Today we will talk about Bible verses about compassion (KJV). Compassion is a beautiful and essential aspect of our Christian walk. When we look at the life of Jesus, He always showed love and kindness to others, even when they were difficult to love. Compassion means feeling the struggles of others and responding with love and action. It’s not just about having empathy; it’s about doing something to help those in need. We see throughout scripture that God calls us to be compassionate, reflecting His love in everything we do. So, as we meditate on these verses, let’s remember that compassion is a gift that we can share with the world around us. Let’s explore how God’s Word teaches us about compassion and how we can practice it in our daily lives.
Bible Verses About Compassion
Compassion in Action
In our daily lives, we come across many opportunities to show compassion. It’s more than just a feeling; it is a verb. Compassion in action means to actively care for those who are hurting or in need. When we look at the Bible verses concerning compassion, we can find numerous examples of how God wants us to act. These scriptures inspire us to reach out to others—not only in words but through our actions. We are reminded that each act of compassion, no matter how small, contributes to God’s plan and positively impacts our communities. Compelling stories of Jesus remind us that He saw the crowds and was moved by compassion. Let us also allow that compassion to move us to act lovingly towards others.
Matthew 9:36
“But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.” – Matthew 9:36
Luke 10:33
“But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him.” – Luke 10:33
1 John 3:17
“But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?” – 1 John 3:17
Colossians 3:12
“Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;” – Colossians 3:12
Psalms 145:9
“The Lord is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works.” – Psalms 145:9
Compassionate Hearts
Having a compassionate heart is fundamental to living out our faith. When we immerse ourselves in the understanding of God’s grace and love, our hearts begin to reflect that same compassion towards others. This beautiful quality allows us to see the world through the eyes of others, sensing their struggles, and wanting to reach out in love. It’s in these moments we truly showcase what it means to be a follower of Christ. Moreover, as we cultivate a compassionate heart, we invite God to work in and through us, transforming our relationships and communities in unexpected and amazing ways.
Ephesians 4:32
“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Matthew 5:7
“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.” – Matthew 5:7
James 5:11
“Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.” – James 5:11
Micah 6:8
“He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” – Micah 6:8
Psalms 102:13
“Thou shalt arise, and have mercy upon Zion: for the time to favor her, yea, the set time, is come.” – Psalms 102:13
Compassion for the Hurting
As we navigate through life, we inevitably encounter people who are hurting; their pain can be physical, emotional, or spiritual. It is our calling to reach out and offer support and understanding. Jesus showed us how to love others, especially those who are suffering. By understanding this mission, we can foster deeper connections and help others heal. Compassion for the hurting means being there for someone in their darkest hour and reminding them that they are not alone. We commit ourselves to stand by them and provide comfort, knowing that we are being the hands and feet of Jesus.
Isaiah 61:1
“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;” – Isaiah 61:1
Matthew 11:28
“Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
John 11:35
“Jesus wept.” – John 11:35
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
“Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble…” – 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Psalms 34:18
“The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” – Psalms 34:18
Compassion for the Poor
It is crucial that we remember the marginalized and struggling members of our communities. When we speak of compassion for the poor, we acknowledge God’s calling for us to care for those less fortunate. The Bible urges us to have a heart for those in need and to ensure they receive help and love. This reflects God’s heart for justice and mercy. By serving the poor, we bring light into their lives, demonstrating the loving kindness that God has shown us. Each small act of kindness can bring about significant change, showcasing how compassion can overcome poverty and despair.
Proverbs 14:21
“He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.” – Proverbs 14:21
Proverbs 19:17
“He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.” – Proverbs 19:17
Isaiah 58:10
“And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday.” – Isaiah 58:10
Luke 12:33-34
“Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not…” – Luke 12:33-34
Matthew 25:40
“And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” – Matthew 25:40
God’s Compassion
Understanding God’s compassion toward us is vital to recognizing how we should show compassion to others. The Scriptures are filled with God’s loving-kindness and mercy, illustrating how we are never beyond His love, no matter our circumstances. When we acknowledge this divine compassion, it inspires us to reflect that same love toward our friends, family, and even strangers. God’s compassion is enduring and unwavering; it shines brightly through us when we imitate Him in how we treat others, allowing His love to flow into our communities and relationships.
Psalms 103:8
“The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.” – Psalms 103:8
Romans 5:8
“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
Psalms 145:8-9
“The Lord is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy. The Lord is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works.” – Psalms 145:8-9
Lamentations 3:22-23
“It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” – Lamentations 3:22-23
Matthew 6:14-15
“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” – Matthew 6:14-15
Compassion in Prayers
Our prayers can be a powerful tool for showing compassion. As we lift others up in prayer, we join with God in inviting His presence into their situations. Prayer demonstrates our care and shows others that they are not alone. It fosters connections, allowing us to stand alongside friends, family, and even those whom we may not know personally. We have the chance to intercede for others and ask for God’s compassion to overflow in their lives, bringing peace, healing, or hope in their circumstances. This practice of compassion can transform lives while enhancing our supportive roles as friends and as a community. It encourages us to witness the power of God working in our world.
Philippians 4:6-7
“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” – Philippians 4:6-7
James 5:16
“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” – James 5:16
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Psalms 109:21
“But do thou for me, O God the Lord, for thy name’s sake: because thy mercy is good, deliver thou me.” – Psalms 109:21
Matthew 7:7
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” – Matthew 7:7
Compassionate Community
Creating a compassionate community is essential to practicing our faith collectively. When we come together, working hand in hand with hearts united in love, we can achieve incredible things. Compassion ripples out into society and makes it a better place for all. It reminds us that we are a family in Christ, where caring for one another becomes second nature. As members of a compassionate community, we find strength and encouragement in loving and serving together, growing in faith alongside one another as Christ intended. Let’s embrace this calling to build an environment where compassion thrives, and love continually flows.
Galatians 6:2
“Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
Acts 20:35
“I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.” – Acts 20:35
Romans 12:10
“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;” – Romans 12:10
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
1 Peter 4:8
“And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8
Growing in Compassion
Growing in compassion is not just a momentary feeling; it’s a continuous journey as we follow Christ. It involves inviting the Holy Spirit to soften our hearts toward others, guiding us to respond lovingly and faithfully to the needs we encounter. As we read and meditate on the Scriptures, we cultivate our compassion alongside God, allowing Him to shape us into the individuals He desires us to be. Growth in compassion takes time, but with mindfulness, prayer, and practice, we can become more attuned to the hearts of those around us. Let us embrace this spiritual challenge, allowing God’s love to deepen our compassion daily.
Philippians 2:1-2
“If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.” – Philippians 2:1-2
1 Corinthians 13:4
“Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4
Colossians 1:11
“Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;” – Colossians 1:11
Romans 15:1
“We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.” – Romans 15:1
2 Peter 1:5-7
“And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.” – 2 Peter 1:5-7
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on these Bible verses about compassion (KJV), it’s evident that compassion is not just about feelings; it’s about actions, attitudes, and influences in our communities. God has called us to be reflections of His love, extending our hands to those who need it most. Through understanding compassion, we can grow to become more empathetic and loving individuals.
We are blessed with the opportunity to serve and support one another. Whether through prayer, reaching out to the hurting, serving the poor, or creating compassionate communities, we embody the teachings of Christ.
Let’s carry this message of compassion into our hearts, allowing it to guide our thoughts and actions as we love others as God has loved us. Together, we can change the world, one act of kindness at a time.
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