Being kind to others is important, but is being “nice” the same as showing biblical love? Today, we’ll explore how the Bible encourages kindness and love in our actions.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Being Neutral
What Does The Bible Say About Being Nice
Proverbs 11:17
“A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself.”
This verse highlights the importance of kindness and the positive impact it can have on our lives. Choosing to be kind not only benefits those around us but also brings blessings and happiness into our own lives.
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.”
Known as the “Golden Rule,” this verse emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness and respect. By treating others the way we want to be treated, we create a harmonious and loving environment where everyone feels valued and cared for.
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
God’s forgiveness is a powerful example for us to follow. This verse reminds us to be kind and compassionate towards others, ready to forgive and extend grace just as God has forgiven us through Christ.
1 Thessalonians 5:15
“See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone.”
In a world where revenge may seem tempting, this verse encourages us to rise above it and choose to do good instead. We are called to be agents of kindness, promoting peace and showing love to not only those who are kind to us but also to those who may have wronged us.
Romans 12:10
“Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.”
Showing love and honor to one another should be a priority in our interactions. This verse challenges us to go above and beyond in treating others with kindness, respect, and genuine care, fostering a sense of unity and community.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
As followers of Christ, the Holy Spirit works in us, producing qualities like kindness. This verse reminds us that kindness is not simply an act but a fruit of a transformed heart and a reflection of the Spirit’s work within us.
Colossians 3:12
“Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,”
This verse instructs us to clothe ourselves with kindness, along with other virtues, as chosen and beloved children of God. Kindness should be an integral part of our character, demonstrated in our words and actions towards others.
Luke 6:35
“But 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.”
Following the example of God’s kindness, we are called to love even our enemies. By extending kindness to others without expecting anything in return, we reflect the character of God and demonstrate our identity as children of the Most High.
Proverbs 14:21
“Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.”
Kindness is closely linked with generosity and compassion. This verse reminds us that by showing kindness to those in need, we experience blessings and demonstrate righteousness, contrasting with the sinful attitude of despising others.
Matthew 5:7
“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.”
Kindness and mercy go hand in hand. This verse emphasizes the reciprocal nature of mercy, highlighting that those who show kindness and compassion to others will also experience the same in their own lives.
Psalm 37:3
“Trust in the LORD, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness.”
This verse encourages us to actively seek opportunities to do good and show kindness. By trusting in God’s guidance and remaining faithful to Him, we can faithfully demonstrate kindness in our relationships and actions.
Proverbs 3:3-4
“Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.”
Kindness should be intertwined with love and faithfulness. This verse suggests that when we embrace these virtues and allow them to guide our interactions, we will find favor both in the eyes of God and in the eyes of others.
Romans 13:10
“Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.”
The ultimate expression of kindness is love. This verse highlights that when we truly love others, we will not harm them but rather seek their well-being, fulfilling the law of love and righteousness.
Psalm 141:5
“Let a righteous man strike me—it is a kindness; let him rebuke me—it is oil for my head; let my head not refuse it. Yet my prayer is continually against their evil deeds.”
Even when receiving correction, kindness can be present. This verse underscores the value of having others hold us accountable and correct us with kindness, recognizing that it leads to growth and the development of godly character.
Proverbs 19:22
“What is desired in a man is steadfast love, and a poor man is better than a liar.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of having steadfast love in our hearts. Kindness that is rooted in genuine love is highly valued and preferred over dishonesty or deceit.
Acts 9:36
“Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means Dorcas. She was full of good works and acts of charity.”
The story of Tabitha, also known as Dorcas, serves as an example of someone who consistently showed kindness through good works and acts of charity. Her life of kindness had a positive impact on those around her, leaving a lasting legacy.
Galatians 6:10
“So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.”
This verse encourages us to seize every opportunity to do good, showing kindness to everyone. It also highlights the importance of extending kindness to fellow believers, fostering unity and support within the family of faith.
Isaiah 1:17
“Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.”
Kindness extends beyond mere actions. This verse calls us to actively seek justice, correct oppression, and care for the vulnerable. By doing so, we demonstrate kindness by advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves.
Matthew 10:42
“And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.”
Jesus highlights the significance of even the smallest acts of kindness. This verse assures us that when we show kindness to others, particularly those who may seem insignificant or marginalized, we receive a heavenly reward.
Hebrews 13:16
“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.”
Our acts of kindness and generosity are offerings that please God. This verse reminds us not to overlook the importance of doing good and sharing our resources with others, as these actions reflect the heart of God.
Proverbs 12:25
“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.”
This verse highlights the power of kind words. By speaking encouraging and uplifting words, we can bring joy and relief to those burdened with anxiety, demonstrating kindness in our speech.
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.”
This verse challenges us to set aside selfish motivations and pride, instead adopting a humble and selfless mindset. By recognizing the value and significance of others, we can show kindness in how we prioritize their needs and interests.
Luke 10:33-34
“But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion. He went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he set him on his own animal and brought him to an inn and took care of him.”
The Parable of the Good Samaritan exemplifies radical kindness and compassion. It challenges us to go above and beyond in caring for the needs of others, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Romans 12:20
“To the contrary, ‘if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.'”
This verse emphasizes the transformative power of kindness towards our enemies. By responding to their needs with generosity and care, we create an opportunity for change and reconciliation.