I’m starting to get the feeling that someone is taking out their anger and frustration on me instead of on their own issue….I’ve been respectful and I have set boundaries. I don’t want to be resentful and I’m hopeful this person does not resent me. Where should I go in scripture for this?
Joh_15:19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
That is a challenging and painful situation, and the Bible offers substantial guidance on how to respond when you are the target of resentment.
The core biblical response centers on love, peace, and forgiveness, regardless of the other person’s attitude.
Respond with love and kindness
Instead of reciprocating negative feelings, the Bible encourages an active, positive response.
Love your enemies and pray for them: Jesus’s teaching is direct and radical in this matter.
“But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” Matthew 5:44
Conquer evil with good: Do not seek revenge, but show love to overcome their hatred.
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:21 "To me belongs vengeance, I will repay, says the Lord. But if your enemy is hungry, feed him; and if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” Romans 12:19-20
Forgive them.
Forgiveness is presented as a non-negotiable step for personal freedom and spiritual health.
Forgive as you have been forgiven: The expectation is to extend the same mercy God has shown you.
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32
Forgiveness is linked to your own: Jesus warns that withholding forgiveness from others hinders your own.
“And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” Mark 11:25
Forgive repeatedly: When asked how often to forgive, Jesus replied not seven times, “but, I tell you, seventy-seven times.” Matthew 18:22
If possible, seek Peace and Reconciliation
You are called to make every effort to live in peace, though this does not mean being a doormat for abuse.
Live peaceably: Your responsibility is to do your part to maintain peace.
“If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” Romans 12:18
Be a peacemaker: The Bible suggests you should take the initiative, especially if you know the person is angry with you.
“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and you remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” Matthew 5:23-24
The biblical advice is to respond to resentment directed toward you with active love, humility, and immediate forgiveness, while taking steps to maintain peace and control your own emotions.
You’re showing wisdom by setting boundaries and wanting to guard your heart against resentment. That’s not easy, especially when someone is treating you poorly.
I’d encourage you to spend time in Romans 12, especially verses 17–21. It says, “Do not repay anyone evil for evil… If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all… Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” This passage reminds us to stay respectful and kind, even when others are not.
Psalm 37 is also deeply comforting. It encourages us not to fret when others act wrongly, but to trust that God sees and will act in His time.