Introduction to 40 Bible Verses About Kindness
In the spiritual tapestry woven by the Bible, the themes of faith and kindness are not merely threads running parallel; they are intricately interwoven, each reinforcing and elevating the other. This collection of bible verses about kindness serves as a profound exploration into how these two spiritual dimensions are deeply interconnected in the Christian walk. These scriptures reveal that faith is not a static state of belief but a dynamic journey that finds its most profound expression in acts of kindness.
The character of God, as depicted through verses like Psalm 145:17, “The Lord is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does,” lays the foundation for understanding kindness. It is through comprehending the depth of God’s kindness that our faith deepens, fostering a desire to emulate His character in our daily lives. This emulation is not born out of obligation, but out of a transformative relationship with God, where understanding His kindness through faith stirs a natural inclination towards kindness in our own actions.
In the realm of human relationships, bible verses such as Ephesians 4:32, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you,” challenge us to extend the kindness we receive from God to others. This extension of kindness is a tangible demonstration of our faith. It’s a testament that our belief is not confined to personal salvation but is an active force that influences how we treat others. These verses about kindness remind us that our interactions with our fellow humans are a reflection of our relationship with God.
Moreover, the Bible verses emphasize that kindness should be a deliberate act, not just a passive attribute. For instance, 1 John 3:18 urges believers to show love not only in words but in actions and truth. This directive underscores that faith, when truly lived, involves hands that serve and hearts that empathize. It suggests that kindness is the practical outworking of a faith deeply rooted in the believer’s heart.
Additionally, the scriptures illuminate the reciprocal nature of kindness, as exemplified in Proverbs 21:21, “Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity, and honor.” This principle suggests that kindness, undergirded by faith, is not only beneficial to those who receive it but also enriches the giver. It proposes that the act of giving, in itself, is a rewarding experience, aligning the giver more closely with God’s own generous nature.
This collection of bible verses about kindness thus serves as a spiritual guide, inviting believers to reflect on and integrate these two essential aspects of their faith journey. It encourages us to view kindness not as an optional addition to our faith, but as an essential expression of it. In doing so, it challenges us to live out our faith in tangible, meaningful ways that resonate with God’s heart and His desires for humanity.
Kindness as a Reflection of God’s Character
This collection explores the nature of God’s kindness as a fundamental aspect of His character. The verses in this section reveal how God’s actions are always infused with kindness, mercy, and faithfulness. They remind us that God’s kindness is not only a part of His identity but also a powerful force in the lives of believers, leading to repentance, providing comfort in distress, and showcasing His immense love and grace. These scriptures encourage us to recognize and appreciate the depth and consistency of God’s kind and compassionate nature.
Psalm 145:17
The Lord is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does. NIV
In Other Words: The Lord is just in all His actions and faithful in everything He does.
One-Line Summary: God is always just and faithful in all He does.
Psalm 31:21
Praise be to the Lord, for he showed me the wonders of his love when I was in a city under siege.
In Other Words: Blessed be the Lord, for He has shown me His marvelous love in a besieged city.
One-Line Summary: God is praised for His loving kindness in times of distress.
Ephesians 2:7
In order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.
In Other Words: So that in the ages to come He might display the immeasurable riches of His grace through His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.
One-Line Summary: God’s grace is shown through His kindness in Jesus Christ.
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.
In Other Words: But when the kindness and love of our Savior God appeared, He saved us, not due to our own righteous deeds, but through His mercy.
One-Line Summary: God’s kindness and love are the reasons for our salvation, not our deeds.
Joel 2:13
Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.
In Other Words: Tear your heart, not your clothes. Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, rich in love, and He changes His mind about bringing disaster.
One-Line Summary: Return to God for He is merciful, compassionate, and slow to anger.
Romans 2:4
Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?
In Other Words: Or are you despising the wealth of His kindness, tolerance, and patience, not recognizing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?
One-Line Summary: God’s kindness is intended to lead people to repentance.
Psalm 117:2
For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord.
In Other Words: For His loving kindness toward us is mighty, and the truth of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord.
One-Line Summary: God’s love and faithfulness towards us are immense and enduring.
Nehemiah 9:17
They refused to listen and failed to remember the miracles you performed among them. They became stiff-necked and in their rebellion appointed a leader in order to return to their slavery. But you are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love. Therefore you did not desert them.
