Self-harm is a complex and deeply painful issue that many individuals struggle with. While the Bible doesn’t directly address self-harm, it offers principles and verses that speak to the underlying emotional pain, desperation, and longing for healing that can lead to this behavior.
Bible verses about self-harm can serve as a source of comfort and hope for those struggling. They remind us of God’s boundless love, His understanding of our suffering, and His desire to restore our brokenness. These verses offer a lifeline to those feeling consumed by darkness, pointing them towards the source of true healing and wholeness.
As we explore these verses, may those who self-harm find a safe space to acknowledge their pain and a pathway toward understanding God’s love and compassion. May these words ignite a spark of hope and a desire to seek help and healing in His presence.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Finding Yourself (with Explanations)
Bible Verses About Self Harm
Psalm 34:18 (NIV)
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
In times of self-harm, Psalm 34:18 offers solace by reminding us that the Lord is near to those who are brokenhearted. This verse speaks to the compassionate nature of God, who extends His saving grace to those overwhelmed by the weight of their own spirits.
The commentary delves into the profound comfort found in God’s closeness during moments of despair. It encourages individuals struggling with self-harm to turn to the One who understands their pain intimately, finding strength and hope in His presence.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV)
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.”
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 emphasizes the sacredness of our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit. The commentary explores the profound truth that our bodies belong to God, bought at a price through Christ’s sacrifice.
This verse serves as a reminder of the inherent worth and purpose each individual possesses. It encourages those struggling with self-harm to view their bodies with reverence and to seek healing in ways that honor God’s design for their well-being.
Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11 assures individuals battling self-harm that God’s plans for them are filled with hope and a future. The commentary delves into the assurance of God’s benevolent intentions, urging those in pain to cling to the promise of a future marked by His goodness.
It emphasizes the transformative power of God’s plans, steering individuals away from self-harm and towards the hope embedded in His purpose for their lives.
Psalm 139:13-14 (NIV)
“For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.”
Psalm 139:13-14 beautifully articulates the divine craftsmanship involved in each person’s creation. The commentary explores the profound truth that individuals are fearfully and wonderfully made by God.
This verse serves as a powerful affirmation of inherent value and worth, providing a counter-narrative to the destructive urges of self-harm. It encourages those struggling to embrace the truth of their unique and purposeful design, seeking healing in the light of God’s intentional creation.
Matthew 11:28 (NIV)
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
In moments of weariness and the burden of self-harm, Matthew 11:28 extends a compassionate invitation from Jesus to find rest in Him. The commentary explores the restorative promise embedded in this verse, emphasizing the freedom and relief available to those who come to Christ with their struggles.
It encourages individuals battling self-harm to seek refuge in the loving arms of Jesus, finding solace and restoration in His unwavering love.
Philippians 4:13 (NIV)
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Philippians 4:13 declares the empowering truth that through Christ, strength is available to overcome challenges, including the struggle with self-harm. The commentary delves into the transformative power of relying on Christ’s strength, encouraging individuals to draw upon His empowerment in moments of weakness.
It emphasizes the potential for victory over self-destructive tendencies through the indwelling strength provided by a relationship with Jesus.
Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10 serves as a source of strength and reassurance for those struggling with self-harm. The commentary explores the comforting promises within this verse, emphasizing God’s unwavering presence, strength, and support.
It encourages individuals to replace fear and dismay with trust in the sustaining power of God’s righteous right hand. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that God is a refuge and a steady anchor in the midst of the storm of self-destructive thoughts and behaviors.
Romans 8:38-39 (NIV)
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
In the depths of despair, Romans 8:38-39 assures individuals that nothing—no circumstance, no force—can separate them from the unwavering love of God. The commentary explores the all-encompassing nature of God’s love, providing a powerful anchor for those wrestling with self-harm.
It encourages a recognition of God’s relentless pursuit, offering a source of strength and security in His boundless love.
Psalm 40:1-3 (NIV)
“I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God.”
Psalm 40:1-3 vividly describes the transformative power of God’s intervention. The commentary explores the imagery of being lifted from a pit of despair, emphasizing God’s ability to set individuals on a firm foundation.
It encourages those struggling with self-harm to wait patiently for God’s deliverance, trusting in the promise of a new song—a melody of praise—replacing the cries of anguish.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV)
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 highlights God as the source of compassion and comfort in times of trouble. The commentary delves into the transformative aspect of receiving comfort from God, fostering an opportunity to extend that comfort to others.
It encourages individuals battling self-harm to embrace the healing comfort of God and, in turn, become vessels of comfort for those facing similar struggles.
