You can probably remember an instance when you were having a stressful day at work and your colleague bought you a cup of coffee because they noticed you were upset. Or maybe you were going through a breakup and your best friend made you a batch of your favorite muffins so you didn't have to worry about breakfast that week. Both of these gestures are small yet generous actions that go a long way towards making someone feel better. Being kind to others is a virtue, as the Bible reminds its followers via various verses. You may already be familiar with a few famous Bible verses about kindness, but there are additional equally important passages to remind you of the power of generosity.
Treat others as you want to be treated is the golden rule to being kind and compassionate. This theme makes appearances throughout the Bible, especially in verses about kindness that remind you to help the sick and less fortunate, and to choose goodness over evilness — even when it comes to your enemies. God will notice when you practice kindness, and will reward you for demonstrating this virtue. He knows it can be hard to choose compassion when you feel someone has hurt you, but these Bible verses will remind you that showing the same kindness towards others as God shows you is perhaps one of the most meaningful actions you can take.
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1
Galatians 5:13
“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”
The Good News: God’s gift of free will not only allows you to make beneficial choices, but also to do good and be kind to others. Having free will is a reminder that kindness, no matter how big or small the effort, is a choice.
2
Luke 6:31
“And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.”
The Good News: Treating others how you want to be treated is one of the easiest ways to display your God-like heart.
3
Galatians 6:9
“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”
The Good News: Being kind to others — even when it is not immediately reciprocated — can provide many blessings in the long run. God always rewards our efforts.
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4
Proverbs 12:25
“Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.”
The Good News: It costs nothing to speak kind words to others and ourselves.
5
1 Samuel 20:14
“But show me unfailing kindness like the Lord’s kindness as long as I live, so that I may not be killed.”
The Good News: If we all love one another and show each other the same kindness that God extends to us, we can all live better lives.
6
1 Chronicles 19:2
“David thought, ‘I will show kindness to Hanun son of Nahash, because his father showed kindness to me.’”
The Good News: Kind acts will always be remembered and passed down.
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7
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.”
The Good News: Even when things seem to be in disarray and we don't feel deserving, God still finds a way to show love and kindness. As we are made in His image, we have the ability to do the same to others.
8
Acts 28:2
“The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold.”
The Good News: Showing love and kindness to those — even when they are not like us — will not cause us hurt or anguish.
9
Colossians 3:12
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
The Good News: It is God’s desire for us to be kind to one another at all times. We have been chosen to do well for and be well to our sisters and brothers.
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10
2 Samuel 9:7
“‘Don’t be afraid,’ David said to him, ‘For I will surely show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan. I will restore to you all the land that belonged to your grandfather Saul, and you will always eat at my table.’”
The Good News: How you treat others will be remembered for years to come. And while you may not reap the benefits of your kind heart immediately, your unforgettable gestures will be beneficial to those that come after you.
11
Proverbs 16:23-24
“From a wise mind comes wise speech; the words of the wise are persuasive. Kind words are like honey — sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.”
The Good News: Kind words can heal the heart and mind.
12
Proverbs 21:21
"Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor."
The Good News: We get what we put out there in the world. Send out love and kindness, and receives it back.
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13
Proverbs 11:17
"A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself."
The Good News: Similarly to when we hold a grudge, the only person we harm by not being kind to others is ourselves. It's such a better feeling to be nice than mean.
14
1 Corinthians 13:4
"Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant."
The Good News: This verse is popular at weddings because it reminds those getting married that the best version of love to put out there is one without strings. Kindness and love are sort of interchangeable in this case.
15
Ephesians 4:32
"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."
The Good News: We have been forgiven of our own sins, the least we could do is be kind and forgiving to others. It's literally what Jesus would do.
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16
Proverbs 14:21
"Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor."
The Good News: Hatred gets us nowhere. Being kind to those around us, but also those who may need more help from us, is paramount to living a Godly life.
17
Matthew 7:12
"So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets."
The Good News: This is literally "the golden rule" of the Bible. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. In other words, if you want to be treated with kindness, be kind to others.
18
Jeremiah 9:24
"I am the LORD who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the LORD."
The Good News: When we struggle to be nice, we just need to remember that kindness is something that God loves to bestow. And how wonderful that we have the opportunity to partake in something that delights the Lord.
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19
Matthew 5:7
"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy."
The Good News: We get what we put out there into the world. Show mercy, get mercy. That's how it works.
20
Luke 6:35
"But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great."
The Good News: It's selfish to be kind and giving just so others will praise us. The true reward of being good to others is just that we got to spread some joy. That needs to be enough for us.
Elizabeth Berry
Updates Editor
Elizabeth Berry (she/her) is the Updates Editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she optimizes lifestyle content across verticals. Prior to this role, she was an Editorial Assistant for Woman’s Day where she covered everything from gift guides to recipes. She also has experience fact checking commerce articles and holds a B.A. in English and Italian Studies from Connecticut College.
