Revenge is a natural human reaction when we feel wronged, but the Bible encourages Christians to respond differently. Scripture consistently teaches that vengeance belongs to God, urging believers to let go of anger and seek forgiveness instead.
Revenge Bible verses guide us away from retaliation and toward love, peace, and trust in God’s justice. For Christians, these verses offer powerful lessons on humility and faith, reminding us that God will deal with wrongdoers in His own time. By choosing mercy over revenge, we reflect Christ’s love and allow space for healing and reconciliation, trusting that God’s justice is perfect.
Revenge Bible Verses
1. Romans 12:19
Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
In this verse, Paul instructs believers to refrain from seeking personal revenge. Instead of lashing out or plotting vengeance, we are encouraged to leave justice in God’s hands. He alone has the authority to repay wrongs, and His judgement is always fair and just. When we trust Him with our hurts, we allow divine justice to take its course rather than allowing bitterness to consume us.
God’s timing is perfect, and His vengeance comes from a place of righteousness, not an emotional reaction. By choosing not to avenge ourselves, we can break the cycle of harm and let go of the need for retaliation. It is an act of faith, trusting that God sees every injustice and will handle it in a way that brings ultimate peace and resolution.
2. Proverbs 20:22
Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the Lord, and he shall save thee.
This proverb teaches us to resist the natural impulse to repay evil with evil. Revenge often seems like the quickest way to make things right, but the Bible reminds us to take a different path. Rather than taking matters into our own hands, we are encouraged to wait for God’s salvation. His intervention in our lives is more effective than any retaliation we could devise.
Patience in the face of wrongdoings is a sign of trust in God’s ability to work out justice. When we act out of anger or revenge, we may cause more harm than good. Waiting on the Lord not only shows faith but also opens the door to healing, peace, and the possibility of reconciliation.
3. Matthew 5:39
But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
In this verse, Jesus introduces a radical approach to dealing with the personal offence. Rather than retaliating when someone harms us, He instructs us to offer the other cheek, a symbol of non-retaliation. This teaching goes beyond simple forgiveness—it challenges the idea of seeking justice for ourselves and highlights the power of responding to violence with peace.
Turning the other cheek is not about passivity or weakness, but about showing strength in restraint. By not retaliating, we rise above the cycle of revenge, reflecting God’s grace and mercy. It is a powerful reminder that true justice comes from God, not from our actions.
4. Leviticus 19:18
Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord.
This commandment from Leviticus urges us to avoid holding grudges and seeking revenge. Instead, we are called to love our neighbours as ourselves, which includes forgiving those who have wronged us. The Lord emphasises love as the highest moral duty, surpassing the human desire for retribution.
When we choose to love rather than avenge, we align ourselves with God’s character. Revenge feeds bitterness and division, while love brings unity and healing. Loving our neighbours as ourselves means we seek their good, even when they have wronged us, trusting that God will address any injustice.
5. 1 Peter 3:9
Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.
Peter encourages believers to break the cycle of evil by responding to it with blessings instead of retaliation. By choosing kindness in the face of hostility, we reflect Christ’s example and fulfil our calling as His followers. We are not to repay insults with insults but rather to act in a way that invites God’s blessings.
Responding with a blessing may seem counterintuitive, but it is a powerful testimony to God’s transforming love. When we refuse to engage in revenge or anger, we demonstrate a strength that can change hearts and situations. God promises that those who act in this way will inherit His blessings, both in this life and beyond.
6. Luke 6:27-28
But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.
Jesus calls for a radical approach to dealing with enemies. Instead of seeking revenge or harbouring resentment, we are instructed to love, bless, and pray for those who mistreat us. This response challenges our natural instincts and reflects the grace and mercy of God, who loves even those who oppose Him.
By choosing to love our enemies, we allow God’s love to work through us. It is a path that leads to inner peace and breaks the cycle of hatred and revenge. Though difficult, this command helps us to rise above the actions of others and reflects the heart of Christ, who prayed for His enemies even in the face of crucifixion.
7. Deuteronomy 32:35
To me belongeth vengeance and recompence; their foot shall slide in due time: for the day of their calamity is at hand, and the things that shall come upon them make haste.
God asserts that vengeance belongs to Him alone. He reassures us that those who do wrong will face consequences in His time. While it may seem like the wicked prosper without consequence, God’s justice is inevitable, and His timing is perfect.
