Bible verses about refugees

Currently, there are 103 million people who have been forcibly displaced around the world.

While many refugees flee their homes to escape conflict and disasters, refugee children are more at risk of abuse, exploitation and poverty. Children from countries such as Syria, Myanmar, South Sudan, and Ukraine urgently need your support, protection and prayers.

As the refugee crisis continues to grow, we hope these Bible verses will inspire you to mirror God’s compassion and kindness for refugees.

What does the Bible say about refugees?

Although the word ‘refugee’ isn’t used in the Bible, it has been argued that the terms ‘strangers’, ‘foreigners’ and ‘sojourners’ refer to groups such as refugees and displaced persons.

Additionally, Jesus himself was a refugee as a child when his family fled to Egypt to escape King Herod's attempt to kill all male infants in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:13-15).

We are called to show compassion and support those in need, whether that be through providing food, shelter, clothing, medical care, or advocating for their rights and protection.

All Bible verses are taken from the New International Version Bible.

Exodus 22:21

Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt.

Leviticus 19:34

The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God.

Leviticus 25:35

If any of your fellow Israelites become poor and are unable to support themselves among you, help them as you would a foreigner and stranger, so they can continue to live among you.

Deuteronomy 10:18

He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing.

Matthew 25:36-36

For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.

1 Peter 4:8-9

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling

Ways to help child refugees

As a Christian charity, World Vision helps children – of all faiths and none - in some of the world's most dangerous places. With your support, we can help the most vulnerable children overcome poverty and experience fullness of life.

By donating to World Vision, you can help refugee children around the world. We also believe in the power of prayer and would love for you to join us in praying for refugees and other vulnerable children.

Keep track of the great things God is doing through you in your very own prayer journal. Be inspired by a daily prayer guide, reflection, and suggested prayers for vulnerable children across the globe.