Psalm 42:11 (NIV)
“Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”
Psalm 42:11 captures the internal dialogue of a distressed soul, ultimately redirecting focus toward hope in God. The commentary explores the dynamics of soul-searching and the intentional choice to place hope in God.
It encourages those contemplating self-harm to actively redirect their thoughts and emotions, finding solace and praise in the steadfastness of God, their Savior.
1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
1 Peter 5:7 extends a compassionate invitation to cast anxiety onto God, recognizing His care. The commentary explores the significance of surrendering burdens to God, highlighting the intimacy of His concern for each individual.
It encourages those struggling with self-harm to embrace the act of casting their anxieties upon a caring God, finding relief in His understanding and compassion.
Psalm 23:4 (NIV)
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
Psalm 23:4 provides a comforting image of God’s presence in the darkest moments. The commentary delves into the symbolism of God’s rod and staff as sources of guidance and protection.
It encourages individuals battling self-harm to find reassurance in the constant presence and care of God, allowing His comforting guidance to lead them through the darkest valleys.
Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV)
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
Lamentations 3:22-23 celebrates the unwavering love and faithfulness of God. The commentary explores the renewing aspect of God’s compassion, emphasizing the opportunity for a fresh start each morning.
It encourages those struggling with self-harm to embrace the newness of God’s compassion, finding strength in His faithful and compassionate nature.
Psalm 46:1 (NIV)
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
Psalm 46:1 declares God as a constant refuge and source of strength in times of trouble. The commentary explores the significance of seeking refuge in God, emphasizing His unwavering presence as a reliable source of strength.
It encourages those grappling with self-harm to turn to God as their refuge, finding solace and renewed strength in His steadfast support.
John 10:10 (NIV)
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
In John 10:10, Jesus contrasts His life-giving purpose with the destructive intentions of the enemy. The commentary delves into the transformative promise of abundant life through Christ, urging individuals struggling with self-harm to reject the thief’s destructive influence.
It encourages a pursuit of the full and meaningful life offered by Jesus.
James 5:16 (NIV)
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
James 5:16 highlights the healing power of confession and prayer within a community of believers. The commentary explores the importance of openness and mutual support in the journey toward healing.
It encourages those wrestling with self-harm to seek a supportive community, recognizing the effectiveness of fervent and righteous prayers for healing.
Psalm 103:2-4 (NIV)
“Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion.”
Psalm 103:2-4 encourages a soul to remember and praise the Lord for His numerous benefits, including forgiveness, healing, redemption, love, and compassion. The commentary explores the comprehensive nature of God’s care and redemption.
It inspires individuals struggling with self-harm to meditate on the transformative benefits of God’s love and compassion, inviting them into a journey of healing and redemption.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 provides guidance on trusting God fully and submitting to His direction. The commentary delves into the wisdom of surrendering personal understanding to God and the promise of straightened paths through His guidance.
It encourages those navigating the challenges of self-harm to trust God completely, seeking His direction for a more purposeful and straightened journey.
Isaiah 53:4-5 (NIV)
“Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds, we are healed.”
Isaiah 53:4-5 prophesies the redemptive work of Jesus, who bore our pain and brought healing through His sacrifice. The commentary explores the profound connection between Christ’s sacrifice and the healing available to individuals struggling with self-harm.
It emphasizes the transformative power of Christ’s wounds, inviting those in pain to find healing and peace through His redemptive work.
Romans 15:13 (NIV)
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Romans 15:13 is a prayer for the God of hope to fill believers with joy, peace, and overflowing hope through the Holy Spirit. The commentary explores the dynamic connection between trusting in God and experiencing a profound overflow of hope.
It encourages individuals grappling with self-harm to place their trust in the God of hope, anticipating an abundance of joy, peace, and hope through the transformative work of the Holy Spirit.
1 John 1:9 (NIV)
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
In 1 John 1:9, the promise of forgiveness and purification is extended to those who confess their sins. The commentary delves into the transformative nature of God’s faithfulness and justice, emphasizing the cleansing power of His forgiveness.
It encourages individuals struggling with self-harm to embrace the liberating act of confession, trusting in God’s faithfulness to purify them from unrighteousness.
2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV)
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.”
2 Timothy 1:7 speaks to the empowering nature of the Holy Spirit, providing power, love, and self-discipline. The commentary explores the transformative impact of relying on the Spirit’s strength, particularly for those battling self-harm.
It encourages individuals to tap into the Spirit’s power and love, fostering self-discipline in the pursuit of healing and freedom.
Psalm 34:17-18 (NIV)
“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Psalm 34:17-18 paints a vivid picture of God’s responsiveness to the cries of the righteous and His closeness to the brokenhearted. The commentary explores the comforting assurance of God’s deliverance and salvation for those crushed in spirit.
