Romans 12:21
"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good...." — Romans 12:21 reveals truths about God's character and His purposes. This passage has been a source of comfort, guidance, and inspiration for believers across generations.
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”Romans 12:21 (NIV)
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Surrounding verses
Read Romans 12:21 with the verses next to it, then open Romans 12 in full.
On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”
Submission to the Authorities Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.
When people use this verse
People often open Romans 12:21 when they are looking for Scripture on good friday, good friendship, good friendships.
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“The Word Became FleshIn the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
— John 1:1
What is this verse about?
Romans 12:21 is found in the New Testament, in the book of Romans. This verse comes from chapter 12, which can be read in full at the Romans chapter 12 page. Understanding the surrounding passages helps illuminate the deeper meaning of this verse.
How people apply it
As you reflect on Romans 12:21, consider how God's truth applies to your current circumstances. Scripture is living and active — it speaks into every season of life. Let this verse shape your thoughts, decisions, and relationships as you walk in faith.
Related verses
Curated from this site's topic lists — not a keyword scan of the verse text.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Romans 8:28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 12:2Do not conform any longer 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.
Micah 6:8He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
Nahum 1:7The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him,
Ephesians 6:8because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free.
Galatians 5:7You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth?
Hebrews 11:12And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore.
A short prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the truth revealed in Romans 12:21. Open my heart to receive Your Word and transform my life. Help me apply this Scripture faithfully and share its hope with others. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Quick answers
What does Romans 12:21 mean?
"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good...." — Romans 12:21 reveals truths about God's character and His purposes. This passage has been a source of comfort, guidance, and inspiration for believers across generations. The original biblical context enriches our understanding of how this verse applies today.
What is the context of Romans 12:21?
Romans 12:21 is found in the New Testament, in the book of Romans. This verse comes from chapter 12, which can be read in full at the Romans chapter 12 page. Understanding the surrounding passages helps illuminate the deeper meaning of this verse.
How does Romans 12:21 read in other translations?
Romans 12:21 is available in NIV, KJV, ESV, NLT, MSG, and NASB on this page. Open the compare view to read them side by side.