Today we will talk about bible verses about being the bigger person. Many Christians do not know what this means. Being the bigger person is all about choosing kindness, humility, and love over pride and anger. It is not always easy, but it’s a pathway filled with strength and wisdom. When we embrace this challenge, we learn that our faith allows us to rise above conflict and demonstrate grace in difficult situations. As we explore these verses together, let’s open our hearts to the messages God has for us, inspiring us to be bigger and better in our lives and relationships.
Bible Verses About Being the Bigger Person
Choosing Forgiveness
In our journey of faith, forgiveness stands out as a powerful tool. We learn from Jesus that letting go of past hurts and forgiving those who wronged us can bring healing not only to others but to ourselves too. Forgiveness is often a difficult path, but it allows us to step away from holding onto grudges and opens the door for love and peace to flourish in our hearts. In the context of being the bigger person, forgiving those who have hurt us positions us to rise above conflict and express the love God has shown us. When we choose forgiveness, we set ourselves free and choose to reflect God’s grace in our lives.
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
Showing Humility
Humility is a beautiful attribute that embodies being the bigger person. It invites us to step back from the spotlight and recognize the value in others. Throughout the Bible, we see examples of individuals who embodied humility, putting the needs of others before their own. In doing so, we foster an environment where love and respect flourish. When we embrace humility, we open ourselves up to learn, grow, and build deeper connections with those around us. It’s a reminder that while we may have strengths, we are all equal in God’s eyes, and valuing others leads to a richer community where we can all thrive.
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
James 4:10
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” – James 4:10
1 Peter 5:5
“In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” – 1 Peter 5:5
Proverbs 22:4
“Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.” – Proverbs 22:4
Matthew 23:12
“For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” – Matthew 23:12
Practicing Patience
Patience is not simply waiting; it is a state of being that allows us to respond wisely rather than react impulsively. Being the bigger person often requires us to exercise patient love, especially in challenging relationships. In moments of tension, remembering to be patient enables us to listen and understand rather than jump to conclusions. Patience teaches us that God’s timing is perfect and that we can trust Him in our interactions. By embodying patience, we become instruments of peace in a world that often seeks division, allowing us to build bridges instead of walls.
Galatians 5:22
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness.” – Galatians 5:22
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
Proverbs 14:29
“Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.” – Proverbs 14:29
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
Ecclesiastes 7:8
“The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride.” – Ecclesiastes 7:8
Embracing Kindness
Kindness is the heart of being the bigger person. It is an outward expression of our inner faith and allows us to make a significant impact on those we encounter. Every act of kindness—no matter how small—has the potential to brighten someone’s day and shift their perspective. The Bible teaches us that kindness never goes unnoticed by God. When we embrace kindness, we mirror the love and grace that God shows us daily. In a world that may sometimes feel harsh, let us be the light that shines through with our loving actions and gentle words.
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
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
“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
Proverbs 21:21
“Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.” – Proverbs 21:21
Giving Generously
Being the bigger person often entails being generous—not just with our resources, but also with our time and attention. Generosity reflects God’s heart and is a way to show love to those around us. When we give, we break down barriers and build connections that matter. Each act of generosity, no matter how small, can inspire others to do the same. It may seem simple, yet it takes maturity and selflessness to choose generosity over selfishness. Let us embrace this spirit of giving, knowing that God delights in our willingness to share with others.
2 Corinthians 9:7
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7
Acts 20:35
“In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” – Acts 20:35
Proverbs 11:25
“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” – Proverbs 11:25
Luke 6:38
“Give, and it will be given to you: a good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” – Luke 6:38
Matthew 25:40
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” – Matthew 25:40
Building Others Up
One of the most significant aspects of being the bigger person is the act of encouragement. Building each other up instead of tearing down allows us to foster a supportive community filled with love and acceptance. Encouragement ignites hope where there may be doubt, and a few kind words can mean the world to someone struggling. The Bible repeatedly reminds us to be sources of encouragement, lifting one another in faith and love. By investing in the well-being of others, we demonstrate the beauty of living out our faith and fulfilling our calling as a community.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Hebrews 10:24
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24
Proverbs 12:25
“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.” – Proverbs 12:25
Romans 15:2
“Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.” – Romans 15:2
2 Corinthians 1:24
“Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.” – 2 Corinthians 1:24
Seeking Peace
In the pursuit of being the bigger person, seeking peace becomes essential. We are called to be peacemakers, aiming to resolve conflicts rather than escalate them. This might mean setting aside our pride and preferences for the sake of harmony in our relationships. The Bible encourages us to pursue peace as a noble goal, reminding us that promoting peace not only brings joy to others but also to ourselves. When we seek peace, we reflect the heart of God, inviting His love to reign in our interactions.
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” – Matthew 5:9
Romans 12:18
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” – Romans 12:18
James 3:18
“Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.” – James 3:18
Psalm 34:14
“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.” – Psalm 34:14
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
Responding with Love
Choosing to respond to others with love is the ultimate expression of being the bigger person. It requires us to look beyond ourselves, our feelings, and our circumstances, and focus on the needs of others. Love not only transforms our hearts but affects those around us as well. As followers of Christ, we are called to love unconditionally, just as He loves us. Each opportunity we have to choose love over hate or indifference allows us to demonstrate God’s heart for humanity. Let us be champions of love, committed to showing it in practical ways every day.
1 John 4:19
“We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
John 13:34
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” – John 13:34
Romans 13:10
“Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” – Romans 13:10
1 Corinthians 16:14
“Do everything in love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:14
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
Leading by Example
Finally, being the bigger person means leading by example. Our actions speak louder than words and have the power to inspire others toward positive change. By embodying the teachings of Jesus and showing how to navigate life’s challenges with grace and compassion, we create a ripple effect of goodness. Whether it is through our interactions at work, school, or home, we should strive to be role models of love, humility, and respect. Let us remember that we are not just living for ourselves; our lives reflect Christ, and they can positively influence those around us.
1 Timothy 4:12
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” – 1 Timothy 4:12
Titus 2:7
“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness.” – Titus 2:7
Matthew 5:14
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” – Matthew 5:14
Philippians 3:17
“Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.” – Philippians 3:17
2 Corinthians 9:13
“Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ.” – 2 Corinthians 9:13
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on these bible verses about being the bigger person, let us remember the importance of love, forgiveness, and kindness in our everyday lives. Each verse reminds us that our actions matter and have the power to create a ripple effect of positivity in our community. We are encouraged to lead by example, practice patience, and build one another up, embracing the differences that make us unique. By choosing to respond with love and humility, we can lay down our pride and create a supportive environment that nurtures growth and understanding.
As we move forward today, let us commit to being the bigger person in all circumstances, knowing that our choices reflect our faith and God’s love for us. It may not always be easy, but with God’s help, we can shine His light and bring about meaningful change within ourselves and our networks. Trust in the process, knowing that every act of kindness and love contributes to His greater plan.
Together, let’s strive to embody the principles found in these verses and make a conscious effort to elevate our hearts and minds, reaffirming our role as instruments of love in an ever-changing world. By doing so, not only do we grow spiritually, but we also create a lasting positive impact 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