It encourages individuals struggling with self-harm to cry out to the Lord, finding solace in His nearness and experiencing deliverance from troubles.
Romans 12:2 (NIV)
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.”
Romans 12:2 calls for a transformation through the renewal of the mind, aligning with God’s will. The commentary explores the renewing power of a transformed mind, emphasizing the discernment gained in understanding God’s perfect will.
It encourages individuals battling self-harm to engage in a renewing process, allowing their minds to align with God’s perspective for a more purposeful and fulfilling life.
Jeremiah 30:17 (NIV)
“But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds, declares the Lord because you are called an outcast, Zion for whom no one cares.”
Jeremiah 30:17 carries a promise of restoration to health and healing of wounds, affirming God’s care for the outcast. The commentary explores the compassionate nature of God’s declaration, emphasizing His desire to restore and heal those who feel abandoned.
It encourages individuals struggling with self-harm to embrace the hope embedded in God’s promise of restoration and healing.
Psalm 51:10 (NIV)
“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”
Psalm 51:10 reflects a plea for a pure heart and a steadfast spirit, seeking God’s transformative work. The commentary explores the desire for inner purity and steadfastness, acknowledging the need for God’s creative power.
It encourages individuals grappling with self-harm to echo this prayer, inviting God to create purity and steadfastness within them, fostering a renewed and resilient spirit.
Hebrews 4:16 (NIV)
“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
Hebrews 4:16 invites believers to approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, seeking mercy and grace in times of need. The commentary explores the transformative impact of confidently seeking God’s grace, especially for those facing the challenges of self-harm.
It encourages individuals to boldly approach God, trusting in His abundant mercy and grace for healing and assistance in times of vulnerability.
Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV)
“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting.”
Psalm 139:23-24 expresses a deep desire for God’s examination and guidance in the journey of self-discovery. The commentary explores the vulnerability and openness reflected in this prayer, inviting God to search the heart, uncover anxious thoughts, and reveal any offensive ways.
It encourages individuals struggling with self-harm to echo this plea, embracing God’s transformative guidance toward an everlasting way.
Philippians 4:13 (NIV)
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Philippians 4:13 is a declaration of empowerment through Christ’s strength. The commentary delves into the transformative understanding of relying on Christ for strength, especially in overcoming challenges like self-harm.
It encourages individuals to anchor themselves in Christ’s empowering strength, fostering a mindset of resilience and victory over struggles.
Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10 offers a powerful assurance of God’s presence, strength, and support. The commentary explores the comforting nature of God’s promise, emphasizing the strength and help available to those facing challenges, including the struggle with self-harm.
It encourages individuals not to fear but to trust in God’s unwavering presence and the support of His righteous right hand.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Finding Yourself (with Explanations)
What Does the Bible Say About Self Harm?
The Bible does not explicitly address the topic of self-harm, as the term itself is a modern construct.
However, the Bible contains principles and teachings that provide guidance and encouragement for those who may be struggling with behaviors related to self-harm.
God’s Unconditional Love and Compassion
The Bible consistently emphasizes God’s unconditional love and compassion. Scriptures such as Psalm 103:13-14 (NIV) express God’s understanding of human frailty: “As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him; for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust.” This highlights God’s empathy for our struggles and weaknesses.
Seeking Refuge in God
Various Psalms, like Psalm 46:1 (NIV), encourage seeking refuge in God during times of trouble: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” This suggests turning to God as a source of strength and solace when facing difficulties.
The Transformative Power of Renewing the Mind
Romans 12:2 (NIV) encourages believers not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. This principle implies that focusing on God’s truth and allowing one’s mind to be transformed can lead to a healthier perspective and behavior.
A Prayer Against Self Harm
Heavenly Father,
In the midst of my struggles and pain, I come before You, recognizing Your unwavering love and compassion. Lord, I surrender the challenges of self-harm into Your hands, knowing that You are a God of healing and restoration.
Grant me the strength to overcome the urges and emotional turmoil that lead to self-harm. Fill my heart with Your peace that surpasses understanding and replace the darkness with Your comforting light. Help me find solace in Your presence, Lord, and guide me towards healthier coping mechanisms.
Surround me with a supportive community that understands and uplifts me in prayer. I trust in Your transformative power, Father, to renew my mind and lead me away from destructive behaviors. May Your love be a shield against the pain, reminding me of my worth in Your eyes.
Lord, I choose to lean on Your strength, knowing that through You, I can find victory over these struggles. Grant me resilience, courage, and a steadfast spirit. Thank you for being my refuge and source of hope.
In the name of Jesus, I pray.
Amen.