Degrading others can lead to harm and division, a theme the Bible addresses with clarity. It teaches us about the value of respect and love for one another. Let’s discuss what the Scriptures say about degrading behavior and how we can foster kindness instead.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About liking someone
What Does The Bible Say About degrading others
Proverbs 14:21
“Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.”
This verse reminds us that degrading or despising our neighbors is sinful. Instead, we should strive to be generous and kind, especially to those who are less fortunate.
Matthew 5:43-44
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Jesus challenges us to love even our enemies and pray for those who mistreat us. It is not right to degrade others, but rather we are called to show love and forgiveness.
Galatians 6:1
“Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.”
When someone falls into sin, we should approach them with gentleness and seek to restore them rather than degrade or condemn them. We must remember to examine ourselves, as we are not immune to temptation.
1 Peter 3:8-9
“Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.”
As believers, we are called to unity, love, and humility. We should not respond to degradation or insults with more of the same, but rather bless others, knowing that we ourselves have received blessings from God.
Proverbs 21:13
“Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered.”
This verse teaches us that if we choose to degrade and ignore the needs of the poor, we will face consequences and our own cries for help may go unanswered. We are called to show compassion and help those in need.
Matthew 7:1-2
“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.”
Passing judgment and degrading others goes against the teachings of Jesus. We should refrain from judging others, as we ourselves will be held to the same standard and will receive the same measure of judgment.
James 3:9-10
“With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.”
Our words have power, and degrading or cursing others with our words contradicts our worship of God. We should strive to use our tongues to bless and build up others, for every person is made in the image and likeness of God.
Proverbs 11:12
“Whoever belittles his neighbor lacks sense, but a man of understanding remains silent.”
Belittling others shows a lack of wisdom and understanding. Instead, we should choose to remain silent and seek understanding, recognizing that degrading others only serves to foster discord and division.
Ephesians 4:29
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”
Our words should always aim to build others up and offer grace. Degrading talk has no place in our speech, as it brings harm rather than edification.
Proverbs 10:18-19
“The one who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever utters slander is a fool. When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.”
Speaking ill of others with degrading words reveals a heart filled with hatred and foolishness. It is wise to restrain our tongues and avoid participating in the spread of slander and transgression.
Luke 6:31
“And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.”
Known as the “Golden Rule,” this teaching of Jesus exhorts us to treat others as we would like to be treated. Degrading others goes against this principle, as we would not wish to be degraded ourselves.
Proverbs 16:28
“A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends.”
Spreading degrading rumors or gossip not only causes strife but also damages relationships. We should strive to be honest in our words and actions, seeking to bring unity rather than division.
Matthew 12:36
“I tell you, on the day of judgment, people will give account for every careless word they speak.”
This verse serves as a sobering reminder that our words, including degrading ones, carry weight and will be brought to account before God. We should strive to use our words wisely and with kindness.
Colossians 3:8
“But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.”
As followers of Christ, we are called to put away all forms of degrading speech. Our words should reflect love, kindness, and purity, rather than anger, malice, and slander.
Matthew 15:11
“It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.”
Jesus emphasizes the importance of the words that come out of our mouths. Degrading speech defiles our character and has a negative impact on both ourselves and others.
Proverbs 25:18
“A man who bears false witness against his neighbor is like a war club, or a sword, or a sharp arrow.”
Speaking falsely against others or degrading them with lies is compared to using weapons, highlighting the harm that such words can bring. We should choose truth over falsehood and seek to preserve unity.
James 1:26
“If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.”
Our faith in God should be reflected in how we speak. Degrading others with our words contradicts the essence of true religion, which is characterized by self-control and love.
Proverbs 12:18
“There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
Our words have the power to either harm or heal. Degrading words are like sharp sword thrusts, but wise and kind words bring healing and restoration.
Colossians 4:6
“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.”
Our speech should always be gracious and uplifting, even when responding to degrading remarks. We are called to represent Christ through our words and interactions with others.
Proverbs 15:1
“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Responding to degrading remarks with kindness and gentleness has the power to diffuse conflict, while harsh words only fuel anger. We should strive to be peacemakers in all our conversations.
Ephesians 5:4
“Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.”
Our words should be characterized by gratitude and purity, avoiding any form of degrading or inappropriate speech. Thanksgiving should overflow from our lips instead.
Proverbs 15:4
“A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.”
Speaking gently and with kindness brings life and encouragement, while degrading words crush the spirit. Let us be mindful of the impact our words have on others.
Psalm 19:14
“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”
We should always strive to have our words and thoughts align with God’s standards. Degrading others goes against His will, and we should seek to speak words of life, love, and acceptance.
Proverbs 20:19
“Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a simple babbler.”
Gossiping and degrading others by revealing their secrets is detrimental to relationships and trust. We should be careful not to associate with those who engage in such harmful behavior.
Proverbs 15:28
“The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.”
Before speaking, the righteous consider how to respond wisely and lovingly, while the wicked readily speak degrading and evil words. Let us seek wisdom in our words and actions.