Teaching kindness to kids is an important part of helping them grow into loving and caring individuals. The Bible has many verses that highlight the importance of being kind to others. These verses remind us that kindness should be a big part of our daily lives and that every small act of kindness can make a big difference.
Today, we’ll look at some wonderful Bible verses about kindness for kids. These verses can help children learn how to treat others with love and respect. They can also inspire kids to show kindness to their friends, family, and even strangers. Let’s encourage our young ones to fill the world with kindness!
Bible Verses About Kindness For Kids
Kindness as a Commandment
As followers of Christ, we understand that kindness is not just a suggestion but a commandment. The Bible calls us to embody kindness in our thoughts, words, and actions. By teaching children the importance of kindness as a commandment, we help instill in them the value of loving others as God loves us. Our acts of kindness can create ripples of positivity in our communities, leading others to experience God’s love through us. Let us encourage our kids to embrace these teachings and live them out daily.
Colossians 3:12
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” – Colossians 3:12
This verse beautifully summarizes how we should dress our character. Kindness becomes a part of our identity, reflecting that we are chosen by God. When we teach our children to wear kindness like a garment, we not only enrich their lives but also those of others around them.
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
This verse connects kindness with forgiveness. By teaching our kids to be kind and compassionate, we are also encouraging them to forgive, just as God has forgiven us. The essence of kindness is rooted in love, and we must teach our little ones that it includes forgiveness.
1 Peter 3:8
“Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.” – 1 Peter 3:8
This verse reminds us of the importance of community and how kindness is deeply intertwined with humility and love. By nurturing these qualities in our children’s lives, we foster an environment of support and understanding, instilling a sense of togetherness.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” – Galatians 5:22-23
Here we see kindness listed as one of the fruits of the Spirit. It’s a reminder that, as we nurture our relationship with God, kindness will organically grow within us. Teaching our children about this spiritual fruit equips them to show kindness genuinely and freely.
Luke 6:31
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” – Luke 6:31
This verse contains the golden rule of kindness. When we encourage our kids to treat others as they would like to be treated, we teach them empathy and consideration. It forms a foundational principle for building healthy relationships throughout their lives.
Kindness in Daily Interactions
Kindness is a powerful tool in our everyday interactions. It’s essential to create awareness among our children about how their words and actions can uplift those around them. By practicing small acts of kindness daily, we model how these gestures can impact lives positively. We should remember that kindness often comes back to us, spreading warmth and joy in unexpected ways. Let’s inspire our children to incorporate these teachings into their daily lives, ensuring that kindness never becomes an afterthought.
Proverbs 11:17
“Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.” – Proverbs 11:17
This verse teaches a precious lesson: kindness not only benefits others but also enriches ourselves. As we impart this wisdom to our children, we help them recognize the reciprocal nature of kindness and its ongoing benefits.
Proverbs 21:21
“Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.” – Proverbs 21:21
This particular verse shows us the positive outcomes of seeking righteousness and kindness. We’re giving our children the assurance that kindness leads to a fulfilling and honorable life, something they can strive to achieve.
Matthew 5:7
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” – Matthew 5:7
This verse encourages us to extend kindness toward others through acts of mercy. When our children learn about mercy through kindness, they develop a compassionate heart that embodies Christ’s love for humanity.
Proverbs 3:3
“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.” – Proverbs 3:3
The importance of love and faithfulness is tied to kindness. Teaching our children to engrave these virtues in their hearts helps them carry kindness wherever they go, creating a lasting impact in their interactions.
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10
In this verse, we learn the value of honoring others through love and kindness. By encouraging our kids to look out for others above their own interests, we help them cultivate a heart filled with goodwill and generosity.
Kindness to Family
Family is often our first interaction with kindness. Teaching kids how to express kindness at home can create an atmosphere of love and respect. The home becomes a training ground for demonstrating kindness towards others. By nurturing this environment, we foster stronger bonds among family members, setting a foundation for healthier relationships outside the family unit. Encouraging our children to express kindness towards each family member can profoundly affect the whole family dynamic.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
This verse reminds us of the importance of encouragement among family members. Teaching our children to build each other up fosters a home filled with kindness, support, and mutual respect.
Proverbs 15:17
“Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred.” – Proverbs 15:17
This verse teaches us that kindness is more important than material possessions or extravagant displays. By showing love in the small things, we enable our children to understand that kindness enriches life far beyond material wealth.
Proverbs 31:26
“She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.” – Proverbs 31:26
This verse emphasizes the role of teaching wisdom and kindness in our family. By encouraging kids to speak with wisdom and kindness, we create a nurturing environment that promotes positive conversations.
Matthew 7:12
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.” – Matthew 7:12
This passage reiterates the golden rule, which is vital for family relationships. Instilling this teaching in our children helps them understand that kindness should always be at the forefront of their interactions, especially with family.
