26 Bible Verses About Revenge

Revenge is a dish best served cold—or so the saying goes. But is it really? When someone wrongs us, the desire to get even can feel almost irresistible. It’s like a fire burning inside, demanding justice on our terms. Yet, as satisfying as it might seem in the moment, revenge often leaves us feeling emptier than before, tangled in a web of bitterness and regret.

The Bible offers a different perspective, one that challenges our instincts and invites us to rise above the cycle of retribution. It calls us to a higher standard, one that embraces forgiveness, grace, and trust in divine justice. These principles might not always align with our immediate feelings, but they promise a path to true peace and freedom.

In this article, we’ll explore 26 Bible verses about revenge, each offering wisdom and guidance on how to navigate the complex emotions that arise when we’re wronged. Let these verses be a reminder that there’s a better way forward, one that leads to healing and wholeness.

26 Bible Verses About Revenge

Verses About Forgiveness Over Revenge
Verses About God’s Role in Justice
Verses About Peace and Reconciliation
Verses About The Consequences of Revenge
Verses About Love and Compassion

Choosing forgiveness over revenge can be one of the most challenging decisions we face. It requires us to let go of our desire for retribution and instead embrace a path of healing and grace. This is beautifully illustrated in the story of Joseph, who, despite being wronged by his brothers, chose to forgive them and provide for their needs. Forgiveness transforms our hearts and relationships, offering a way forward that revenge never can.

Matthew 5:38–39: “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.”

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.”

Luke 6:27–28: “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”

Romans 12:17: “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.”

Proverbs 24:29: “Do not say, ‘I’ll do to them as they have done to me; I’ll pay them back for what they did.’”

When it comes to justice, it’s important to remember that divine justice operates on a different plane than human justice. The Bible often reminds us that God sees the bigger picture and administers justice in ways that are beyond our understanding. This is evident in the story of King David, who, despite his flaws, trusted in God’s judgment rather than taking matters into his own hands. Trusting in divine justice allows us to release our burdens and trust that fairness will ultimately prevail.

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.”

Deuteronomy 32:35: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay. In due time their foot will slip; their day of disaster is near and their doom rushes upon them.”

Psalm 94:1: “The LORD is a God who avenges. O God who avenges, shine forth.”

Hebrews 10:30: “For we know him who said, ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ and again, ‘The Lord will judge his people.’”

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

Peace and reconciliation are powerful forces that can mend even the most broken relationships. The early church, as described in the New Testament, often faced conflicts and disagreements. Yet, through dialogue and a commitment to unity, they found ways to reconcile and maintain peace within their communities. Embracing peace over conflict leads to stronger bonds and a more harmonious existence.

Matthew 5:9: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”

Romans 12:18: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

2 Corinthians 5:18: “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.”

James 3:18: “Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.”

1 Peter 3:11: “They must turn from evil and do good; they must seek peace and pursue it.”

Proverbs 16:7: “When the LORD takes pleasure in anyone’s way, he causes their enemies to make peace with them.”

The consequences of revenge can be far-reaching and destructive. The story of Absalom, who sought revenge against his father, King David, serves as a cautionary tale. His quest for vengeance led to turmoil and tragedy, affecting not only his own life but also the lives of many others. Revenge often spirals out of control, leaving a trail of pain and regret in its wake.

Proverbs 17:13: “Evil will never leave the house of one who pays back evil for good.”

Matthew 26:52: “Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him, “for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.”

Galatians 6:7: “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”

Proverbs 26:27: “Whoever digs a pit will fall into it; if someone rolls a stone, it will roll back on them.”

Job 4:8: “As I have observed, those who plow evil and those who sow trouble reap it.”

Love and compassion are transformative forces that can break the cycle of revenge. Jesus’ teachings emphasize the power of love to overcome hatred and hostility. By choosing compassion, we open ourselves to understanding and empathy, creating opportunities for healing and connection. Love is a radical choice that can change hearts and bring about true reconciliation.

1 Peter 4:8: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”

1 John 4:7: “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.”

Proverbs 10:12: “Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.”

Romans 13:10: “Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.”

1 Corinthians 13:4–5: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”