What does the Bible say about abuse? While the Bible doesn’t specifically mention abuse, there are a number of scriptures that highlight the importance of how we treat each other and how God wants us to treat each other. Ephesians 5:33 tells us ‘Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her’, while Colossians 3:12 says ‘Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience’. This shows that God expects people to treat each other with respect and love, no matter who that person may be.
The Bible outlines the standards of behavior that each Christian should live by and strive for. Abuse, in any form, is unacceptable behaviour. Abuse is not only a physical act but can also be emotional and psychologically damaging. Abuse of power and control such as intentionally hurting someone through words, using fear to manipulate a situation, and treating people unequally are all ways in which an individual can be abused.
The Bible talks extensively about forgiveness, peace and understanding. Hard to accept though it may be, it also talks about turning the other cheek and not repaying evil with evil. 2 Timothy 1:7 says ‘For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline’ and Behati 5:19-20 lets us know ‘Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath’. This proves God is ultimately in control and that taking revenge or attacking someone is not a path that God wants us to take.
The Bible speaks out against violence and aggression, but it also encourages us to show kindness and respect in all situations. Galatians 5:22-23 outlines the fruit of the spirit as ‘love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control’ and instructs us to live by these values. These values also point to our lack of understanding of some of the most important values of the Bible. If we understand these values and live by them, then we can avoid abusive situations and help support those who may be experiencing abuse.
Breaking the cycle of abuse and being an example of what is right is essential in order to make a difference and create a safe and healthy environment for everyone. To do this, we need to turn to the Bible for guidance and be sure to act in accordance with its teachings, as the Bible speaks against violence, aggression and abuse and has the ultimate authority on what is acceptable behavior in all situations.
Help for Victims
It’s important to remember that victims of abuse have choices and options. Psalm 91:11, 12 tells us ‘He will give His angels special orders about you, to protect you wherever you go. They will hold you up with their hands so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.’ Finding safe places and support, via local helplines, counselors, therapists, and shelters, is important if you’re a victim of abuse. Victims can also look to the Bible for advice and comfort, with James 1:5 assuring us: ‘If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.’
Furthermore, the Bible doesn’t just offer support, it also gives victims hope of a better future through faith in God. Deuteronomy 31:6 promises ‘Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.’ No matter who we are, no matter what the situation, there is always hope, so remember you are never alone.
Restorative Justice
Restorative justice is the process of repairing damage done by a criminal and is an important aspect of the Bible. Jesus came to bring restoration, not just punishment. Leviticus 6:4-5 outlines restoration for theft and stealing, Exodus 22:4-5 teaches us about restitution for fraud, and 2 Corinthians 7:11 instructs us to ‘Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret’ have all been outlined to ensure justice is done, but not at the expense of restoring or repairing the victim or offender.
Restoring the victim is just as important as restoring the perpetrator in dealing with the impact of a criminal offense. Restorative justice teaches us that no act of abuse is too severe to forgive. When victims take the first step to confront their abuser, even if it is a difficult step, they become more empowered and closer to God.
Restorative justice places an emphasis on repairing the damage done to a relationship as opposed to punishing the offender. Once the victim is restored, the offender can make a sincere apology and express remorse. This is important because mistakes and wrong doing should not be forgotten, but forgiven and an effort should be made to make the situation right.
Supporting Other Victims
Supporting victims of abuse is essential in helping them find their way to safety and in bringing them closer to God. Proverbs 19:17 encourages us to ‘Whoever is kind to the poor, lends to the Lord, and He will reward them for what they have done.’ This implies that those who have experienced abuse and have freed themselves from it are closer to God than those who have not.
Therefore many religious organizations focus on helping those in need. Compassion, love and mercy are what the Bible teaches us to offer in difficult times. By coming together in a supportive and understanding way, we can provide emotional support and encouragement to victims of abuse and lead them towards healing and reconciliation with God.
Victims of abuse should also be aware of their right to report abuse to authorities in order to stop the cycle of abuse. In James 4:17, it states that ‘Anyone who knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin’. This advices us not take advantage of those more vulnerable, but be responsible and respectful when in a position of power.
Breaking the Cycle of Abuse
In order to break the cycle of abuse and prevent it from occurring, individuals must understand the behavior, be mindful of their thoughts and actions, and have a heart for compassion and love. The Bible instructs us to speak up for those in need and to defend the oppressed. Proverbs 24:11-12 says ‘Rescue those who are being taken away to death; hold back those who are stumbling to the slaughter. If you say, “But we knew nothing about this,” does not He who weighs the heart perceive it?’ We must do all we can to protect those vulnerable around us.
Breaking the cycle of abuse involves understanding the risks of abuse and how this can manifest in a variety of ways. It also involves being educated on the signs of abuse and what can be done in order to report and stop it. This journey must be walked with caution and supported by those who want to see real change.
All of us have the power to make a difference, to become a beacon of light, a lighthouse, a safe space, and to bring hope to those in need. We are all called to be peacemakers. Exodus 15:3 declares ‘The Lord is a warrior; the Lord is His Name’ and we as warriors can fight for justice, safety and support for those who have been abused.
Attitudes and Behaviors
Abuse of any kind is a huge issue and it starts with attitudes and beliefs. Everyone should challenge their attitudes and beliefs by asking questions and gaining new perspective. Understanding the impact of abuse, the language and words used in anger and aggression, and realizing everyone is unique and has unique needs, can help individuals avoid patterns of abusive behaviour and ensure those around them are safe.
Furthermore, although difficult, it is important for victims and offenders to recognize the shared responsibility and control that is needed to address and heal from abusiveness. It is only when we become open and willing to look at our own actions, as well as the actions of those who have hurt us, that we can start to take steps towards healing.
Words are powerful and have the power to tear down and create suffering. We can all stop the spiral of abusive behaviour and create meaningful and lasting change by using those same words to build bridges, promote understanding, and extend love and compassion. This is why 1 Peter 4:8 tells us ‘Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.’
Creating Awareness
Creating awareness of abuse and how it affects people is essential in helping victims get to safety. Psalm 68:6 says ‘God sets the lonely in families, he leads out the prisoners with singing’ and reminds us of the hope and kindness we can show those in need. We can also use the power of awareness to start conversations, spread knowledge and understanding, and do all we can to prevent further abuse from occurring in the future.
By speaking out against abuse, standing alongside the vulnerable, providing mentoring, advocating for supportive resources, and promoting alternative solutions for conflict resolution, we can make a powerful statement against abuse, and help those in need overcome their past experiences. The Bible reminds us that we must act with justice and kindness for those who have been wronged, as Proverbs 3:27 states ‘Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in your power to do it’.
Everyone has a part to play in creating awareness and dismantling culture of abuse. A great place to start is by using the power of our words, talking openly and honestly about abuse, and demonstrating what it means to stand alongside those in need. This is something all of us can do, no matter our beliefs.