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
This verse invites us to teach our children that kindness is rooted in humility. By valuing others over ourselves, we nurture a spirit of kindness that strengthens family ties and creates a loving atmosphere.
Kindness to Friends
Friendship is an essential aspect of a child’s life, and teaching them to express kindness to friends is invaluable. Kids learn to form connections and build a supportive network through kindness. By encouraging our children to be kind to their friends, we help them establish trust and loyalty. Furthermore, acts of kindness among friends create a nurturing environment where everyone feels valued and understood. Let’s inspire our young ones to cultivate friendships based on compassion, support, and genuine care.
Proverbs 17:17
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” – Proverbs 17:17
This verse highlights the essence of friendship and unconditional love. Teaching our children that true friends show kindness in all circumstances sets a strong foundation for lasting friendships.
John 15:13
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:13
Here we learn about the ultimate sacrifice for friends, which embodies deep kindness. Teaching children that kindness often requires putting others first empowers them to strengthen their friendships.
Proverbs 27:9
“Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.” – Proverbs 27:9
This verse reminds us of the joy friends bring into our lives. By encouraging our children to offer heartfelt advice and be kind, we teach them the importance of emotional support in friendships.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
This verse emphasizes the power of togetherness. Teaching our kids that kindness means supporting one another ensures they understand the value of friendship as a collaborative and uplifting bond.
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
This teaches kids to listen actively and respond with kindness. By instilling this principle in our children, we help them develop the skills they need to maintain healthy and kind friendships.
Kindness to Strangers
In our walk of faith, we are called to extend kindness beyond the familiar faces in our lives. Teaching children to be kind to strangers fosters love and respect for all humanity. By encouraging kids to practice kindness with those they don’t know, we show them the importance of compassion and charity. These lessons serve as reminders that everyone deserves kindness, and they help children grow into empathetic adults who positively impact society. Let’s nurture a sense of responsibility in our young ones to reach out to all, regardless of familiarity.
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.” – Hebrews 13:2
This verse encourages us to be open and kind to strangers. Teaching our children this biblical truth allows them to embrace acts of kindness outside their familiar circles, leading to unexpected blessings.
Luke 10:33-34
“But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds…” – Luke 10:33-34
The Good Samaritan serves as a powerful example of kindness towards strangers. By imparting this story to our children, we instill compassion for those in need, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Matthew 25:35
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in.” – Matthew 25:35
This verse illustrates the heart of kindness extended to strangers. By teaching our kids to respond to the needs of others, we encourage them to show kindness through practical actions.
Proverbs 19:17
“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.” – Proverbs 19:17
This verse emphasizes the significance of kindness towards those in need. Teaching our children the joy of altruism not only molds their characters but also nurtures a generous spirit.
Galatians 6:10
“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” – Galatians 6:10
This verse reminds us to seize every opportunity to show kindness. By encouraging our children to think of everyone as part of one big family, we nurture a sense of community and responsibility in them.
Kindness and Gratitude
Kindness goes hand in hand with gratitude. As we teach our children to express thanks, they become more mindful of the kindness received and encouraged to pay it forward. This connection helps them understand that kindness fosters a spirit of gratitude while gratitude inspires more acts of kindness. By instilling these values, we prepare them to create a positive cycle of giving and receiving in their lives. Let’s model gratitude and kindness together in our homes, building a foundation of appreciation and love that lasts a lifetime.
1 Chronicles 16:34
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” – 1 Chronicles 16:34
This verse encourages us to approach life with gratitude. By teaching children to thank God for His kindness, we also remind them to express appreciation in their relationships.
Psalm 107:1
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1
This verse reinforces the need for gratitude in our lives. Encouraging our kids to recognize God’s goodness can cultivate an attitude of kindness in their hearts that spreads to others.
Colossians 3:15
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” – Colossians 3:15
This verse highlights the importance of peace and gratitude. By teaching our children to embrace these qualities, we create a nurturing environment that promotes kindness towards others.
James 1:17
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights…” – James 1:17
This verse reminds us that kindness is a gift from God. Teaching our children to appreciate and share these gifts fosters a spirit of kindness that characterizes their interactions.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
This verse encourages gratitude even in challenges. By teaching our children to maintain a thankful heart, we help them become more adaptable and kind, regardless of their circumstances.
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the importance of kindness, we see that it is a thread woven deeply throughout the teachings of Jesus and the Bible. Each scripture encourages us to embody kindness not just as an action but as a core part of our identity as believers. By teaching our children the value of being kind to everyone—from family and friends to strangers—we help shape their character and, in turn, impact the world around them.
Kindness fosters community and builds bridges of understanding, compassion, and love. The beautiful gift of kindness is something we can all share, creating a ripple effect that transforms lives. Let us continue to encourage one another in being a blessing to others, instilling those lessons of love and hope in our children along the way.
If you would like to explore more about related topics, feel free to check out kindness and compassion or treating others with kindness for deeper insights.