The qualities of a good person are something we all aspire to embody. In this exploration, we will look into the Bible’s verses that describe the attributes of a good man or woman. Together, we’ll seek inspiration on how to live a life that reflects these noble qualities.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Finding Love
Bible Verses About a Good Man
Psalm 37:23
The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, And He delights in his way.
This verse highlights the importance of alignment with God’s will in the life of a good man. When we allow the Lord to guide our steps, He takes delight in our way. It emphasizes the necessity of seeking God’s direction and following His lead in order to live a righteous and fulfilling life.
Proverbs 20:7
A righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him.
Integrity is a hallmark of a good man. This verse reminds us that when a man walks in righteousness and displays integrity in his actions, it not only blesses him but also has a positive impact on his children. A good man’s character and example can leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.
Proverbs 14:14
The backslider in heart will be filled with his own ways, But a good man will be satisfied from above.
A good man finds satisfaction and contentment in seeking after God and walking in His ways. On the other hand, someone who turns away from God and follows their own desires will only find emptiness and dissatisfaction. This verse reminds us of the importance of staying rooted in God to experience true fulfillment.
Proverbs 12:2
A good man obtains favor from the LORD, But a man of wicked intentions He will condemn.
The Lord honors and favors those who live uprightly and with good intentions. When we strive to be good in God’s eyes, His favor rests upon us. Conversely, those who harbor wicked intentions and live dishonestly will face condemnation. This verse encourages us to pursue goodness and righteousness in all that we do.
Proverbs 20:6
Most men will proclaim each his own goodness, But who can find a faithful man?
This verse points out the rarity of finding a truly faithful and trustworthy man. While many may boast of their goodness, it is far more valuable to find someone who consistently demonstrates faithfulness in their actions and character. It reminds us to look beyond mere words and seek out individuals who exhibit true integrity.
Galatians 6:9
And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
Doing good can sometimes be challenging, but this verse encourages us to persevere and not grow weary in our efforts. It reminds us that if we continue to do good without losing heart, there will be a season of reaping the rewards of our faithfulness. It serves as a reminder to keep pressing on in acts of kindness, righteousness, and service.
Proverbs 16:7
When a man’s ways please the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
Seeking to please the Lord and living according to His ways can have a remarkable impact on our relationships, even with our enemies. When we strive to be good in God’s eyes, His favor extends to those around us, fostering peace even in difficult circumstances. This verse reminds us that our actions have the potential to influence others positively.
Romans 12:2
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
A good man seeks transformation through the renewing of his mind. This verse urges us not to conform to the patterns of this world but to allow God to shape and mold us according to His will. By aligning our thoughts and actions with God’s perfect will, we can live a life that is good, acceptable, and pleasing to Him.
Psalm 15:2
He who walks uprightly, And works righteousness, And speaks the truth in his heart.
Walking uprightly, doing what is right, and speaking truthfully from the heart are all characteristics of a good man. This verse emphasizes the importance of integrity in one’s actions, highlighting the connection between righteousness and truth. It serves as a reminder to live a life that is consistent both in actions and words.
1 Timothy 6:11
But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness.
As men of God, we are called to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and gentleness. This verse sets forth a list of qualities that should characterize our lives. It encourages us to actively pursue these virtues and to distance ourselves from the things that hinder our spiritual growth.
Psalm 34:14
Depart from evil and do good; Seek peace and pursue it.
A good man is one who not only abstains from evil but actively pursues good. This verse reminds us to seek after peace and to make efforts to bring about reconciliation and unity in our relationships. It calls us to be peacemakers and to strive for goodness in all that we do.
Titus 2:7-8
In all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you.
This passage instructs us to be examples of good works in all areas of our lives. A good man not only demonstrates integrity but also reveals reverence, sound speech, and incorruptibility. By embodying these qualities, we become a testimony to those around us, even silencing our opponents. It urges us to live a life that consistently reflects the goodness of God.
Ephesians 2:10
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
As believers, we are created for good works that God has prepared in advance for us to do. This verse emphasizes that our purpose is not only to have a personal relationship with God but also to actively engage in acts of kindness and service. It calls us to embrace our role as instruments of God’s goodness in the world.
1 Peter 3:10
For “He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit.”
A good man guards his speech and avoids speaking evil or deceitful words. This verse highlights the importance of using our words wisely and with integrity. It reminds us that the quality of our speech greatly impacts our relationships and our own well-being. By refraining from negative and misleading speech, we can foster a life filled with blessings.
Titus 3:8
This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men.
A good man remains committed to maintaining good works. This verse encourages believers to continually affirm the importance of engaging in acts of kindness and righteousness. It reminds us that doing good not only benefits others but is also profitable and beneficial to us personally. It calls us to be intentional in our pursuit of goodness.
Matthew 5:16
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
By living a life characterized by good works, we become a light to those around us. This verse reminds us of the importance of our actions in pointing others to God. When our good deeds are visible to others, it gives them an opportunity to glorify our Heavenly Father. It urges us to be a beacon of God’s goodness in a dark world.
James 4:17
Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.
A good man not only avoids evil but also actively does good. This verse emphasizes that when we recognize an opportunity to do good and fail to act on it, it is considered sin. It reminds us that the call to goodness extends beyond merely avoiding wrong actions and compels us to proactively engage in acts of kindness and compassion.
1 Thessalonians 5:21-22
Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.
