BULL’Y, n. A noisy, blustering overbearing fellow, more distinguished for insolence and empty menaces, than for courage, and disposed to provoke quarrels.
A bully is just a person who has to hurt others in order to make himself feel better because the bully has no confidence or self esteem in himself. Bullies are just people who don’t have or want peace in their lives! They are an unpeaceful people. They preach grace, yet they show no grace. They are just Users.
Bullies are not a new thing in our world. They have been around for centuries. The Egyptians who enslaved the Israelites were bullies. They were afraid of the Israelites. Many times fear makes a bully.
Exodus 1:8-14
Now there arose a new king over Egypt. He knew nothing about Yosef but said to his people, “Look, the descendants of Isra’el have become a people too numerous and powerful for us. Come, let’s use wisdom in dealing with them. Otherwise, they’ll continue to multiply; and in the event of war they might ally themselves with our enemies, fight against us and leave the land altogether.” So they put slavemasters over them to oppress them with forced labor, and they built for Pharaoh the storage cities of Pitom and Ra’amses. But the more the Egyptians oppressed them, the more they multiplied and expanded, until the Egyptians came to dread the people of Isra’el and worked them relentlessly, making their lives bitter with hard labor -digging clay, making bricks, all kinds of field work; and in all this toil they were shown no mercy.
Pharaoh was afraid of the Israelites, and he thought that by bullying them they would be afraid of him. Satan often uses fear as his main attack. Fear is a powerful thing, and it is very important to not be fearful.
2 Timothy 1:7
For God gave us a Spirit who produces not timidity, but power, love and self-discipline.
Anyone who oppresses you is a bully, and it is wrong. Anyone who pushes you to do what they want, whether physically, emotionally or mentally is a bully. Bullies are so manipulative, because they use their strength to get others to do what they want. They give the bullied no choice but to do what they want.
I have never been physically bullied, but our family has been virtually bullied on the internet many times. Like IRL bullies, virtual bullies try to make you do what they want, by gossiping about you, turning friends against you, going to your friends and befriending them, by hacking your websites and stalking you. They try to make you do their will, because you can’t do anything about it. They make you be the bigger person because they know you won’t go do the things they do or tell the world about them. You get stuck between a rock and a hard place; that is exactly where they want you.
But, even Jesus was bullied, so we can take the comfort that we can suffer through the same thing as Christ did even though it is hard to be bullied. I believe that bullying in a way is persecution and Jesus said:
John 15:20
Remember what I told you, `A slave is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you too; if they kept my word, they will keep yours too.
If Jesus was bullied and persecuted, you will be too! We are so blessed to have Jesus come to earth to endure these things for us and to tell us what we can do when they happen to us! Jesus also told us what to do to do those bully us:
Luke 6:27-31
Nevertheless, to you who are listening, what I say is this: “Love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.
“If someone hits you on one cheek, offer the other too; if someone takes your coat, let him have your shirt as well.
“If someone asks you for something, give it to him; if someone takes what belongs to you, don’t demand it back.
“Treat other people as you would like them to treat you.
Matthew 5:38-42
“You have heard that our fathers were told, `Eye for eye and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you not to stand up against someone who does you wrong. On the contrary, if someone hits you on the right cheek, let him hit you on the left cheek too!
If someone wants to sue you for your shirt, let him have your coat as well!
And if a soldier forces you to carry his pack for one mile, carry it for two!
When someone asks you for something, give it to him; when someone wants to borrow something from you, lend it to him.
We are to love the bullies, and do good to them, bless them, and pray for them! Believe me, that is no easy task. There are days when I just want to come out and say what REALLY happened and want everyone to know they can’t trust those persons, but that is where we just leave the situation to God and let Him handle it. He is the righteous judge and will repay the deeds that are done.
All we have to do is what those verses, tell us: turn your cheek, give them your shirt, go the extra mile! So love those who bully, do good to them when they are horrible to you, bless them when they curse you and most importantly pray for them. Show Jesus to your bullies, even those bullies who are Christians, by doing those things because Jesus is the only one who can change them and prayer works!
Those who bully are spiteful and hateful! Love and kindness do not treat others like that. Jesus is love and kindness and if you don’t have Him in your life, you can’t love and show kindness to people and all you can do is be spiteful and hateful!
So remember to love those that bully you and by doing that you are showing Jesus to them! THAT is the mission of a Christian! To show the love of Christ to those who know Him not!
