Today we will talk about bible verses about being kind. Kindness is an essential virtue in our Christian walk. It reflects the love that God has shown us and highlights how we should relate to one another. Being kind isn’t just about friendly gestures; it’s a deeper expression of our faith and an obedience to God’s commandments. We are called to be agents of love and compassion in this world. Let’s dive into scripture, reflect on what it means to be kind, and see how we can practice this beautiful attribute in our daily lives.
Bible Verses About Being Kind
Kindness is a Fruit of the Spirit
In our journey of faith, we understand that kindness is one of the fruits of the Spirit, as mentioned in Galatians 5. This means that when we allow the Holy Spirit to work in us, kindness naturally flows out of our actions and words. It’s a beautiful gift that enriches not just our lives, but also the lives of those around us. When we focus on being kind, we create a ripple effect that embodies God’s love in a tangible way.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23
Colossians 3:12
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” – Colossians 3:12
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
2 Corinthians 6:6
“In purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love.” – 2 Corinthians 6:6
Titus 3:4-5
“But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy.” – Titus 3:4-5
Kindness in Action
We often think about kindness as merely an emotion, yet it should drive us to take action. The Bible shows us that kindness should be reflected in our daily actions and interactions. When we perform acts of kindness, whether big or small, we reflect God’s character to the world around us. Let’s be inspired to act, not just to feel; when we lend a helping hand or offer a warm compliment, we are doing God’s work.
Proverbs 21:21
“Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.” – Proverbs 21:21
Luke 6:31
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” – Luke 6:31
1 John 3:17
“If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” – 1 John 3:17
Proverbs 11:17
“Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.” – Proverbs 11:17
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
Kindness Towards Strangers
The Bible reminds us that our kindness should extend beyond those we know. We are called to show kindness to strangers as an expression of God’s love for all humanity. Kindness toward others can break down barriers and help us build relationships that honor God. When we step out of our comfort zones and embrace the unfamiliar with kindness, we are practicing our faith genuinely.
Hebrews 13:2
“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” – Hebrews 13:2
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 19:34
Matthew 25:35
“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.” – Matthew 25:35
Job 31:32
“But no stranger had to spend the night in the street, for my door was always open to the traveler.” – Job 31:32
Proverbs 27:10
“Do not forsake your friend or a friend of your family, and do not go to your relative’s house when disaster strikes you. Better a neighbor nearby than a relative far away.” – Proverbs 27:10
The Power of Kind Words
As we navigate through life, it’s crucial to remember the impact of our words. Kind words can do wonders—they uplift, encourage, and heal. Through scripture, we are reminded that our speech should always be seasoned with grace. Our choice of words can shift the atmosphere in our relationships and communities, reinforcing our commitment to embody God’s kindness.
Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” – Ephesians 4:29
Proverbs 16:24
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” – Proverbs 16:24
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” – Colossians 4:6
Proverbs 18:21
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” – Proverbs 18:21
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
Kindness in Difficult Times
Facing trials and challenges is part of our human experience, but what sets us apart as Christians is how we respond during these times. Choosing kindness in difficult situations can act as a beacon of hope for ourselves and others. It’s during these moments that our faith needs to shine the brightest, reminding us that God’s grace is sufficient to carry us through.
Romans 12:21
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” – Romans 12:21
2 Timothy 2:24
“And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.” – 2 Timothy 2:24
Luke 6:35
“But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High.” – Luke 6:35
Proverbs 3:3-4
“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.” – Proverbs 3:3-4
1 Peter 3:9
“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.” – 1 Peter 3:9
Kindness and Forgiveness
Forgiveness is one of the highest forms of kindness we can offer, both to ourselves and others. The Bible emphasizes that we should forgive just as we have been forgiven. It’s often challenging, but embracing forgiveness helps to heal wounds and fosters peaceful relationships. Through kindness and forgiveness, we reflect God’s unending love and mercy in our everyday actions.
Matthew 6:14
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” – Matthew 6:14
Luke 17:3-4
“So watch yourselves. If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.” – Luke 17:3-4
Mark 11:25
“And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” – Mark 11:25
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13
Ephesians 4:31-32
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:31-32
Kindness and Compassion
Kindness and compassion go hand in hand. We can practice kindness, but when it’s coupled with compassion, it becomes even more powerful. Jesus modeled this perfectly throughout His life, showing compassion to those in need. We are called to emulate His example. When we approach others with genuine compassion, our acts of kindness become truly transformative.
Luke 10:33-34
“But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him.” – Luke 10:33-34
Matthew 9:36
“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” – Matthew 9:36
Isaiah 58:10
“And if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.” – Isaiah 58:10
James 1:27
“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” – James 1:27
Psalms 82:3
“Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.” – Psalms 82:3
The Lasting Effect of Kindness
Ultimately, the acts of kindness we extend have lasting impacts—not only on those we help but also on ourselves. It enriches our lives and strengthens our relationship with God. Kindness can inspire change, create positive environments, and generate a sense of community and belonging among us. As we share God’s love through kindness, we help to build a better world for future generations.
Proverbs 19:17
“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.” – Proverbs 19:17
Proverbs 31:20
“She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.” – Proverbs 31:20
Galatians 6:9
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9
Matthew 10:42
“And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.” – Matthew 10:42
Philippians 2:1-2
“Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.” – Philippians 2:1-2
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on these verses, it’s clear that kindness is an essential part of our faith journey. It is not just something we do; it is who we are called to be as followers of Christ. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in this world. Let us choose to embrace kindness daily, remembering that it connects us to God and to one another.
We can learn so much from the examples in the Bible, knowing that each verse inspires us to act kindly in our lives. Kindness allows us to be conduits of God’s love and grace, showing compassion to those around us. Whether it’s with our words, actions, or attitudes, let’s aim to reflect the lovingkindness of our Savior.
May we always remember to be kind, for as we shine our light in kindness, we honor God and spread His love wherever we go.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4