A good man is discerning and exercises wisdom in distinguishing between good and evil. This verse encourages us to test everything and hold fast to what is good, while simultaneously abstaining from all forms of evil. It reminds us to be cautious in our choices and to align ourselves with that which is good and godly.
Proverbs 28:27
He who gives to the poor will not lack, But he who hides his eyes will have many curses.
Generosity and compassion towards the less fortunate are qualities of a good man. This verse highlights the blessing that comes from giving to the poor. When we extend a helping hand to those in need, God ensures that we will not lack. Conversely, those who turn a blind eye to the plight of the poor will experience the repercussions of their indifference.
Proverbs 11:27
He who diligently seeks good finds favor, But trouble will come to him who seeks evil.
Seeking and pursuing goodness leads to finding favor with God and others. This verse encourages us to be diligent in our pursuit of righteousness and to seek after that which is pleasing to God. On the contrary, those who pursue evil will ultimately invite trouble into their lives. It serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning our desires with God’s will.
Isaiah 1:17
Learn to do good; Seek justice, Rebuke the oppressor; Defend the fatherless, Plead for the widow.
A good man is one who actively seeks justice, defends the vulnerable, and pleads for those in need. This verse emphasizes the importance of social justice and caring for those who cannot defend themselves. It calls us to stand against oppression, support the fatherless, and advocate for the rights and well-being of widows. It reminds us that doing good requires action on behalf of the disadvantaged.
Micah 6:8
He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?
This verse sums up what God considers good for mankind. It calls us to live justly, extending mercy and compassion to others, and to walk humbly with God. It emphasizes that a good man not only seeks righteousness but also embodies humility and love in his relationships with others. It serves as a guide for how we should conduct ourselves as followers of Christ.
Philippians 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.
A good man focuses his mind on things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and praiseworthy. This verse encourages us to guard our thoughts and intentionally meditate on that which is good and godly. It challenges us to cultivate a positive and virtuous mindset, which will ultimately lead to a life of goodness and righteousness.
2 Corinthians 9:8
And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work.
This verse reassures us that God equips and empowers us to do every good work. It highlights the abundance of His grace and provision, ensuring that we lack nothing in every aspect of our lives. It emphasizes that a good man has the resources necessary to engage in acts of kindness and generosity, as God faithfully supplies all our needs.
James 1:17
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.
A good man recognizes that every good and perfect gift comes from God. This verse reminds us of the source of all goodness and blessings. It encourages us to acknowledge God as the giver of every good thing and to express gratitude for His abundant provision. It reminds us to attribute our goodness to God’s grace and not take credit for it ourselves.
Proverbs 3:27
Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in the power of your hand to do so.
A good man acts on opportunities to do good when they arise. This verse reminds us not to hold back from extending kindness or help to those who are in need and deserve it. It serves as a reminder to be compassionate and generous, recognizing that we have the ability to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Matthew 25:35-36
For I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.
In this passage, Jesus commends those who performed acts of goodness and kindness towards those in need. He equates the actions of feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, welcoming the stranger, clothing the naked, visiting the sick, and ministering to those in prison as acts done unto Him. It underscores the importance of compassion and care for the less fortunate.
Hebrews 10:24
And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works.
A good man seeks to encourage and inspire love and good works in others. This verse reminds us to consider the needs of others and to intentionally motivate them to acts of kindness. It calls us to be a catalyst for positive change, uplifting and edifying those around us by our own example of goodness and love.
What Does the Bible Say About A Good Man?
In the Bible, the concept of a “good man” is discussed in various contexts, and it offers guidance on what it means to be a virtuous and upright individual. While the Bible doesn’t explicitly use the term “good man” as a single phrase, it provides valuable insights into the qualities and characteristics that define a righteous person.
1. Righteousness and Integrity: The Bible emphasizes the importance of righteousness and integrity in a good person. Proverbs 20:7 (NIV) states, “The righteous lead blameless lives; blessed are their children after them.” This verse highlights the idea that a good man lives a life of moral uprightness and sets an example for future generations.
2. Compassion and Generosity: Goodness is often associated with compassion and generosity in the Bible. Proverbs 19:17 (NIV) teaches us, “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.” A good man is willing to help those in need and show kindness to others.
3. Humility: Humility is another key characteristic of a good person according to the Bible. In Micah 6:8 (NIV), it says, “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.” Humility involves recognizing one’s own limitations and relying on God’s guidance.
4. Faith and Trust in God: The Bible often highlights the importance of faith and trust in God for being considered good. Hebrews 11:6 (NIV) tells us, “And without faith, it is impossible to please God because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” A good man places his faith in God and seeks to follow His will.
5. Love and Forgiveness: Love for others and the ability to forgive are also central to the concept of goodness in the Bible. In Matthew 5:44-45 (NIV), Jesus teaches, “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven.” A good man shows love and forgiveness even in challenging situations.
6. Obedience to God’s Commandments: Finally, obedience to God’s commandments is a recurring theme in the Bible when discussing what makes a person good. Psalm 119:105 (NIV) declares, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” A good man seeks to live in accordance with God’s teachings.
In summary, while the Bible may not explicitly define a “good man” as a single term, it provides a comprehensive guide on the qualities and behaviors that characterize a virtuous and upright individual. These qualities include righteousness, compassion, humility, faith, love, forgiveness, and obedience to God’s commandments. Striving to embody these qualities can help one become a “good man” in the eyes of both God and others.