What Does the Bible Say About Bullying?

Written By Mary Carter

Mary is a devoted Bible student who loves sharing her knowledge, inspiring others with faith-filled insights, and deepening spiritual understanding through writing.

Bullying is a painful reality that affects many people.

It happens in schools, workplaces, families, and even online.

Being bullied can make someone feel worthless, afraid, and alone.

Many wonder if the Bible speaks about bullying and how to respond to it.

The Bible may not use the word “bullying,” but it has a lot to say about how people should treat one another.

God cares deeply about justice, kindness, and protecting those who are mistreated.

Understanding what the Bible says about bullying can bring comfort to victims and challenge others to stand against cruelty.

God Hates Injustice and Cruelty

God is a God of justice.

He does not overlook cruelty, and He calls His people to stand against it.

Proverbs 6:16-19 lists things that God hates, including “hands that shed innocent blood” and “a heart that devises wicked schemes.”

Bullying, which often involves harm and manipulation, goes against God’s character.

Psalm 11:5 says, “The Lord examines the righteous, but the wicked, those who love violence, he hates with a passion.”

This verse makes it clear that God does not approve of violence or oppression.

He sees every act of bullying, and He will bring justice.

No one gets away with cruelty in God’s eyes.

Treat Others With Kindness and Love

The Bible commands people to treat others with love and respect.

Jesus gave a simple but powerful rule in Matthew 7:12: “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.”

This is known as the Golden Rule.

If people followed this teaching, bullying would not exist.

Ephesians 4:32 encourages, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Kindness is not just a suggestion—it is a command from God.

Those who follow Him should be known for their love, not their cruelty.

A heart filled with God’s love has no room for bullying.

Words Can Hurt or Heal

Bullying is not always physical; sometimes, it is done with words.

Harsh words can leave wounds that last longer than physical injuries.

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Proverbs 12:18 says, “The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”

This shows that words can either destroy or heal.

James 3:5-6 compares the tongue to a small spark that can set a whole forest on fire.

A single cruel comment can ruin someone’s confidence, but kind words can build them up.

Instead of using words to tear others down, the Bible encourages believers to speak life and encouragement.

God Is Close to the Brokenhearted

Being bullied can make a person feel alone, but God promises that He is near to those who are hurting.

Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

God sees every tear and every painful experience.

He does not ignore the suffering of those who are mistreated.

Isaiah 41:10 reminds believers, “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.”

For those who feel weak and afraid because of bullying, God offers strength and comfort.

No one suffers alone when they have God by their side.

Defending the Weak

The Bible calls believers to stand up for those who are being mistreated.

Proverbs 31:8-9 commands, “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.”

This verse encourages people to take action when they see injustice.

Ignoring bullying allows it to continue, but standing up for others can stop it.

Micah 6:8 adds, “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.”

Part of living for God is standing against wrongdoing and helping those in need.

Overcoming Evil With Good

When someone is bullied, it is natural to want to fight back.

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But the Bible teaches a different approach.

Romans 12:17-21 says, “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.”

The passage ends with a powerful statement: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

This does not mean accepting mistreatment, but it does mean responding with integrity.

Fighting hate with more hate only makes the situation worse.

Instead, God calls His people to rise above cruelty and choose kindness and wisdom.

Trusting God to Bring Justice

It can be frustrating when bullies seem to go unpunished.

But the Bible assures that God sees everything and will bring justice in His time.

Deuteronomy 32:35 says, “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.”

No one gets away with cruelty forever.

Even if it seems like they are winning now, God’s justice will prevail.

Psalm 37:7-9 encourages patience, saying, “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.

Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil.

For those who are evil will be destroyed, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.”

God sees and will act in His perfect timing.

Forgiveness Brings Freedom

One of the hardest things the Bible teaches is to forgive those who hurt us.

Ephesians 4:31-32 says, “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.”

Forgiveness does not mean accepting bullying or allowing it to continue.

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It means letting go of hatred so that it does not take control of one’s heart.

Jesus Himself forgave those who hurt Him, even as He was dying on the cross.

Luke 23:34 records His words: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

Holding onto anger only causes more pain, but forgiveness brings peace and healing.

Parents and Leaders Must Take Action

God holds parents, teachers, and leaders accountable for protecting those in their care.

Ephesians 6:4 instructs parents to “bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”

Part of this training is teaching kindness and respect.

When bullying happens, adults must take it seriously.

Proverbs 22:6 says, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”

When children learn kindness early, they are less likely to become bullies.

Leaders and teachers should also protect those who are being mistreated.

Isaiah 1:17 calls believers to “seek justice, defend the oppressed.”

Stopping bullying is not just about punishment—it is about creating a culture of respect and kindness.

Final Thoughts

The Bible makes it clear that bullying is wrong.

God cares deeply about those who are mistreated and calls His people to stand against injustice.

He commands kindness, encourages speaking up for others, and reminds victims that they are not alone.

Even in the face of cruelty, believers are called to respond with love and trust in God’s justice.

No matter how painful bullying may be, God is always present, offering comfort, strength, and hope.

By following His guidance, people can overcome fear, promote kindness, and create a world where love is stronger than hate.