©AmandaDixon2009
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Tags: 2 Timothy 1:7, A slave is not greater than his master., backbiting, bullied, bullies, bully, Christians, Do good to those who hate you bless those who curse you pray for those who mistreat you., editorial, fake friends, For God gave us a Spirit who produces not timidity but power love and self-discipline., friends, friendship, gossiping, grace, hateful, If they persecuted me they will persecute you too, Israelites, Jesus, John 15:20, kindness, love, Love your enemies!, Luke 6:27-31, Matthew 5:38-42, online, online friends, oppression, persecuted, persecution, Pharaoh, real friends, righteous judge, spiteful, The Users, turn the other cheek, Users, Webster's dictionary
September 12th, 2009 at 4:57 pm
OH (((((Amanda and fam)))))! I know y’all are strong in the LORD and that He us upon the throne, but I also know this can still be hurtful, and I am so sorry y’all are experiencing this AGAIN. I appreciate your thoughts on this, because it helped me see a stressful family situation in which I am bullied and had not recognized it as thus. May the grace of the LORD be multiplied to our spirits!!!! (((((HUGS))))) sandi
(((((HUGS))))) sandi´s last blog ..Pics of my latest crochet projects….
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September 12th, 2009 at 5:21 pm
I’m very glad that I published this now.
Especially since you apparently needed it. HUGS!
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September 12th, 2009 at 4:58 pm
Gosh Amanda, I’m so sorry that your family is going through this
You and your family are in my prayers. I was bullied physically and emotionally by people at school and even my parents, so I know how horrible it is.
Jade´s last blog ..Prayer Request…
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September 12th, 2009 at 5:09 pm
Sorry bout that. Jesus says blessed are ye when they persecute you for his name’s sake, for great is your reward. Hugs to you and your dear family.
jenny´s last blog ..Apples!
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September 12th, 2009 at 5:19 pm
I’m so sorry that you are going through this right now, but like you said, we are so blessed that Jesus has shown us how to handle these things. Just know that your true friends love you so-so-so-much! I’m praying for you and your family. I know God has a plan and this is just part of it.
Love you!
~Nikki
Nikki´s last blog ..Goodness! What a Year!
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September 12th, 2009 at 5:20 pm
thank you sweet friend!
HUGS!
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September 12th, 2009 at 6:10 pm
“The axe cuts the sandal tree, yet the sandal tree perfumes the axe.” You are so right Amanda, we ought never to let another’s behavior dictate our own. We just need to keep our heart open and center in feelings of love what ever happens. Bullies only win when they can take that away from you.
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September 12th, 2009 at 6:15 pm
Great post. And so true, this happens a lot! If only we could all get along and love one another truly and not be hurtful to others!
God Bless!!
Kinsey
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September 12th, 2009 at 6:28 pm
Oh, I’m sorry Amanda and Dixon family!
No fun at all. Good post came out of it though and has helped others already. 
Praying that this situation will be solved sooner than later.
*HUGS*
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September 12th, 2009 at 6:42 pm
Hey Amanda!
I wish I could say I know how you feel! I’m sure that this is hard to deal with. I’d feel the same way, as in wanting to just tell everyone who to trust and what-not…but it’s something we just have to leave up to God, understand that He’s in control and knows what’s going on.
Prayers and hugs!
~ Kira
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September 12th, 2009 at 6:50 pm
Hi Sweetie! Well, I just do not understand people who feel as if they have some special “right” to persecute others, but, as the Word says, we will know trials and tribulations…but, it also says, our Father in Heaven is watching over us, and will protect us from evil…So, pray and watch, and watch and pray, lifting the name of those who bully you before the Father…for truly, they need prayer!
We all make mistakes, but the key to remember is once you know you have made one, repent, and turn from the sin, and not continue to commit it…perhaps if we ALL pray for them, the light bulb will click on, and they will realize what they are doing…if not, be like Jesus told His disciples, wipe the dust from your feet, and let them go…amen?
God bless you, sweet girl!
bev
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September 12th, 2009 at 7:04 pm
Amanda, I’m posting this on my facebook page. I want you to know that I’m praying for this situation.
The darkness doesn’t comprehend the light. It is Jesus they are presecuting. Remember when Saul was presecuting the christians? Finally when Jesus appeared to him on the road – he said – Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? ME!!!
“Whatsoever you do to the least of one of these my brethren – that you do unto me.” God takes it very personally when His Bride is presecuted.
Jasmine´s last blog ..Gabriella’s Prayer
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September 12th, 2009 at 7:16 pm
This is part of the Psalm that I put on my blog today for Saturday Psalm. I thought of you and your family as I read. I pray for and admire you all for your stand.May the prayers of many lift your family up as you serve the Lord in love. Amen
“9 Destroy, O Lord, divide their tongues;
for I see violence and strife in the city.