In Other Words: They refused to listen and didn’t remember the wonders You had done among them. They became stubborn and chose a leader to return to their slavery, but You are a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and did not forsake them.
One-Line Summary: God is forgiving, gracious, and compassionate, even when people are disobedient.
Lamentations 3:22-23
Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
In Other Words: t is because of the Lord’s great loves we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are renewed every morning; great is Your faithfulness.
One-Line Summary: God’s mercies are new every morning, showing His great faithfulness.
Psalm 36:7
How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
In Other Words: How precious is Your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of Your wings.
One-Line Summary: God’s unfailing love is priceless and protective.
Kindness in Human Relationships
The verses in this listing focus on the importance and impact of kindness in human relationships. They provide guidance on how to interact with others in a way that reflects God’s love and kindness. This includes being compassionate, forgiving, humble, and patient with one another. These scriptures underscore the idea that kindness is not just a moral virtue but a reflection of the divine love we have received. They teach us that our interactions with others should mirror the kindness and mercy that God shows us, fostering a community of love and mutual respect.
Ephesians 4:32
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. NIV
In Other Words: Be kind and compassionate to each other, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ also forgave you.
One-Line Summary: Be kind, compassionate, and forgiving, just like Christ was to you.
Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
In Other Words: Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.
One-Line Summary: As God’s chosen, show kindness, humility, and patience to others.
Proverbs 11:17
A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself.
In Other Words: A man of kindness does good for himself, but a cruel man harms himself.
One-Line Summary: Kindness benefits oneself, while cruelty brings trouble.
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, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.
In Other Words: But love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for He is kind to the unthankful and evil.
One-Line Summary: Love and do good even to enemies, reflecting God’s kindness.
Proverbs 19:22
What a person desires is unfailing love; better to be poor than a liar.
In Other Words: What is desirable in a man is his kindness, and it is better to be a poor man than a liar.
One-Line Summary: People desire unfailing love, and honesty is better than wealth.
1 Corinthians 13:4
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
In Other Words: Love is patient and kind; it does not envy, it does not boast, it is not arrogant.
One-Line Summary: Love exhibits patience and kindness without envy or pride.
Proverbs 31:26
She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
In Other Words: She opens her mouth in wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness.
One-Line Summary: A virtuous woman speaks with wisdom and kind instruction.
Galatians 5:22
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness.
In Other Words: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness.
One-Line Summary: The Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and faithfulness.
1 Thessalonians 5:15
Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.
In Other Words: See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always pursue what is good for each other and for everyone.
One-Line Summary: Always seek to do good to each other and everyone.
Romans 12:10
Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.
In Other Words: Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor.
One-Line Summary: Love each other genuinely, showing honor and devotion.
Kindness as an Act of Love
In this selection, the verses emphasize that kindness is an active expression of love. They encourage believers to demonstrate their love through tangible actions, especially towards those in need. This section highlights the idea that true love and faith are manifested in deeds, not just words. It reminds us that our actions towards the less fortunate, the oppressed, and our fellow believers are a direct reflection of our love for God and a testament to our faith. These verses call us to be generous, hospitable, and to actively seek ways to do good in the world.
1 John 3:18
Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.
In Other Words: Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.
One-Line Summary: Show love through actions and truth, not just words.
James 2:15-16
Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?
In Other Words: If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, be warmed and filled,’ without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?
One-Line Summary: Faith without practical help to those in need is useless.
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.
In Other Words: So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.
One-Line Summary: Do good to all, especially to fellow believers.
Hebrews 13:16
And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
In Other Words: Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.
One-Line Summary: Do good and share with others, as it pleases God.
Proverbs 14:31
Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.
In Other Words: Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors Him.
One-Line Summary: Being kind to the needy honors God, oppressing them insults Him.
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.’
In Other Words: And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’
One-Line Summary: Helping the least among us is like helping Christ Himself.
1 Peter 4:9
Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.
In Other Words: Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.
One-Line Summary: Offer hospitality willingly and without complaining.
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.’
In Other Words: In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’
One-Line Summary: Helping the weak is blessed, as Jesus taught.
Proverbs 3:3
Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.
In Other Words: Do not let steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart.