Ni'Kesia Pannell
Contributing Writer
Ni'Kesia Pannell is an entrepreneur, multi-hyphenate freelance writer, and self-proclaimed Slurpee connoisseur that covers news and culture for The Kitchn. She's the former Weekend Editor for Delish who also writes about faith, health and wellness, travel, beauty, lifestyle, and music for a range of additional outlets.
FAQs
What does the Bible say about kindness and compassion? ›
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
What does Scripture say about showing kindness to others? ›“But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great.” “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them.” “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude.
What is a good Bible verse for compassion? ›Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ God forgave you. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.
What does Proverbs say about kindness? ›Proverbs 19:17
“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” The Good News: When you help those who are suffering, you are also helping the Lord. He will take notice of your kindness and generosity.
Proverbs 19:17
He who has pity on the poor lends to the LORD: When we give to the poor (expressing our love and pity towards them), we aren't wasting our money. It is like lending money to the LORD Himself.
One example comes from Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God has forgiven you.” In this sentence, Paul has summarized the biblical message: that we are to be kind, compassionate and forgiving. In other places, the gospel is summarized in other ways.
What does the Bible say about caring for everyone? ›Ephesians 4:32
"Be kind, compassionate, and forgiving to each other, in the same way God forgave you in Christ." The Good News: God models the best behavior for you to replicate. Kindness, compassion, and forgiveness for all. Do as God says and does, and you will be looked on favorably.
Proverbs 16:24, NIV: Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. Proverbs 16:24, ESV: Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.
How did Jesus show kindness to others? ›Healing the sick, feeding the hungry, teaching the people, caring for the widow, and defending children, Jesus lived 33 years of perfect kindness. He is not asking any more of us than what He willingly practiced himself.
What are 5 ways to show compassion? ›- Speak with kindness.
- Apologize when you've made a mistake.
- Listen carefully and without judgment.
- Encourage other people.
- Offer to help someone with a task.
- Be happy for someone else's success.
- Accept people for who they are.
What Psalm is about compassion? ›
Psalm 103: The Lord Is Kind and Merciful, Slow to Anger and Rich in Compassion.
What is Isaiah 54 10? ›Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed, says the Lord, who has compassion on you.
What is the best kindness quote? ›“Kindness is giving hope to those who think they are all alone in this world.” “Kindness is seeing the best in others when they cannot see it in themselves.” “Kindness is something anyone can give without losing anything themselves.” “Kindness is not what you do, but who you are.”
What does Proverbs 27 15 say? ›15 A quarrelsome wife is like the dripping of a leaky roof in a rainstorm; 16 restraining her is like restraining the wind or grasping oil with the hand. Together, these two verses complete one wise saying.
What does Proverbs 27 5 say? ›The Bible says, “Open rebuke is better than secret love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful” (Pro. 27:5, 6).
What does Matthew 25 40 say? ›Matthew 25:40, NIV: 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. '
What is the meaning of Matthew 5 42? ›This verse is most often seen as a command to be charitable and it is quite similar to Luke 6:40, but while that verse commands believers to give, this one simply states that they should not refuse requests ("lend, hoping for nothing again").
What is Philippians 4 19? ›Like Philippians 4:13, Philippians 4:19 is a popular verse that's often misused. After thanking the Philippians for generously supporting him, the Apostle Paul writes, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”
What is Philippians 4 13? ›13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
What is Romans 12 19? ›19 Dearly beloved, aavenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
What is Colossians 3 13? ›
Colossians 3:13, NIV: 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, ESV: bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.
What does God say about helping everyone? ›“Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” “Do to others as you would have them do to you.”
What is Proverbs 11 25? ›Proverbs 11:25 “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” | By City on a Hill Church International | Facebook.
Which Bible verse talks about helping others? ›Hebrews 13:16: “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Luke 6:30: “Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back. John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends.”
What is Ephesians 4 29? ›4 Verses 29 to 32. [29] Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
What is Proverbs 18 21? ›Proverbs 18:21, ESV: Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits. Proverbs 18:21, KJV: Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.
What is Proverbs 17 22? ›Proverbs 17:22 says, “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.” The Proverbs are wise sayings written by wise men such as King Solomon of Israel, inspired by God Himself. God has made us in such a way that joy and humor are meant to be vital parts of our lives.
What Bible story teaches kindness? ›The answer, of course, is the Good Samaritan. Jesus told this story as an example of what it means to be kind to others, even those we don't know who need our help. The Samaritan had compassion for the hurting man and maybe it was because he recognized it could have been him who had been robbed.
What is a biblical example of someone who demonstrate kindness? ›The Good Samaritan — Jesus told the parable of the Good Samaritan — a story of a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho, and while on the way he is robbed of everything he had and beaten. The good Samaritan came by and saw a person in dire need of help. He gives the man medical attention and takes him to an inn.
What is the law of kindness in Proverbs 31 26? ›The Law of Kindness is the Law of Love. Her mouth only speaks things that will bless and benefit others, even if it is a rebuke. She speaks the truth in love. She minds her own business and does not poke her nose into other people's affairs, but when asked, she speaks forth with skillful and godly wisdom.
