23 Bible Verses About Bullying

Bullying is a topic that hits close to home for many of us. Whether it’s the schoolyard taunts from childhood or the more subtle, yet equally damaging, forms of adult bullying, the impact is real and lasting. In a world where kindness sometimes feels like a rare commodity, it’s crucial to remember that we’re called to a higher standard of love and respect.

The Bible, with its timeless wisdom, offers profound insights into how we should treat one another and how to respond when faced with cruelty. It reminds us of the inherent value in every person and the power of standing up for what is right. As you explore these 23 Bible verses about bullying, may you find encouragement to be a beacon of light and compassion in a world that desperately needs it. Let these scriptures inspire you to foster environments of respect and understanding, where everyone feels valued and safe.

23 Bible Verses About Bullying

Verses About Treating Others with Kindness
Verses About Standing Up for Others
Verses About Responding to Bullying
Verses About Forgiveness
Verses About God’s Justice

Kindness is a powerful antidote to bullying. When we treat others with kindness, we reflect the heart of the teachings found throughout the Bible. The story of the Good Samaritan is a perfect example of this. Despite cultural differences and societal expectations, the Samaritan chose to show compassion and kindness to someone in need. This act of kindness not only helped the injured man but also set a standard for how we should treat others, regardless of their background or circumstances. By choosing kindness, we can create an environment where bullying has no place.

Matthew 7:12: “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”

Colossians 3:12: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

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.”

Proverbs 15:1: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

Romans 12:10: “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”

Standing up for others is a courageous act that can make a significant difference in the lives of those who are bullied. In the Bible, we see figures like Esther, who risked her own safety to stand up for her people. Her bravery and willingness to speak out against injustice saved many lives. Similarly, when we stand up for those who are being bullied, we become advocates for justice and protectors of the vulnerable. It’s about using our voice and actions to support those who may not be able to defend themselves.

Proverbs 31:8–9: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”

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.”

Psalm 82:3–4: “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”

Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

Responding to bullying can be challenging, but it’s important to approach it with wisdom and grace. The Bible encourages us to turn the other cheek, which doesn’t mean accepting mistreatment but rather choosing a path of peace and understanding. This approach can defuse situations and prevent further harm. It’s about finding a balance between protecting oneself and not perpetuating the cycle of aggression. By responding thoughtfully, we can break the cycle of bullying and promote a culture of respect and empathy.

Romans 12:17–19: “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.”

Matthew 5:44: “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

1 Thessalonians 5:15: “Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.”

Proverbs 20:22: “Do not say, ‘I’ll pay you back for this wrong!’ Wait for the LORD, and he will avenge you.”

Forgiveness is a powerful tool in healing from the hurt caused by bullying. It doesn’t mean forgetting or excusing the behavior, but rather releasing the hold it has on us. Joseph’s story in the Bible illustrates this beautifully. Despite being wronged by his brothers, he chose to forgive them, which ultimately led to reconciliation and healing. Forgiveness allows us to move forward without the burden of resentment, opening the door to peace and restoration.

Colossians 3:13: “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

Matthew 6:14–15: “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

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.”

Luke 6:37: “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.”

Mark 11:25: “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”

God’s justice assures us that wrongdoing does not go unnoticed. While we may not always see immediate consequences for bullying, the Bible reminds us that justice will prevail in due time. The story of David and Goliath shows us that even the seemingly powerful can be brought down by divine justice. Trusting in God’s justice means believing that fairness and righteousness will ultimately triumph, providing hope and assurance to those who have been wronged.

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.”

Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Romans 12:19: “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.”

Psalm 9:9: “The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.”

2 Thessalonians 1:6: “God is just: He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you.”