of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels are always in the presence of my heavenly Father.”

Jesus’ warning against looking down on “little ones” underscores the importance of valuing and protecting the vulnerable. In the context of bullying, it means recognizing the inherent worth of every individual and treating them with dignity and respect. This perspective helps to prevent bullying and promote a culture of care and compassion.

Psalm 138:7

“Though I am surrounded by troubles, you will protect me from the anger of my enemies. You reach out your hand, and the power of your right hand saves me.”

This verse provides assurance of God’s protection in times of trouble, including situations of bullying. Believers can trust that God will protect them from harm and deliver them from their enemies. This confidence in God’s saving power offers comfort and strength in the face of adversity.

Isaiah 54:17

“But in that coming day no weapon turned against you will succeed. You will silence every voice raised up to accuse you. These benefits are enjoyed by the servants of the Lord; their vindication will come from me. I, the Lord, have spoken!”

God’s promise of protection and vindication assures believers that no weapon or accusation will ultimately prevail against them. In the context of bullying, this means that God will defend and uphold them. This assurance encourages believers to trust in God’s justice and remain steadfast in their faith.

Zechariah 7:9-10

“This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies says: Judge fairly, and show mercy and kindness to one another. Do not oppress widows, orphans, foreigners, and the poor. And do not scheme against each other.”

God’s call to judge fairly, show mercy, and avoid oppression underscores the importance of justice and compassion. In the context of bullying, it means treating everyone with fairness and kindness, especially the vulnerable. This guidance helps to create a community where bullying is not tolerated and everyone is treated with respect.

1 John 3:15

“Anyone who hates another brother or sister is really a murderer at heart. And you know that murderers don’t have eternal life within them.”

This strong statement equates hatred with murder, highlighting the seriousness of harboring ill will towards others. In the context of bullying, it serves as a stark warning against allowing hatred to take root. By promoting love and reconciliation, believers can prevent the destructive consequences of hatred and bullying.

James 1:19

“Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.”

This verse offers practical advice for managing interactions and preventing conflict. By being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, believers can avoid the misunderstandings and escalations that often lead to bullying. This approach fosters calm, constructive communication and helps to resolve conflicts peacefully.

Proverbs 17:9

“Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends.”

This proverb highlights the importance of forgiveness in maintaining relationships. In the context of bullying, forgiving faults rather than dwelling on them can help to restore relationships and prevent further harm. This wisdom encourages a culture of forgiveness and reconciliation, reducing the likelihood of ongoing conflict and bullying.

Matthew 5:9

“God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.”

Jesus’ blessing on peacemakers underscores the value of actively pursuing peace. In the context of bullying, it means taking steps to resolve conflicts and promote harmony. By working for peace, believers reflect God’s nature and contribute to a community where bullying is less likely to occur.

Psalm 46:1

“God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.”

This verse offers assurance of God’s constant presence and help in times of trouble, including situations of bullying. Believers can find refuge and strength in God, knowing that He is ready to support and deliver them. This confidence in God’s care provides comfort and encouragement in difficult times.

Proverbs 10:12

“Hatred stirs up quarrels, but love makes up for all offenses.”

This proverb contrasts the divisive nature of hatred with the unifying power of love. In the context of bullying, it means that responding with love can heal wounds and restore relationships. By choosing love over hatred, believers can create a more harmonious and supportive community, reducing the likelihood of bullying.

Romans 15:2

“We should help others do what is right and build them up in the Lord.”

This verse calls believers to support and encourage one another in doing what is right. In the context of bullying, it means standing against harmful behaviors and building each other up. By fostering a community of support and encouragement, believers can create an environment where bullying is less likely to occur.

Psalm 27:1

“The Lord is my light and my salvation— so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?”

This verse offers assurance of God’s protection and presence, dispelling fear. For those facing bullying, it provides a sense of security and confidence in God’s care. This assurance helps believers to stand firm and trust in God’s protection, even in the face of threats and intimidation.

Also Read: Bible Verses About Shame

What Does the Bible Say About Bullying

The Bible teaches us to love and respect one another, showing kindness and compassion in all our actions. Bullying is the opposite of what the Bible encourages. It involves hurting others, either physically, emotionally, or verbally, and can make people feel worthless and unloved.

One of the core teachings in the Bible is to love your neighbor as yourself. This means treating others the way you want to be treated. Bullying goes against this principle because it involves treating others with cruelty and disrespect. Instead of building others up, bullying tears them down, which is not the way God wants us to live.

The Bible also speaks a lot about the importance of using our words wisely. Words can have a powerful impact, either for good or bad. Bullying often involves using words to hurt someone, like calling them names or spreading lies about them. God wants us to use our words to encourage and support one another, not to cause pain and suffering.

Another important teaching in the Bible is the concept of kindness and compassion. We are called to show mercy and kindness to everyone, especially those who are vulnerable or in need. Bullying targets those who are often already struggling, making their lives even harder. By being kind and compassionate, we reflect God’s love and care for all people.

The Bible also encourages us to stand up for what is right and to defend those who are being mistreated. If we see someone being bullied, we should not remain silent. Instead, we should offer support and speak out against the injustice. This helps to create a community where everyone feels safe and valued.

Forgiveness is another key aspect of the Bible’s teachings. While it is important to stop bullying and stand up for what is right, we are also called to forgive those who hurt us. This does not mean accepting the bullying behavior, but it does mean letting go of the bitterness and anger that can take root in our hearts.

In summary, the Bible encourages us to love, respect, and show kindness to one another. Bullying goes against these principles, causing harm and suffering. By following the Bible’s teachings, we can create a more loving and supportive community, where everyone feels valued and cared for.