This verse serves as a reminder to trust God’s timing rather than rushing to take matters into our own hands. We can rest in the knowledge that God sees all and will repay according to His righteous judgement. By leaving vengeance to Him, we free ourselves from the burden of bitterness and trust in His ultimate plan.
8. Proverbs 24:29
Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.
This proverb advises against repaying harm with harm. The instinct to retaliate is strong, but God calls us to a higher standard. Seeking revenge only perpetuates a cycle of wrongdoing, while forgiveness and forbearance allow us to break free from that destructive loop.
God calls us to rise above personal vengeance, trusting Him to deal justly with all people. When we refuse to repay harm with harm, we open the door to healing and restoration. Vengeance may seem satisfying in the short term, but God’s way leads to lasting peace.
9. James 1:20
For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
James reminds us that human anger and wrath do not produce God’s righteousness. When we seek revenge out of anger, we often act impulsively and unjustly. God’s ways are higher, and His justice is always tempered with mercy and grace.
Anger can cloud our judgement and lead us down a path of sin. Instead of seeking revenge, we should seek to align our hearts with God’s righteousness, allowing Him to handle justice. By trusting God’s process, we can avoid the pitfalls of acting out in anger and experience the peace that comes from letting go.
10. 1 Thessalonians 5:15
See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.
Paul instructs believers to avoid the natural inclination to repay evil with evil. Instead, we are called to pursue goodness in all our interactions. This reflects the heart of Christ, who repaid evil with love and grace, even in the face of great suffering.
When we follow good rather than seek revenge, we bring light into dark situations. Our actions can inspire change and promote peace. By choosing good, we mirror God’s character and invite His presence into our lives, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
11. Matthew 5:44
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.
Jesus calls us to a higher standard of love, one that extends even to our enemies. Instead of seeking revenge or harbouring hatred, He commands us to bless, do good, and pray for those who mistreat us. This teaching challenges the human desire for retaliation, offering a path of peace and transformation.
By loving our enemies, we reflect the character of Christ, who prayed for His persecutors while on the cross. This kind of love has the power to break cycles of revenge and promote reconciliation. When we choose love over vengeance, we open ourselves up to God’s grace, which can change both our hearts and the hearts of those who wrong us.
12. 1 Samuel 24:12
The Lord judge between me and thee, and the Lord avenge me of thee: but mine hand shall not be upon thee.
David, in his encounter with Saul, refuses to take personal revenge, despite having the opportunity. Instead, he entrusts the situation to the Lord, allowing Him to be the judge and avenger. This act of restraint demonstrates David’s faith in God’s justice rather than his own ability to right the wrongs done to him.
David’s example teaches us that even when we feel justified in seeking revenge, it is better to leave judgement in God’s hands. His justice is perfect, and by choosing restraint, we allow God to work in ways that might bring greater peace and resolution than any revenge could. This trust in God’s sovereignty frees us from the burden of vengeance.
13. Proverbs 25:21-22
If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink: For thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head, and the Lord shall reward thee.
This proverb encourages us to respond to our enemies with kindness rather than revenge. By meeting their needs, we not only disarm hostility but also invite God’s blessing upon our lives. The image of heaping coals of fire suggests that our kindness might lead to the softening of their hearts, provoking reflection and, potentially, repentance.
Kindness in the face of hostility is a powerful testimony of God’s love. It takes strength to act with compassion toward those who have wronged us, but it is a path that leads to spiritual rewards. By trusting God to handle justice, we leave room for reconciliation and healing, both for ourselves and for our enemies.
14. Exodus 14:14
The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.
This verse is a powerful reminder that God fights on behalf of His people. When we face injustice or wrongs, our first instinct may be to strike back, but God commands us to hold our peace and trust Him to fight our battles. His justice is far greater than anything we can achieve through revenge.
When we allow God to fight for us, we release the anger and frustration that revenge brings. He sees every injustice and promises to defend those who trust in Him. This assurance brings peace, knowing that God is in control and will bring about justice in His perfect time and way.
15. Genesis 50:20
But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.
Joseph’s words to his brothers after they sold him into slavery reveal a profound truth about God’s sovereignty. Even when others intend harm, God can turn those circumstances for good. Instead of seeking revenge, Joseph recognises that God used the evil done to him to bring about a greater purpose.
Joseph’s forgiveness of his brothers serves as a powerful example of trusting in God’s plan, even when wronged. By letting go of vengeance, we open ourselves to seeing how God can use our pain for a greater good. His purposes are far beyond our understanding, and He can turn even the darkest situations into something that brings life and redemption.
