No matter what age- being bullied, teased and harassed on a constant basis can have lasting effects. Indicators range from unexplained injuries, changes in eating habits, difficulty sleeping and having nightmares, declining grades and loss of interest, decreased self-esteem and even self-destructive behaviors that can lead to suicide. Bullying is real: statistics show over 3.2 million students are victims of bullying each year. Because your child is a “Child of the King” the enemy will use people and situations to destroy their faith and keep them unfocused on the things of God. Your young one must know they are a “child of destiny” and have great purpose within.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to talk. Encourage them and strengthen them so they can be VICTORIOUS in their Walk with God and in defeating that “bullying” enemy. Encourage your child to do the following:
Seek wisdom from GOD on how to deal with it. Seeking God when being bullied allows for right decisions to be made with no regrets.
Know that GOD fights all our battles. When being bullied, it’s easy for one to become defensive and fight back. Your child needs to free themselves from any bitterness, revenge or need to retaliate. Instead, instill in them the WWJD Mindset: “What would Jesus do?” Simply put, Jesus would forgive them… and pray for them.
Take action when prompted by the Holy Spirit. God is always present and God knows all. God has given them the power of the Holy Spirit to triumph. “We are more than conquerors through him who loved us” (Romans 8:37). Situations like this bring us ever closer to God and strengthen our relationship with Him. Children must cultivate a closeness with God in prayer and in the Word so God will speak to them in making the right decisions at the right time.
Most importantly, share powerful Scriptures with them like Isaiah 54:17 “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment the Lord shall condemn” that they can memorize. When put in a situation they can’t handle on their own, it will come to mind.
The battle is the Lord’s. God is on their side.