Today we will talk about bible verses about being the bigger person. Many Christians may find it challenging to understand what this means in practice. Being the bigger person is about rising above conflicts, showing forgiveness, and embodying Christ-like love, even in difficult situations. It’s about embracing humility and choosing grace over anger. Let’s meditate on God’s word together and see how it inspires us to become the bigger person in our relationships, leading by example and reflecting His love.
Bible Verses About Being the Bigger Person
Forgiveness
In our journey of faith, we all know that forgiveness is one of the most powerful actions we can take. By choosing to forgive those who hurt us, we let go of bitterness and allow love to flourish in our hearts. The Bible teaches us that forgiveness is not just a suggestion; it is a commandment that leads to peace and healing in our relationships. When we practice forgiveness, we become like Christ, who forgave us and set the ultimate example of being the bigger person.
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 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
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 6:37
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” – Luke 6:37
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
Humility
Being the bigger person often means embodying humility. Humility allows us to approach others without pride or an elevated sense of self-importance. The Bible is filled with calls to humility, urging us to recognize that we are all equal under God’s love. By practicing humility, we create a space for understanding and compassion, allowing us to engage more deeply with those around us. Let’s embrace humility and see how it transforms our relationships and reflects God’s heart.
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
Proverbs 22:4
“Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.” – Proverbs 22:4
James 4:10
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” – James 4:10
1 Peter 5:6
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” – 1 Peter 5:6
Matthew 23:12
“For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” – Matthew 23:12
Love
At the heart of being the bigger person is love. The Bible calls us not only to love those who love us back but also to extend love to those who may not deserve it. When we demonstrate love, we show that we are willing to put others first, just as Christ did for us. Love transcends differences and challenges; it has the power to mend broken relationships and to heal hurting hearts. Let’s strive to embody this love in our actions as we grow closer to being the bigger person.
1 Corinthians 13:4-5
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-5
John 15:12
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” – John 15:12
1 John 4:7
“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” – 1 John 4:7
Galatians 5:14
“For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” – Galatians 5:14
Romans 13:10
“Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” – Romans 13:10
Peacemaking
Being the bigger person often means stepping into the role of a peacemaker. The Bible teaches us about the importance of striving for peace in our relationships and communities. When we actively seek to resolve conflicts and discourage strife, we reflect God’s heart for reconciliation. Peacemakers create environments of safety and honesty, encouraging open dialogue and healing. Together, let’s take on the role of peacemakers, working towards harmony in all our interactions.
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” – Matthew 5:9
Romans 14:19
“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” – Romans 14:19
James 3:18
“Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.” – James 3:18
1 Thessalonians 5:13
“Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:13
Colossians 3:15
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” – Colossians 3:15
Kindness
Choosing kindness is an essential element of being the bigger person. The Bible teaches us to be kind to one another, reflecting God’s grace in our actions. Kindness is not just about acts of generosity; it’s about having a gentle heart and understanding spirit. When we embrace kindness, we create opportunities for love and healing. As we choose kindness daily, we not only uplift those around us but also cultivate a kinder and more loving community.
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Proverbs 11:17
“Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.” – Proverbs 11:17
Luke 6:31
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” – Luke 6:31
Galatians 6:10
“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” – Galatians 6:10
Proverbs 21:21
“Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.” – Proverbs 21:21
Service to Others
Being the bigger person also involves serving others selflessly. The Bible emphasizes the importance of putting others before ourselves and finding joy in serving. When we focus on serving others, we reflect Christ’s heart and demonstrate His love in action. Through acts of service, we can build strong relationships and create a nurturing community. Let’s remember that our service doesn’t go unnoticed; it echoes in the hearts of those we touch and ultimately honors God’s call to be the bigger person.
Mark 10:45
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45
Matthew 20:26-28
“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” – Matthew 20:26-28
Galatians 5:13
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13
Philippians 2:4
“Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” – Philippians 2:4
1 Peter 4:10
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10
Patience
Being the bigger person requires great patience, especially in challenging relationships. The Bible speaks frequently about patience, urging us to bear with one another and wait for God’s perfect timing. Patience allows us to respond with grace rather than react with frustration. When we cultivate patience, we not only improve our relationships but also reflect God’s love and wisdom. Together, let’s strive to be patient in our interactions, knowing that every moment offers us the chance to be the bigger person.
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
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” – Galatians 5:22-23
1 Corinthians 13:4
“Love is patient, love is kind…” – 1 Corinthians 13:4
Colossians 1:11
“Being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience.” – Colossians 1:11
Psalms 37:7
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.” – Psalms 37:7
Respect for Others
To be the bigger person, we must honor and respect those around us, regardless of our differences. Respecting others is an acknowledgment of their inherent worth as children of God. The Bible teaches us to treat others how we wish to be treated, fostering an environment of trust and vulnerability. By extending respect to everyone, we reflect God’s love and grace. Together, let’s commit to respecting each person we encounter, in our families, communities, and beyond.
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10
1 Peter 2:17
“Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.” – 1 Peter 2:17
James 2:1
“My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.” – James 2:1
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on these Bible verses about being the bigger person, we recognize the importance of embodying the principles of forgiveness, humility, love, peacemaking, kindness, service, patience, and respect. Each step we take toward being the bigger person strengthens our relationships and deepens our walk with Christ. It’s a journey, and we are all on it together, striving to reflect God’s love in our interactions, despite challenges and disagreements. Let’s remember that choosing to be the bigger person is not just an act; it’s a way of life, honoring God and his teachings every day.
In our pursuit of being the bigger person, let’s encourage one another and seek guidance through prayer and the Word. By committing to these principles, we can create a more compassionate and loving environment, which can ultimately change lives. Together, we can rise above conflict, show genuine love, and embrace the beauty of community. May we continually seek to grow in love and become the bigger person in every situation we face.
As we move forward, let’s keep these teachings close to our hearts, remembering that being the bigger person will not only uplift others but also reflect the light of Christ in the world around us. Let’s embrace the challenge with courage and faith!
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