Experiencing bullying or mockery can have a negative impact on your self-esteem, causing you to feel unimportant and undervalued. It's possible that you may feel like nobody cares about you. However, it's important to understand that Jesus Christ was also the recipient of ridicule and mistreatment, which means he can relate to what you're going through. He can provide you with the strength and support needed to help you overcome this situation. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 12:10 that when we are weak, He makes us strong.
Worth in Christ
God created each person uniquely with different talents, personalities, and desires. We are not mass-produced but carefully crafted by the God of the universe who knows us by name.
Just think of it: You are God’s masterpiece! Your life is not worthless, no matter what others say or how they treat you. Your life is a gift from God. He knew you before you were even born. Psalm 139:13-14 says, “You created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful.”
God values you. And He doesn’t show favouritism (Acts 10:34). He loves you and cares how you feel. 1 Peter 5:7 says, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” If you have trusted in Jesus Christ as Lord, you are called a child of God. 1 John 3:1 says, “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!”
Why bullies bully
Some people, regardless of age, tend to bully others due to various reasons. It could be because of jealousy or resentment towards something beyond your control, or they might be going through a tough time at home and take it out on you to feel in control. They may have a negative self-image or receive little attention from those around them. Some bullies may also seek attention, status, or approval from their peers by targeting others. Whatever the reason may be, it's important to understand that their behaviour is not justified and that you don't deserve to be treated poorly.
Although it is not certain, it is important to remember that you may not be the only one going through a difficult situation. While there is no justification for bullying, understanding the reasons behind it may help you respond in the most appropriate manner.
Response
While the word “bully” does not appear in the Bible, the idea of treating others in a brutish or disrespectful way does. Christians can even be a specific target of bullies since trying to live like Christ is often countercultural.
Matthew 5:39 says, “Do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.” However, this doesn’t mean you can’t ask for God’s defence or stand up for yourself.
When responding to a bullying situation, remember that the Bible tells us to treat others fairly and with respect. Matthew 22:39 says to love others as yourself. And Romans 12:18 advises, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” When faced with someone talking bad about you, making fun of you or putting you down, do not seek revenge but respond in love. Matthew 5:44 says to “love your enemies,” and Matthew 5:9 says peacemakers will be blessed. Luke 6:28 even says, “Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”
How you treat others reflects your relationship with God since He created and values everyone. When you respond to bullies in love, they notice and might even change their attitude toward you. Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
At the same time, if the bullying is negatively affecting you—mentally, emotionally or physically—do not allow yourself to remain in danger, but seek support from a trusted adult or authority figure. Remember that our strength comes not from ourselves but from God, who cares about us and gives us hope. Let that give you the confidence to endure. Psalm 34:4-5 says, “I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.”
Sometimes, it’s wise to even flee from a bully. Out of jealousy, King Saul in the Bible chased David, and David fled (1 Samuel 19-24). Fleeing from a bully isn’t cowardly; it’s often the best choice when we can’t protect ourselves. Ask God for wisdom in how you should respond, and trust Him to bring justice.
If it is a fellow Christian who is wronging you, Matthew 18:15-17 says to point out the wrongdoing to the person. If that person doesn’t listen, ask one or two others to approach him or her with you. If that doesn’t change anything, bring the issue to your church.
Regardless of the situation, we can find comfort and protection in God. Psalm 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Let His strength encourage you today.
Protecting others
Ephesians 5 & 6 calls husbands to defend their families and businesses. And it’s up to parents to try to protect their children from danger.
If you suspect that your child is being bullied, it's important to take action and not assume that the problem will go away on its own. One helpful strategy may be to role-play with your child different ways in which they can respond to the bully, so that they feel more confident and prepared. It's also essential to keep an open line of communication with your child so that they feel comfortable sharing their experiences with you. If the bullying persists, don't hesitate to seek help from other responsible adults or school administrators in order to resolve the issue and ensure your child's safety.