Kindness is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting God’s character and His desire for us to treat others with love and compassion. Throughout Scripture, we are reminded to be kind, not only in our actions but also in our hearts.
These verses inspire us to extend grace, show mercy, and live out kindness in our daily lives. Below are some Bible verses about kindness, each with a descriptive heading and explanation to help you reflect on their meaning and application.
1. Kindness as a Fruit of the Spirit: Galatians 5:22-23
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."
This verse highlights kindness as a fruit of the Spirit, a natural outpouring of a life led by God. It reminds us that true kindness comes from a transformed heart, empowered by the Holy Spirit. When we walk in the Spirit, kindness becomes a defining characteristic of our lives, reflecting God’s love to others.
2. God’s 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 is not just an attribute but a tool to draw us closer to Him. This verse emphasizes that His patience and mercy are meant to guide us toward repentance and transformation. It challenges us to respond to His kindness by turning away from sin and embracing His grace.
3. Be Kind and Compassionate to One Another: Ephesians 4:32
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
This verse calls us to mirror God’s forgiveness and kindness in our relationships. It reminds us that our kindness should be rooted in compassion and a willingness to forgive, just as Christ has forgiven us. By doing so, we reflect His love and build unity with others.
4. Kindness to the Poor Honors God: Proverbs 14:31
"Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God."
Kindness to those in need is not just a moral duty but an act of worship. This verse teaches that how we treat the vulnerable reflects our reverence for God. By showing kindness to the poor, we honor Him and demonstrate His love in practical ways.
5. Clothe Yourselves 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 encourages us to intentionally "put on" kindness as part of our spiritual attire. Just as we choose our clothes each day, we must choose to embody kindness in our interactions. It’s a reminder that kindness is a deliberate act, rooted in our identity as God’s beloved children.
6. Kindness Rewarded by the Lord: Proverbs 19:17
"Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done."
This verse assures us that acts of kindness, especially toward the less fortunate, do not go unnoticed by God. It highlights the eternal value of generosity and compassion, promising that God Himself will repay those who show kindness to others.
7. Love is Kind: 1 Corinthians 13:4
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud."
In this famous passage about love, kindness is highlighted as a fundamental characteristic. True love is expressed through kindness, which is selfless and considerate. This verse challenges us to evaluate our actions and ensure they align with the kind of love God calls us to demonstrate.
8. Kindness in Speech: Proverbs 16:24
"Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones."
Kindness isn’t just about actions; it’s also about our words. This verse illustrates the power of kind and gracious speech to bring healing and encouragement. It reminds us to choose our words carefully, using them to uplift and nourish others.
9. The Lord is Kind and Merciful: Psalm 145:8-9
"The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made."
This passage celebrates God’s kindness and mercy as part of His nature. It reassures us that His kindness extends to all creation, reminding us to trust in His goodness and emulate His compassion in our lives.
10. 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, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked."
This verse challenges us to extend kindness even to those who may not deserve it, following God’s example. It teaches that true kindness is unconditional and reflects the heart of our Heavenly Father, who shows mercy to all.
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.