Abuse: What the Bible Says About God’s Love, Justice, and Healing for Victims

Abuse, in any form—physical, verbal, emotional, psychological, or sexual—is a violation of God’s principle of unselfish love. The Bible condemns abuse and offers hope, healing, and justice for victims. Here’s what Scripture teaches about abuse, the responsibility of abusers, and God’s care for those who suffer:

1. Abuse Contradicts God’s Love

God is love, and abuse has no place in His kingdom.

"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love." – 1 John 4:7-8, NKJV

Husbands are called to love their wives, not harm them.

"Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them." – Colossians 3:19, NIV

2. The Nature of Abuse

Verbal abuse reveals a person’s true character.

"He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin." – Proverbs 13:3, NIV

Violence is a mark of unfaithfulness.

"A man shall eat well by the fruit of his mouth, but the soul of the unfaithful feeds on violence." – Proverbs 13:2, NKJV

Do not admire or imitate violent people.

"Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways." – Proverbs 3:31, NIV

3. God’s Stance on Sexual Abuse

Incest and sexual exploitation are forbidden.

"No one is to approach any close relative to have sexual relations." – Leviticus 18:6, NIV

4. Comfort for Victims of Abuse

Victims are not to blame; abusers are responsible for their actions.

Abusers often manipulate victims into feeling guilty, but no one deserves abuse.

God offers refuge and healing to victims.

"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him I will trust.'" – Psalm 91:1-2, NKJV

God promises protection and deliverance.

"Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name. He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him." – Psalm 91:14-15, NKJV

5. Justice for Abusers

God will hold abusers accountable.

"Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, 'Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,' says the Lord." – Romans 12:19, NKJV

6. God’s Healing and Presence

Jesus came to heal the brokenhearted and set captives free.

"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, because the Lord has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound." – Isaiah 61:1, NKJV

God promises never to leave or forsake His children.

"Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'" – Hebrews 13:5, NKJV

God provides peace and safety.

"When you lie down, you will not be afraid; yes, you will lie down and your sleep will be sweet. Do not be afraid of sudden terror, nor of trouble from the wicked when it comes; for the Lord will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being caught." – Proverbs 3:24-26, NKJV

7. Practical Steps for Healing

Seek safety and support.

Reach out to trusted friends, family, or professionals who can provide help and protection.

Pray for strength and healing.

"The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit." – Psalm 34:18, NKJV

Forgive in God’s timing, but set boundaries.

Forgiveness does not mean staying in an abusive situation.

Conclusion

Abuse is a grave sin that contradicts God’s nature of love and justice. The Bible condemns abuse, offers comfort and healing to victims, and assures that abusers will face God’s judgment. Through His Word, His presence, and His people, God provides hope, safety, and restoration for those who have suffered.

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Discover what the Bible says about abuse—God’s love, justice for abusers, and healing for victims. Find hope and refuge in His promises.