16. Ephesians 4:31-32
Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.
Paul instructs believers to put away bitterness and wrath, replacing them with kindness and forgiveness. Revenge thrives on anger and bitterness, but Paul calls us to be tender-hearted, offering forgiveness as God has forgiven us. The comparison to God’s forgiveness shows that we are called to forgive even when it is undeserved.
Choosing kindness over revenge brings healing not only to ourselves but also to our relationships. When we forgive as God forgave us, we reflect His love and grace in a powerful way. Revenge may seem justified, but forgiveness opens the door to reconciliation and peace, allowing God to work in the hearts of all involved.
17. Matthew 6:14-15
For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Jesus emphasises the importance of forgiveness in this passage. Our willingness to forgive others is directly connected to our relationship with God. When we refuse to forgive and seek revenge instead, we block the flow of God’s forgiveness in our own lives. His forgiveness is a gift, and we are called to extend that same grace to others.
Revenge keeps us trapped in bitterness, but forgiveness releases both ourselves and the offender from the cycle of hurt. By choosing to forgive, we align ourselves with God’s heart and invite His grace to work through us. In doing so, we open ourselves up to experiencing the fullness of His forgiveness and peace.
18. Ecclesiastes 7:9
Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.
This verse from Ecclesiastes warns against acting hastily in anger. Revenge is often born from quick, emotional reactions, but the Bible advises against letting anger drive our decisions. Anger, when not controlled, resides in the hearts of fools, leading them down a path of destruction.
The wisdom in this verse calls for patience and reflection rather than impulsive revenge. When we take time to cool our anger, we can make better decisions that align with God’s will. Acting in anger often leads to regret, but responding with patience allows God to work through the situation, bringing peace instead of further conflict.
19. Colossians 3:13
Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
Paul encourages believers to practise forbearance and forgiveness in their relationships. Revenge is the opposite of forbearance; it seeks to repay wrongs instead of bearing with them. Christ’s example of forgiveness sets the standard, reminding us that we are called to forgive others just as He forgave us.
Forgiveness requires humility and grace, qualities that are absent when we seek revenge. By choosing to forgive, we release the hold that bitterness and anger have on our hearts. Christ’s forgiveness of our sins was undeserved, yet He freely gave it. We are called to follow His example, offering forgiveness rather than seeking revenge.
20. 1 Corinthians 13:5
Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil.
In this passage about love, Paul describes the qualities of true, godly love. Love does not seek its own way or revenge, nor is it easily provoked. It refuses to dwell on wrongs done to it, instead choosing to think no evil. This love is patient, kind, and forgiving, even in the face of mistreatment.
Revenge is born from a heart that seeks its own interests, but love places others above oneself. When we choose to respond in love rather than revenge, we reflect God’s nature and bring His peace into our relationships. Love’s refusal to seek revenge transforms hearts and situations, leading to healing and reconciliation.
21. Romans 12:20
Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
Paul echoes the teaching from Proverbs, encouraging kindness toward enemies rather than revenge. By meeting their needs, we demonstrate God’s love in a way that can convict them of their wrongs. The metaphor of heaping coals of fire on their heads implies that our kindness might lead them to repentance and change.
Kindness can often have a more powerful impact than any act of revenge. When we treat our enemies with care and compassion, we show that God’s way is higher than the human instinct to retaliate. This path of love not only transforms us but has the potential to soften the hearts of those who oppose us, creating an opportunity for reconciliation.
22. Luke 6:27-28
But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.
Jesus commands His followers to love their enemies and to respond to hatred with goodness, blessing, and prayer. This teaching is radical because it challenges the natural human desire for revenge. Instead of retaliating, Jesus calls us to reflect His love and grace, even in the face of mistreatment.
Responding to enemies with love takes great strength and reliance on God. When we choose this path, we not only resist revenge but also leave room for God to work in their hearts. Our love for enemies reflects the transformative power of Christ’s love, which seeks not to destroy but to redeem. By following His example, we demonstrate the heart of the gospel.
23. Deuteronomy 32:35
To me belongeth vengeance, and recompence; their foot shall slide in due time: for the day of their calamity is at hand, and the things that shall come upon them make haste.
In this verse, God declares that vengeance belongs to Him alone. He is the one who will repay those who do wrong, in His perfect timing. This passage reminds us that it is not our place to seek revenge, but rather to trust that God will handle justice in the end.
