How Christians Should Deal With Bullying: Is There a Difference Between Being a Bully and Being Proactive?

How Christians should deal with bullying depends to some degree upon their basic understanding of the principles and practices of true Christianity. At the same time, one might ask if there is a difference between being a bully and being proactive?

Being proactive against bullying may be perceived by others as being a bully, even when it is based upon an interpretation of Christian principles.

What is a bully?

A bully is someone who is unreasonably aggressive and abusive toward others. He or she may oppress or hurt those who are not willing or able to protect or defend themselves.

Bullying is recognized as an inappropriate form of social control and deemed as a negative and destructive behavior. Thus, more and more people are taking a proactive stand against bullies and bullying, acknowledging the reality that bullying of others, at any time, in any place or for any reason, is wrong. It is being frowned upon more and more by people everywhere, as it is deemed to be unacceptable, regardless of how, why, when or where it takes place in society.

The incidence of bullying, even in Christian circles remains relatively high, with many cases of bullying still going unreported to authorities. It is a phenomenon that continues to happen in homes, schools, recreation centers and on the street. Much of the bullying goes unnoticed. Many times, those who are afraid of being oppressed will attempt to ignore or to suppress what is happening.

Anywhere there are people there may be strong, abusive and overly aggressive people, who prey on others, particularly the younger, weaker and smaller in stature, as a way to achieve personal gain. It may also be a power play or some form of mind control.

Bullying continues to affect the lives of hundred of children and teens of all ages, in an adverse manner. It also happens among adults and occurs in every nation of the world. The disabled, handicapped, injured or mentally challenged are bullied by others, because they are vulnerable.

Seniors are not exempt being bullied by others or even from bullying others.

Those who speak out against bullying or other kinds of negative behavior or unacceptable lifestyles, are proactive. They are likely to be true Christians, while those who do the bullying may not be Christians, other than in name only. Proactive people will take positive, constructive action in many different ways or areas of life that lead to changes for the better in the lives of human beings, everywhere. They often speak out against bullies and the practice of bullying others.

Proactive people are on the way up, while bullies are on their way out the door, even in Christian circles. Proactive people will continue to speak out against bullying and other worthy causes because they love and respect people.

Is there a difference between being a bully and being proactive?

Yes, there is a difference and that difference is in terms of the love of God and one another. Love is the difference.