One-Line Summary: Let love and faithfulness be your guiding principles.
1 Timothy 6:18
Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.
In Other Words: Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share.
One-Line Summary: Be generous and ready to share, doing good works.
Rewards and Blessings of Kindness
The verses in this final listing focus on the rewards and blessings that come from living a life of kindness. They articulate the principle that acts of kindness and generosity are not only morally right but are also rewarded by God. These scriptures convey the idea that kindness leads to spiritual and sometimes material blessings, including prosperity, honor, and the favor of God. They serve as a reminder that while the act of kindness is its own reward, God also acknowledges and blesses those who live out His commandments of love and mercy in their daily lives.
Proverbs 21:21
Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor.
In Other Words: Whoever follows after righteousness and mercy finds life, righteousness, and honor.
One-Line Summary: Pursuing righteousness and love leads to life and honor.
Psalm 112:4-5
Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous. Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice.
In Other Words: To the upright there arises light in the darkness; he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous. A good man deals graciously and lends; he will guide his affairs with discretion.
One-Line Summary: The righteous are gracious, compassionate, and benefit from their generosity.
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.
In Other Words: Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, will men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
One-Line Summary: Giving generously leads to receiving abundantly in return.
Matthew 5:7
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
In Other Words: Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
One-Line Summary: Those who show mercy will receive mercy.
Proverbs 11:25
A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
In Other Words: The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.
One-Line Summary: Generosity brings prosperity and refreshment to oneself.
Psalm 41:1
Blessed are those who have regard for the weak; the Lord delivers them in times of trouble.
In Other Words: Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble.
One-Line Summary: Those who care for the weak are blessed and protected by God.
Proverbs 14:21
It is a sin to despise one’s neighbor, but blessed is the one who is kind to the needy.
In Other Words: He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.
One-Line Summary: Blessings come to those who are kind to the needy.
Proverbs 22:9
The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor.
In Other Words: He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.
One-Line Summary: Generosity leads to blessings, especially towards the poor.
Proverbs 28:27
Those who give to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to them receive many curses.
In Other Words: He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.
One-Line Summary: Helping the poor brings blessings; ignoring them brings curses.
Isaiah 58:10
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.
In Other Words: 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.
One-Line Summary: Supporting the oppressed brings light and guidance from God.
Conclusion
In reflecting upon these bible verses about kindness, we are reminded of the transformative power of kindness as a reflection of our faith and commitment to God’s teachings. These scriptures, rich in wisdom and guidance, offer a blueprint for living a life that is not only pleasing to God but also enriching to our own spiritual journey and the lives of those around us. The bible verses about kindness serve as a testament to the fact that kindness is an essential element of a believer’s life, deeply rooted in the love and teachings of Christ.
Verses like Proverbs 11:17, “A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself,” illustrate the profound personal impact of kindness. This wisdom highlights that kindness is not just a moral good but also a path to personal fulfillment and peace. Similarly, 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,” encourages us to seize every opportunity to express kindness, emphasizing its role in strengthening our community and faith.
The collection of these bible verses about kindness culminates in a powerful narrative that encourages us to view kindness as an active choice, a deliberate expression of our faith and love. 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,'” serves as a poignant reminder that our acts of kindness are not just to our fellow human beings but are seen as service to Christ Himself.
As we conclude this exploration of bible verses about kindness, let us carry forward the understanding that kindness is more than an act; it is a way of living that deeply reflects our faith. It is an embodiment of the grace and love that we have received from God, and a means through which we can share that grace and love with the world. Let these verses inspire and guide us to weave kindness into the very fabric of our daily lives, enriching our faith and spreading the light of God’s love wherever we go.
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Kindness Bible Verses
What Does the Bible Say About Showing Kindness to Others?
The Bible emphasizes the importance of showing kindness to others as a reflection of God’s love. Ephesians 4:32 instructs, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Similarly, Colossians 3:12 encourages believers to clothe themselves with kindness as part of their new nature in Christ.
How Is Kindness Linked to God’s Character in the Bible?
Kindness is a key aspect of God’s character. Psalm 145:17 says, “The Lord is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does,” highlighting His inherent kindness. Additionally, Joel 2:13 describes God as “gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love,” further illustrating His kind nature.
