Every person encounters opposition in life—whether it’s betrayal, hatred, or ongoing conflict. The emotional and spiritual toll of dealing with enemies can be heavy. But the Bible doesn’t ignore this struggle. Instead, it offers us wisdom, perspective, and peace in the face of adversity.
From the Old Testament battles to Jesus’ call to love our enemies, the Bible provides direction on how to respond with faith, humility, and courage. These verses about enemies in the Bible show us how to handle conflict without compromising our integrity or faith in God.
Below are 35 Bible verses that give insight into how God sees our struggles with enemies, and how He wants us to respond.
35 Bible Verses About Enemies In The Bible
1. 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;
Explanation:
Jesus gives a radical command to love and pray for our enemies. This challenges us to rise above bitterness and show God’s love, even to those who hurt us.
2. Proverbs 25:21
If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:
Explanation:
Showing kindness to enemies reflects God’s mercy. This act of grace can soften hearts and bring peace.
3. 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.
Explanation:
Paul echoes Proverbs, reminding us that doing good to enemies is not weakness but a powerful act of righteousness.
4. Exodus 23:4
If thou meet thine enemy’s ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again.
Explanation:
Even in practical matters, God commands justice and compassion—even toward those who oppose us.
5. Psalm 23:5
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies…
Explanation:
God shows His favor even when we’re surrounded by enemies. He protects and honors us despite opposition.
6. Psalm 143:12
And of thy mercy cut off mine enemies, and destroy all them that afflict my soul: for I am thy servant.
Explanation:
David seeks God’s justice, showing it’s okay to bring our pain and struggles with enemies to Him in prayer.
7. Psalm 27:2
When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell.
Explanation:
God defends His people. Enemies may rise, but they cannot succeed against those under His protection.
8. Proverbs 16:7
When a man’s ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.
Explanation:
Living righteously can turn hostility into peace. God has the power to transform relationships.
9. Isaiah 54:17
No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper…
Explanation:
God promises victory over enemy attacks. Faithfulness to Him brings spiritual protection.
10. Deuteronomy 28:7
The Lord shall cause thine enemies that rise up against thee to be smitten before thy face…
Explanation:
God actively fights for those who obey Him. He doesn’t leave us defenseless.
11. Psalm 138:7
Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies…
Explanation:
Even in the presence of enemies, God restores and protects us.
12. Psalm 37:1
Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.
Explanation:
Don’t let the success of enemies shake your faith. God sees everything and acts in His timing.
13. Luke 6:27
But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
Explanation:
Jesus repeats the call to love enemies, showing that love is stronger than hate.
14. Luke 6:35
But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again…
Explanation:
Loving enemies isn’t just passive—it involves generous action, trusting God to reward your heart.
15. Psalm 109:2
For the mouth of the wicked and the mouth of the deceitful are opened against me: they have spoken against me with a lying tongue.
Explanation:
Even in betrayal and slander, the psalmist cries out to God. He understands our emotional pain.
16. Romans 12:19
Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath…
Explanation:
Revenge belongs to God. Our role is to trust Him to bring justice.
17. 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.
Explanation:
Jesus teaches humility and grace—even in the face of aggression. It reflects divine strength.
18. Psalm 35:1
Plead my cause, O Lord, with them that strive with me: fight against them that fight against me.
Explanation:
David seeks God’s help in battle. We can invite God to defend us against unfair attacks.
19. Micah 7:8
Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise…
Explanation:
Our enemies may think we’re defeated, but God promises restoration and hope.
20. Psalm 18:3
I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.
Explanation:
Calling on God brings deliverance. Prayer is our most powerful weapon.
21. Psalm 56:9
When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back…
Explanation:
Our prayers have real impact. God hears and acts on behalf of His people.
22. Proverbs 24:17
Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:
Explanation:
Even when our enemies fail, God calls us to remain humble and compassionate.
23. Exodus 14:14
The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.
Explanation:
Sometimes the best action is to trust and be still. God fights our unseen battles.
24. Isaiah 41:11
Behold, all they that were incensed against thee shall be ashamed and confounded…
Explanation:
Those who come against God’s people will ultimately face defeat and shame.
25. Psalm 59:1
Deliver me from mine enemies, O my God: defend me from them that rise up against me.
Explanation:
This is a cry for rescue and protection. God is our shield in hard times.
26. Psalm 112:8
His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, until he see his desire upon his enemies.
Explanation:
Trust in God brings courage and peace, even when enemies surround us.
27. Lamentations 3:60
Thou hast seen all their vengeance and all their imaginations against me.
Explanation:
God sees every scheme of the enemy. Nothing escapes His notice.
28. Psalm 71:10
For mine enemies speak against me; and they that lay wait for my soul take counsel together,
Explanation:
Enemies may plot in secret, but God is our ever-watchful protector.
29. Job 27:7
Let mine enemy be as the wicked, and he that riseth up against me as the unrighteous.
Explanation:
Job appeals for God’s justice, trusting that those who oppose him will face divine judgment.
30. Psalm 41:2
The Lord will preserve him, and keep him alive… and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies.
Explanation:
God’s protection goes beyond physical safety—He also guards our purpose and future.
31. Isaiah 59:19
When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him.
Explanation:
God responds to overwhelming attacks with overwhelming power. He raises a defense for us.
32. Psalm 9:3
When mine enemies are turned back, they shall fall and perish at thy presence.
Explanation:
God’s presence alone is enough to defeat those who rise against us.
33. Psalm 44:7
But thou hast saved us from our enemies, and hast put them to shame that hated us.
Explanation:
God doesn’t just protect—He brings victory and honor to His faithful ones.
34. Leviticus 26:8
And five of you shall chase an hundred, and an hundred of you shall put ten thousand to flight…
Explanation:
With God, even a few can stand against many. Divine power outweighs earthly numbers.
35. Matthew 10:36
And a man’s foes shall be they of his own household.
Explanation:
Sometimes our enemies are close to us. Even then, God equips us with strength and wisdom.
Final Reflections on Facing Enemies with Faith
Enemies are real—sometimes visible, sometimes hidden—but God offers both strength and guidance for how to deal with them. These Bible verses about enemies in the Bible remind us that we don’t have to fight alone. Whether you seek protection, justice, or peace, God is always present and faithful.
Let these verses speak to your heart. Pray through them. Reflect on how you can live out love, courage, and trust—even in the face of opposition.
Which verse resonated most with you? Have you experienced God’s help with a difficult enemy? Share your story or favorite verse in the comments below.