The assurance that God will repay wrongs allows us to let go of the desire for revenge. When we trust in His justice, we free ourselves from the bitterness and anger that comes with seeking vengeance. God’s timing and ways are perfect, and He will bring about justice far better than we ever could on our own.
24. Proverbs 20:22
Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the Lord, and he shall save thee.
This proverb warns against taking matters of revenge into our own hands. Instead of seeking to repay evil with evil, we are called to wait on the Lord. God promises to save us and bring justice in His own time. By waiting on Him, we demonstrate faith in His sovereignty and trust in His perfect plan.
Revenge often brings temporary satisfaction, but it does not bring lasting peace. When we wait on God instead of taking vengeance into our hands, we allow Him to work in ways we may not understand. His justice is true and righteous, and by trusting in Him, we are saved from the cycle of revenge and bitterness.
25. Leviticus 19:18
Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord.
This command from Leviticus emphasises the importance of not seeking revenge or holding grudges. Instead, we are called to love our neighbours as ourselves. This teaching echoes throughout scripture, reminding us that love, not vengeance, should govern our relationships with others.
Loving others as ourselves is a direct reflection of God’s love for us. When we let go of revenge and choose love, we not only obey God’s command but also build healthier and more peaceful communities. Revenge fosters division, but love promotes unity and understanding, leading to a society that mirrors God’s kingdom.
26. 1 Peter 3:9
Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.
Peter encourages believers not to repay evil with evil but to respond with blessings instead. This counter-cultural approach reflects the heart of the gospel, where forgiveness and love replace retaliation. Peter reminds us that by blessing others, even those who wrong us, we are walking in the path that God has called us to, and we will inherit His blessings.
Choosing to bless rather than curse is a powerful act of faith. It demonstrates trust in God’s justice and His ability to work in the lives of those who wrong us. When we refuse to engage in the cycle of revenge, we position ourselves to receive God’s blessings and to be a light to the world around us.
27. Romans 12:14
Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
Paul’s instruction to bless those who persecute us is a profound call to resist revenge. Instead of cursing those who cause us harm, we are to speak blessings over them. This teaching challenges the natural inclination to strike back but aligns us with the heart of God, who desires reconciliation over retribution.
When we bless those who persecute us, we take on the character of Christ, who Himself prayed for His enemies on the cross. Revenge keeps us in a cycle of bitterness, but blessing opens the door for God’s grace to work in both our hearts and the hearts of our persecutors. It is a path that leads to peace and restoration, both for ourselves and for others.
28. Proverbs 24:29
Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.
This proverb warns against the temptation to repay evil with evil. The desire to do to others what they have done to us is natural, but the Bible calls us to a higher standard. Instead of seeking revenge, we are to trust in God’s justice and respond with integrity.
Revenge only continues the cycle of harm, but when we choose to act differently, we break that cycle. God’s way calls for forgiveness and patience, trusting that He will deal with the wrongs committed against us. By choosing not to repay evil with evil, we reflect God’s grace and allow room for healing and peace.
29. Isaiah 54:17
No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord.
This powerful verse reassures God’s people that no weapon formed against them will succeed. Instead of taking revenge when wronged, we are reminded that God is our defender. He will condemn those who rise against us, and our righteousness comes from Him, not from our own actions of retaliation.
When we trust in God’s protection, we no longer feel the need to seek revenge. His promise to defend us allows us to focus on living righteously and loving others, even in the face of opposition. Revenge may offer temporary satisfaction, but trusting in God’s defence offers lasting peace and victory.
30. James 1:19-20
Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
James instructs believers to be slow to anger, reminding us that human wrath does not produce the righteousness that God desires. Revenge is often driven by wrath, but James calls us to respond with patience and understanding instead. This wisdom leads to a life that reflects God’s righteousness rather than human anger.
When we are slow to wrath, we give space for God’s justice to prevail. Revenge may feel justified in the moment, but it ultimately leads us away from the righteousness that God calls us to. By being patient and measured in our responses, we allow God’s grace to work through us, bringing peace instead of conflict.
Conclusion
Revenge Bible verses serve as a vital reminder for Christians to resist the urge to retaliate and instead trust in God’s justice. These scriptures guide believers to respond with grace, patience, and love, even in mistreatment. Seeking revenge only perpetuates bitterness, while choosing forgiveness and letting go leads to inner peace and spiritual growth.
Christians are called to follow Christ’s example, extending mercy rather than vengeance and trusting that God will handle justice perfectly. Embracing these teachings allows us to reflect on the heart of the gospel and foster healing in our relationships.