What is the golden rule of compassion? ›
Empathy can motivate us to be good to others as we can imagine what it would be like to be in their position and think about how we would wish to be treated. Here, then, lies the origin of The Golden Rule. The Golden Rule can be expressed positively: 'Treat others as you would like to be treated yourself.
What are 3 examples of compassion? ›Giving up a seat to a pregnant woman, being polite to retail workers, helping your friend move, taking a second to listen at work — compassion takes many forms.
What are 10 ways to show kindness? ›- Use Your Manners. ...
- Smile at a Stranger. ...
- Don't Be Stingy with Hugs. ...
- Use Your Coins to Make Change. ...
- Send (Real) Cards. ...
- Pick up the Phone. ...
- Help a Stranger. ...
- Bake Cookies or Buy Doughnuts.
The psalm has also been understood as a prayer of the persecuted who has taken refuge in the temple or figuratively of refuge in God. The psalm concludes with a plea to God for those who honor him, to bless them with his justice and to protect them from the snares of the wicked.
What is Psalms 27 say? ›Psalm 27 Of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation-- whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life-- of whom shall I be afraid? When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall.
Why is Psalm 27 so important? ›This psalm invites us to believe again that our faith in God will never desert us, no matter what happens. Life without fear is not possible, but faith can call us to live into God's will for our life instead of reducing our lives because of our fears and insecurities.
What is Romans 8 verse 26? ›Romans 8:26 NIV
“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. ”
Romans 11:33, NASB: Oh, the depth of the riches, both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways! Romans 11:33, NLT: Oh, how great are God's riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways!
What is Matthew 28 verse 20? ›20: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen. The modern World English Bible translates the passage as: 20: teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you.
What are 5 words that connect to kindness? ›- affection.
- altruism.
- benevolence.
- cordiality.
- courtesy.
- decency.
- forbearance.
- gentleness.
What are 5 positive quotes? ›
- "When you have a dream, you've got to grab it and never let go." ...
- "Nothing is impossible. ...
- "There is nothing impossible to they who will try." ...
- "The bad news is time flies. ...
- "Life has got all those twists and turns. ...
- "Keep your face always toward the sunshine, and shadows will fall behind you."
“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.” “There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.” “When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.” “You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.”
What is Proverbs 21 19? ›Proverbs 21:19, ESV: It is better to live in a desert land than with a quarrelsome and fretful woman. Proverbs 21:19, KJV: It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman.
What does proverb 31 say? ›Bible Gateway Proverbs 31 :: NIV. do not spend your strength on women, your vigor on those who ruin kings. lest they drink and forget what the law decrees, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights. let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their misery no more.
What does Proverbs 27 verse 13 mean? ›Proverbs 27:13
Take the garment of him who is surety for a stranger: If someone is a bad credit risk (foolish enough to be surety for a stranger), then we should hold a deposit as security against anything they owe to us (take the garment).
15 “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. 16 But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses.
What is Proverbs 27 9? ›Sweet friendships refresh the soul and awaken our hearts with joy, for good friends are like the anointing oil that yields the fragrant incense of God's presence.
What the LORD says in Psalm 27 12? ›Psalm 27:12, KJV: Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.
What is the Bible story about kindness? ›One day a man was walking along the road and was suddenly robbed, beaten and left hurting. One man passed by and ignored him, and then another. Later, a Samaritan man came upon him and stopped to help. The Bible says the Samaritan man had compassion on him.
Why is kindness important to God? ›God knows that a kind word puts away wrath, and a person who shows loving kindness toward others is often known as a person of peace and understanding. Jesus showed us these attributes, and he taught his followers the importance of being kind to one another and to share with each other.
What is the biblical definition of compassion? ›
To have compassion means to empathize with someone who is suffering and to feel compelled to reduce the suffering. It's a fuller, truer definition than feelings alone, and it's a very biblical understanding.
What does the Bible say about being kind and generous? ›1 Timothy 6:17-19
Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.
David showed kindness to Mephibosheth, promising to restore to him all of Saul's fields. He appointed servants to work the fields. The fields would provide an income for Mephibosheth. David also announced that Mephibosheth would eat meals at David's table, just like one of the king's sons.
What are the 5 benefits of kindness? ›Kindness has been shown to increase self-esteem, empathy and compassion, and improve mood. It can decrease blood pressure and cortisol, a stress hormone, which directly impacts stress levels. People who give of themselves in a balanced way also tend to be healthier and live longer.
What Jesus teaches about kindness? ›Jesus said, “Love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil” (Luke 6:35). Our kindness reflects the heart of our Father.
What is the fruit of kindness? ›The fruit of kindness is the Christ-like characteristic of behaving toward others as God has behaved toward them. It's the idea of doing thoughtful deeds to others. A Prayer For Colossians 3:12. “God has chosen you. You are holy and loved by Him.
What did Jesus say about helping others? ›Instructions From Jesus on Helping Others. “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” “Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.” “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. ...
What did God say about helping others? ›Hebrews 13:16: “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Luke 6:30: “Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back. John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends.”