If you’re a true Christian, you’ll speak out against these 8 forms of bullying

As a Christian, you’re called to love your neighbor and stand for justice. Sadly, bullying exists in many forms and it’s our duty to call it out.

The difference between ignoring it and addressing it boils down to action. Simply ignoring bullying is like witnessing injustice and turning a blind eye.

Speaking out against it, however, means you’re sticking up for those who are vulnerable and showcasing the love of Christ in action.

Being a true Christian means standing up against these 8 forms of bullying. Here’s how you can speak out, in love and truth.

1) Verbal bullying

Words can be just as powerful as actions, and they can cut just as deep.

Verbal bullying is a form of bullying that is often overlooked. It is the act of using words, statements and negative comments to belittle, demean and hurt another individual.

As Christians, we are taught to use our words to uplift and encourage others. The Bible even says, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” (Ephesians 4:29)

Speaking out against verbal bullying means standing up for those who are being hurt by harsh words. It means reminding others of the power of their words and encouraging them to use it for good.

Remember – if you’re silent when you witness verbal bullying, you become complicit. As a true Christian, it’s your duty to intervene and show God’s love through your actions.

2) Cyberbullying

Let’s face it, the Internet can be a dark place. I’ve seen it firsthand.

I remember scrolling through my social media feed and stumbling upon a hateful comment on a friend’s post. The comment was harsh, uncalled for and downright cruel. It was a clear case of cyberbullying.

As a Christian, I couldn’t just scroll past and ignore it. I knew I had to take action.

So, I reached out to my friend, offering support and encouraging words, reminding them of their worth. Then, I reported the comment and the person who posted it.

Cyberbullying is a serious issue that affects individuals of all ages. It’s our responsibility as Christians to speak out against it, to stand up for those being bullied online and to promote kindness on all platforms.

In our digital world, remember that your screen and keyboard should not be tools for harm but rather instruments of love and encouragement.

3) Physical bullying

Physical bullying is an aggressive form of bullying that involves physical harm or intimidation. It’s perhaps the most notable form of bullying, often depicted in movies and TV shows.

However, it’s not just a Hollywood script – it’s a harsh reality for many individuals. According to the National Bullying Prevention Center, one in every five students reports being bullied, and a significant portion of those cases involve physical bullying.

As Christians, we believe in the sanctity and dignity of every human life. Therefore, we must speak out against physical bullying and work towards creating safe environments where everyone is respected and protected.

In the face of physical bullying, don’t stand by idly. Stand up, speak out, and remember the Biblical call to “defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and oppressed.” (Psalm 82:3)

4) Social exclusion

Ever been the last one picked for a team? Or the one left out of social gatherings? If so, you know how painful social exclusion can be.

Social exclusion is a subtle form of bullying where a person is deliberately left out of social activities or ignored by their peers. It can lead to feelings of loneliness, depression, and low self-esteem.

As followers of Christ, we’re called to be inclusive, to welcome everyone regardless of their differences, just as Jesus did. This means speaking out against social exclusion and making an effort to include those who are often left out.

Next time you see someone being excluded, extend a hand of friendship. Remember the words of Jesus: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40)

5) Emotional bullying

Emotional bullying is a silent killer, often going unnoticed. It’s a form of bullying that hits deep, leaving invisible scars on the heart and soul.

It involves tactics like manipulation, humiliation, or belittling to undermine and hurt someone emotionally. The pain it causes can lead to severe emotional distress and mental health issues.

As Christians, we are called to “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” (Romans 12:15) We are called to empathize with those suffering emotionally and provide a safe haven for them.

Speaking out against emotional bullying means advocating for emotional health, understanding, and empathy. It’s about standing by those who are hurting and helping them find the strength to heal.

In a world that can often be cruel, let’s be the carriers of God’s love and compassion. Let’s be the ones to say, “You matter. You’re not alone.”

6) Religious bullying

I remember the first time I was mocked for my faith. It was in high school, when my lunchroom tablemates discovered I prayed before eating. The laughter and teasing that followed left me feeling small and out of place.

Religious bullying involves disrespecting or belittling someone because of their religious beliefs or practices. It’s a form of bullying that strikes at the very core of an individual’s identity.

As Christians, we are taught to respect the beliefs of others, even if they differ from our own. The Bible says, “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” (Luke 6:31)

Speaking out against religious bullying means standing up for freedom of religion and mutual respect. It’s about promoting a culture where everyone can freely express their faith without fear of ridicule or harm.

Remember, our faith calls us to love and respect all people, irrespective of their beliefs. So let’s use our voices to create an environment of acceptance and mutual respect.

7) Sexual bullying

Sexual bullying is a particularly harmful form of bullying that involves unwanted sexual comments, advances, or behaviors. It can cause deep emotional scars and lead to feelings of shame and fear.

In the Bible, we see Jesus treating all individuals, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation, with dignity and respect. We are called to do the same.

Speaking out against sexual bullying is about upholding the dignity of every individual and promoting respect in all interactions. It’s about creating a safe environment where everyone is treated with the respect they deserve.

Let’s not stand by silently when we see sexual bullying occur. Instead, let’s stand up for those affected and work towards creating a world where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

8) Disability bullying

It’s heartbreaking to see someone judged or ridiculed based on their physical or mental abilities. Disability bullying involves picking on individuals because of their disabilities – making them feel less than they are.

As Christians, we believe that every individual is uniquely created in the image of God, with their own set of gifts and abilities. No one should be defined by their disability or made to feel inferior because of it.

Speaking out against disability bullying is crucial. It’s about seeing people for who they truly are – children of God, deserving of love, respect, and equality. It’s about shattering stereotypes and promoting a culture of acceptance and inclusion.

Remember, each one of us is fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). Let’s celebrate this diversity and ensure that each person is treated with the dignity they deserve.

Final thoughts: Love is the answer

At the heart of Jesus’ teachings is the command to love one another, a doctrine that permeates every aspect of our lives as Christians.

This command extends beyond just being kind to those we meet. It calls us to actively stand against injustice, to defend those who are mistreated, and to speak up for those who have no voice.

Bullying, in all its forms, is a manifestation of hate and fear. It’s an issue that affects individuals across all walks of life, leaving deep scars that often take a lifetime to heal.

Speaking against bullying isn’t just about pointing out the wrong; it’s about standing up for love, respect, and dignity. It’s about showing compassion to those who are hurting and working towards a world where everyone feels safe and valued.

As we reflect on these forms of bullying, let’s remember the words of Jesus: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34)

In the face of bullying, let love be our response. For as we stand up against bullying, we stand up for love, and in doing so, we reflect the very heart of Christ.