10 Day and night they go around it
on its walls,
and iniquity and trouble are within it;
11 ruin is in its midst;
oppression and fraud
do not depart from its marketplace.
12 For it is not an enemy who taunts me—
then I could bear it;
it is not an adversary who deals insolently with me—
then I could hide from him.
13 But it is you, a man, my equal,
my companion, my familiar friend.
14 We used to take sweet counsel together;
within God’s house we walked in the throng.
15 Let death steal over them;
let them go down to Sheol alive;
for evil is in their dwelling place and in their heart.
16 But I call to God,
and the Lord will save me.
17 Evening and morning and at noon
I utter my complaint and moan,
and he hears my voice.
18 He redeems my soul in safety
from the battle that I wage,
for many are arrayed against me.
19 God will give ear and humble them,
he who is enthroned from of old, Selah
because they do not change
and do not fear God.
20 My companion [2] stretched out his hand against his friends;
he violated his covenant.
21 His speech was smooth as butter,
yet war was in his heart;
his words were softer than oil,
yet they were drawn swords.
22 Cast your burden on the Lord,
and he will sustain you;
he will never permit
the righteous to be moved.”
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September 12th, 2009 at 8:37 pm
(((HUGS))) Amanda, I am sorry that you and your family have had to go through this trial. Keep looking to the True One, and He will not let you down.
Tami
Tami´s last blog ..No new posts showing up
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September 12th, 2009 at 8:57 pm
Oh, I’m sorry to hear that! I’ll be praying for you all.
It’s in times like this though that our faith can be strengthened the most. Just cast your burdens on the Lord, and he will sustain you! It may not make a shred of sense now, but in time it will. 
*hugs!*
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September 12th, 2009 at 9:01 pm
Bully, bully? Let me at em I’ll pulverize em.
Welcome to the ministry. 
Only those who are trying to accomplish something for the kingdom shall suffer so, count it all joy then when you suffer various trials and tribulations. You have been counted worthy of His kingdom. 
Allen´s last blog ..The Sounds of Autumn
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September 12th, 2009 at 9:10 pm
I’m so sorry to hear that you are your family are going through this! But I am so glad that you are doing the right thing as you go through it! Let Jesus shine through you!
~SeaChel
SeaChel´s last blog ..Crossfire — Kansas
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September 12th, 2009 at 10:02 pm
Sorry to hear about this problem. However, take heart. God is so much bigger than what you are facing. I know He will give you grace and strength to stand with Him. (I’m encouraging myself now!!
God Bless,
Erik B.
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September 12th, 2009 at 10:29 pm
I’m so sorry you and your family are (still) going through this. I’ll be praying for you. Just remember that it has some purpose in the long run (For I know what plans I have in mind for you,’ says ADONAI,’plans for well-being, not for bad things; so that you can have hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11)
YHVH bless you and shalom.
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September 12th, 2009 at 11:13 pm
I will be praying for you and your family…thanks for the post, Amanda : )
Love and HUGS!
Jessica
Jessica´s last blog ..Embroidered Cloth Journal Giveaway
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September 12th, 2009 at 11:17 pm
I’m sorry about the bullies, but you have the right idea… pray for your enemies, keep your eyes on Him.
Theresa´s last blog ..Queen’s View Scotland
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September 12th, 2009 at 11:48 pm
How terrible! I’m sorry that you have to endure this.
Muthering Heights´s last blog ..They May Do It
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September 13th, 2009 at 10:24 am
Aww, I am so sorry for you family! You and Jocelyn are such an encouragement to me on how you handle these problems! I know the Lord will bless you for it! Be strong in the Lord and have courage dear friend! I’ll be praying harder for you dearie! May God help you through this and give you the right words to speak!
Thank you for sharing this. It’s so hard to be kind and loving to those who are opposed to us. Just this past week, my mom received two rather rude comments on her facebook, from ladies at our church! She was just so upset by it. It’s hard to understand why people feel the need to defend their points on difficult subjects and why they can’t just accept you like you accept them.
Blessings!
~Rachel~
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September 13th, 2009 at 3:11 pm
Awww, I am so sorry you and your family have to go trough this!
Like you said, God has called us to love our enemies….It can be extremely difficult at times and I’ll be praying for you guys!! 
Blessings!