Can Acts of Kindness Impact Our Own Lives According to the Bible?
Yes, the Bible suggests that acts of kindness can have a positive impact on our own lives. Proverbs 11:17 notes, “A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself,” indicating that kindness leads to personal benefit.
Is Kindness Considered an Important Quality in Christian Character According to the Bible?
Yes, kindness is regarded as a crucial aspect of Christian character in the Bible. Galatians 5:22 lists kindness as a fruit of the Spirit, indicating its importance in the life of a believer. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness.”
How Does the Bible Suggest We Respond With Kindness to Our Enemies?
The Bible encourages responding with kindness even towards enemies. Luke 6:35 advises, “But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back.” This verse emphasizes the importance of showing unconditional kindness.
What Does the Bible Say About the Relationship Between Kindness and Wisdom?
The Bible often links kindness with wisdom. Proverbs 31:26, speaking of a virtuous woman, says, “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.” This suggests that true wisdom encompasses the ability to speak and teach kindness.
Are There Examples in the Bible Where Kindness Leads to Repentance?
Yes, the Bible suggests that God’s kindness can lead to repentance. Romans 2:4 states, “Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?” This verse highlights how God’s kindness can move hearts towards repentance.
What Does the Bible Say About Kindness?
The Bible extensively emphasizes kindness as a core aspect of God’s character and a crucial attribute for believers to embody. It portrays kindness as a reflection of divine nature, particularly highlighting God’s compassion and mercy. Scriptures such as Psalm 145:17 and Ephesians 2:7 reveal God’s kindness as fundamental to His dealings with humanity. Kindness is also presented as a Fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22, suggesting it’s a natural outcome of spiritual growth in believers.
Moreover, the Bible commands Christians to practice kindness actively. Ephesians 4:32, for instance, instructs believers to be kind and compassionate, mirroring the forgiveness and love of Christ. Kindness is linked with love and wisdom, as seen in 1 Corinthians 13:4 and Proverbs 31:26, and is portrayed as a means of witnessing to others, with its potential to lead hearts towards repentance (Romans 2:4). Practicing kindness is also associated with personal blessings and positive outcomes, as stated in Proverbs 11:17, underscoring its significance in a believer’s life.
A Prayer Inspired by Kindness Bible Verses
As we reflect on the profound teachings about kindness found in the Bible, let us approach God in prayer, seeking to embody the kindness that He has shown us. These verses remind us of the importance of kindness in our lives as a reflection of God’s love and character. Through prayer, we can ask for God’s guidance in cultivating a heart of kindness, compassion, and love towards others, just as He has been kind and loving towards us.
Our Prayer Inspired by Our Selection of Bible Verses About Kindness
Heavenly Father,
We come before You with hearts open and ready to receive Your teachings of kindness and love. Your Word, through verses like Ephesians 4:32, instructs us to be kind and compassionate, reflecting the grace You have so generously given us. Help us, O Lord, to embody this kindness in our daily lives, to be mirrors of Your love in a world that so desperately needs it.
Lord, as Psalm 145:17 declares, You are righteous in all Your ways and faithful in all You do. We pray that Your character of kindness and faithfulness would be deeply rooted in our hearts. May we, like the virtuous woman in Proverbs 31:26, speak with wisdom and teach kindness with our words and actions.
In our interactions with others, guide us to follow the example of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who taught us in Luke 6:35 to love our enemies and do good without expecting anything in return. Let this selfless love be our guiding light, showing kindness not just in easy circumstances but in all situations, even when faced with adversity.
We ask for the strength to live out the truth of 1 John 3:18, not merely loving with words or speech, but with actions and in truth. May our deeds reflect the love and kindness You have shown us, reaching out to those in need, supporting the weak, and offering hospitality and help to those around us.
Grant us the wisdom to understand that our acts of kindness, as small as they might seem, are significant in Your eyes. As Proverbs 11:17 teaches, a kind man benefits himself, reminding us that our acts of kindness not only bless others but also enrich our own lives.
Finally, we thank You for the promise that as we pursue righteousness and love, as in Proverbs 21:21, we find life, prosperity, and honor. Bless us with the courage to consistently choose kindness, to walk in love, and to reflect Your goodness in every aspect of our lives.
In Jesus’ name, we pray,
Amen.