A devotional for kids who are bullied begins with a strong promise. Psalm 9:9 (ESV) says, “The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.” If someone is hurting you at school or online, God sees it, he cares, and he wants you safe.
Key Verse
“The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.” (Psalm 9:9, ESV)
God Sees You
Being bullied can make you feel invisible or worthless. Mean words, being left out, pushing, or cruel posts online hurt deeply. You might feel embarrassed or scared to tell anyone.
God sees what is happening. He is not on the side of the bully. Scripture says again and again that he cares for people who are treated unfairly.
A Stronghold
A stronghold is a strong tower or fortress, a safe place when enemies attack. God calls himself a stronghold for the oppressed. That means you can run to him in prayer anytime and tell him everything.
You can also know that what bullies say about you is not true. God made you, loves you, and calls you valuable.
Tell a Trusted Adult
God often protects us through people. Please tell a parent, teacher, school counselor, or another trusted adult what is happening. Telling is not tattling. It is asking for help to stay safe. If the first adult does not help, keep telling until someone does.
If you ever feel like hurting yourself or feel hopeless, tell an adult right away, or call or text 988 in the US. You matter.
For Parents and Teachers
Take bullying seriously. Listen calmly, believe kids, document what happened, and work with the school. Help children know their worth in Christ and that they are not to blame.
Responding Like Jesus
Jesus was mocked and mistreated too. He did not hate his enemies, but he also did not pretend wrong was right. You can refuse to fight back with cruelty, stay near friends, and get help, all at the same time.
God may also use you to stand with someone else who is being bullied. A kind word or simply sitting with them can make a big difference.
Parents, teachers, and friends, watch for quiet signs that a child is being hurt, such as changes in sleep, mood, or wanting to skip school. Listen without rushing to fix, and take their words seriously. Your attention can be a refuge.
Today, Try This
If you are being bullied, tell one trusted adult today. If you are not, look for a student who seems alone at school this week and be kind to them.
Reflection Question
Who is a trusted adult you can talk to when something at school is hurting you?
Prayer
Lord, you are a stronghold for the oppressed. Be my safe place. Protect me from people who want to hurt me, give me courage to ask for help, and remind me that I am loved by you. Help me be kind to others who are hurting. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Psalm 9:9 mean?
Psalm 9:9 (ESV) teaches that God is a strong refuge for those who are oppressed or in trouble. He sees injustice and protects his people.
What does the Bible say about bullying?
Scripture condemns cruelty and oppression, calls believers to protect the vulnerable, and promises that God cares for those who are mistreated.
What should a child do if they are bullied?
Tell a trusted adult right away, stay near friends, avoid retaliating with cruelty, save evidence of online bullying, and keep asking for help until it stops.
Keep Reading
- Explore more: Bible verses about strength
- Read more daily devotionals
- The narrow way: what the narrow gate means (Matthew 7:13-14)
- Related: The Lord Is My Light Devotional
- Related: First Day of School Devotional
- Bible Verses About Fear