Kindness is a fruit of the Spirit and a reflection of God’s love in action. Throughout Scripture, we are reminded that being kind isn’t just a suggestion, it’s a calling. Whether it's in our words, actions, or responses to others, kindness has the power to heal, uplift, and transform.
In today’s world, choosing kindness can be a radical and beautiful witness of faith. Below are 16 Bible verses that not only encourage kindness but also show its divine impact when practiced daily.
1. Kindness Reflects God’s Character: Ephesians 4:32
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
This verse reminds us that kindness isn’t just about being polite, it’s a direct reflection of God’s nature. God showed immense kindness through Christ’s forgiveness, and we are called to mirror that in our daily lives. Compassion and forgiveness go hand in hand with kindness, showing that real love requires grace.
2. Love Expressed Through Kindness: 1 Corinthians 13:4
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud."
Often quoted in weddings, this verse underscores that love without kindness is incomplete. Kindness is one of the first characteristics listed in the “love chapter,” showing how vital it is to genuine relationships. It’s not just about emotions but about intentional actions toward others.
3. The Fruit of the Spirit Includes Kindness: Galatians 5:22-23
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control."
Kindness is not something we manufacture ourselves, it grows in us when we walk with the Spirit. This verse points out that a life led by the Spirit will naturally bear fruit, and kindness is one of the most recognizable aspects of that fruit.
4. Kindness Leads to Repentance: 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?"
God’s kindness isn’t weakness, it’s purposeful. It invites us to turn toward Him. This verse reminds us that kindness can be a powerful tool for softening hearts and encouraging transformation, both spiritually and relationally.
5. Never Grow Tired of Kindness: 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."
Being kind can be exhausting, especially when it's not returned. This verse encourages persistence. Our acts of kindness are like seeds, and in due time, they will yield a harvest, even if we don't see the results right away.
6. A Gentle Answer Shows Kindness: Proverbs 15:1
"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."
Kindness often begins in the way we speak. This proverb teaches the power of words and how a gentle, kind response can defuse tension and prevent conflict. In difficult moments, kindness through calm speech can be incredibly powerful.
7. Show Kindness to Enemies: 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…"
True kindness goes beyond loving those who love us. Jesus teaches us to love and show kindness to our enemies. It’s a radical kind of kindness that reflects God’s unconditional love and promises an eternal reward.
8. Clothe Yourself with Kindness: Colossians 3:12
"Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."
This verse calls us to wear kindness like clothing, intentionally and daily. Just like we get dressed each morning, we must also put on kindness as a visible part of our identity as God’s people.
9. Kindness Is a Mark of Wisdom: Proverbs 31:26
"She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue."
In this beautiful picture of a virtuous woman, we see how wisdom and kindness are intertwined. Kindness isn’t only emotional, it’s intelligent and discerning. It teaches and nurtures others in truth and love.
10. Be Kind to Strangers: 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."
Hospitality is a special form of kindness. This verse challenges us to treat strangers with care, reminding us that God may be working in ways we can’t see. Our kindness might be more significant than we realize.
11. God Delights in Kindness: Micah 6:8
"He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
This verse is a summary of what pleases God, justice, mercy (which includes kindness), and humility. Kindness isn’t optional; it’s central to living a godly life and reflects what the Lord values most.
12. Return Evil with Kindness: 1 Peter 3:9
"Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing…"
This verse teaches a counter-cultural truth: kindness even in the face of hurt. By responding with blessing instead of revenge, we reflect Christ and open the door for reconciliation and healing.
13. The Blessing of Being Kind: Proverbs 11:17
"Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves."
Kindness not only blesses others, it blesses us. This proverb shows that the rewards of kindness are internal and external. A kind heart brings peace, satisfaction, and often prosperity to the one who practices it.
14. Act with Compassion and Kindness: Zechariah 7:9
"This is what the Lord Almighty said: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.'"
Justice and compassion go hand in hand. The prophet Zechariah reminds the people that God's heart beats for mercy and kindness. These are not abstract ideas, they're actions we are commanded to live out daily.
15. Kindness in Community: 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."
Community life can be messy, but kindness is the glue that holds it together. Paul’s message encourages believers to go the extra mile in doing good to others, even when hurt or wronged.
16. Let Kindness Be Your Legacy: Proverbs 3:3-4
"Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart."
Kindness isn’t a temporary virtue, it’s a lifelong calling. This verse encourages us to keep love and faithfulness close at heart, making them a permanent part of who we are. In doing so, we find favor with God and people alike.
Anne Kostick has been Editor-in-Chief since September 2007. Previously, Anne was a principal at Foxpath IND, a publishing, consulting and editorial services company specializing in the transition to and from traditional content publishing and online content management, development and publishing. Her clients included trade book publishers, technology and financial services Web sites, and arts and cultural institutions. Previously, she worked as Licensing and Product Development Director, Senior Acquisitions Editor and Director of Electronic Publishing for Workman Publishing, and as Senior Acquisitions Editor for Harry N. Abrams/Stewart, Tabori & Chang. In the online world she worked as Director of Content Development for Vitaminshoppe.com. Anne has a B.A. in Greek and Latin, with a minor in Theater, from Beloit College. She is the author of several books for children, as well as a definitive collection of jokes.