Laney
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September 13th, 2009 at 3:19 pm
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Jocelyn 17 Publisher andLisa. Lisa said: RT @Super_Angel: @jacque_dixon: Cyber bullies in the blogosphere? You betcha there are! What do you do? http://superangelsblog.com/?p=2803 [...]
September 13th, 2009 at 5:49 pm
Bringing it down to the Scriptures is really all one can do Amanda. We can’t make people stop doing things they know are wrong. It’s hard not to focus on it, especially when it is a continual thing, but we really have to move on and walk in his ways.
These things will all pass away. Let them live in their perceived glorious moments.
There is a higher purpose, and it will all soon be realized.
Let’s all stand together and encourage each other in the Scriptures!
Love you. I know this broke your heart (again), and I am glad you are a forgiving and loving person and you don’t let this stop you from being a good friend to others.
Mama´s last blog ..Sensational Sunday Links: Quiverfull, Organization, Prayer, Family, Marriage
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September 14th, 2009 at 8:55 am
Bullies are the worst. Sounds like you run across these sorts of people quite a bit. That’s unfortunate. I hope everything works out for you guys.
Ben´s last blog ..Romantic Thoughts — Some Island Poetry
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September 14th, 2009 at 10:21 am
The truth always comes out in the end. It is hard to not let other people’s sin cause US to sin!
Just stick with the Lord and lay it all at His feet. That is all we can really do. And it is more than enough!
Love you,
Marshie
Marshie´s last blog ..Being normal makes me nervous
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September 14th, 2009 at 9:48 pm
as much as it hurts, and I know that it does, we join in his sufferings and are in good company! know that you are loved!
blessings, Penny
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September 16th, 2009 at 11:20 am
I was bullied every day at school from 2nd grade through 4th grade. I even got it at church because my main nemisis was the only other kid in my class at church except when his equally cruel cousin would come. Even when I went to another school I still had to contend with him every Sunday until I was in high school. Then, one night after church, right after we had gotten back from a mission trip, him & his cousin asked if they could talk to me alone. The proceded to appologize & ask my forgiveness for what they had put me through all those years. We became great friends after that. Even though I don’t see them much any more but I now think of them as my friends first & not the bullies I use to know.
Granted, the wounds were still there & affected me years with social anxiety & depression but God healed me from that & I have even come to appreciate that experience for what it taught me, lessons of healing, hurt, pain, empathy to others, humility, &, like you said, persecution, a taste of what Christ must have felt & continues to feel, especially when I do things that hurt Him.
Kristy´s last blog ..Good News: "Hospital chaplain’s free-speech rights restored"
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September 17th, 2009 at 11:14 pm
[...] On Being Bullied [...]
September 20th, 2009 at 6:17 pm
Amanda, I’m so sorry you’re going through this!! Yet as you said, God is sovereign, and He does have a purpose for it. I know it’s hard, though, because I’ve had some similar (though probably not half as awful) things happen to me, and even now I’m wondering if something I said in simple, kind instruction to a friend is being taken as something mean. I pray not, because it would hurt so much to be turned away by this person. If I was at all in the wrong, I pray God will show me, as it’s possible. Yet I told my friend this, too, and she hasn’t responded. We’ll see how that turns out.
I’ll be praying for you!
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October 1st, 2009 at 11:55 am
Thankfully, my situation with my friend has turned out well so far, and I probably should not have mentioned it, though I didn’t give a name.
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October 19th, 2009 at 6:49 am
Amanda,
While I am finding this later (thanks for the post on Facebook), it couldn’t have come at a more opportune time.
I have a bully in my family. He was my best friend, and is my brother. Even as adults there can be bullies.
Thank you for confirming that how I handled a particular situation of bullying this past weekend, was the way Yeshua would have handled it.
I complete agree that it is not easy at all, but we have G-d and Yeshua on our side.
Be blessed.
Stephanie´s last blog ..Faith Is An Exciting Adventure
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October 19th, 2009 at 11:22 pm
Hi Amanda, you may think this strange, but 100% of the time the reason why we can’t BLESS those who hurt or/and persecute us and pray for them is because of the “law of mind” that operates in our minds (Romans 7:23). It’s again an issue of the heart, not of our will (because we want to bless them and pray for them, but our heart doesn’t let us because of the “law of mind”, or “law of the knowledge” in other versions).
Blessings!
Leandro´s last blog ..Blog paradão
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December 7th, 2009 at 8:54 am
HUGS!!!!!!! Dear Amanda! I’m praying for you guys! I know how difficult this is for your family to go through, again and again! Know there are those who love you guys soo much and care about you!
Keeping you in my prayers!
~Rachel~
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