Being pleasant and kind to others is not only expected by society; it is a heavenly command that is interwoven throughout the Bible verses about being nice to others. Believers are constantly urged by God’s Word to act with humility, love, and compassion. Being pleasant represents the character of Christ and shows the transformative power of God’s love in daily life, whether it be through a kind word, a helpful hand, or a forgiving heart.
Jesus’ teachings place a strong emphasis on the value of treating people with kindness and respect. Scripture exhorts us to pursue true acts of kindness, especially when they are challenging, and to go beyond simple civility, as demonstrated by the Good Samaritan story and the command to love our adversaries. These verses serve as a reminder that being kind is not a sign of weakness but rather of love in action and power under control.
Additionally, kindness is a testament to our beliefs. Being kind to others, including those who might not return the favor, reflects God’s grace and creates opportunities for spiritual impact, healing, and reconciliation. The Bible teaches that our connection with God is directly reflected in how we treat others, and that even modest acts of kindness can plant seeds of peace.
The exhortation to be kind stands out as a potent witness in a world that is frequently characterized by conflict, rudeness, and self-interest. The Bible passages that follow provide inspiration and direction for leading a patient, kind, and compassionate life. These Scriptures will empower and inspire you to live out love in every interaction, whether you’re looking for motivation to spread kindness or inspiration for personal development.
30 Most Effective Bible Verses About Being Nice To Others in 2025
1. Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
This verse anchors Christian kindness in the example of Christ’s forgiveness. Paul urges believers to not only be polite but genuinely compassionate, extending grace even in the face of offense. True kindness goes beyond surface-level niceness—it mirrors the mercy God has shown us through Jesus.
2. Luke 6:31
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.”
Known as the Golden Rule, this teaching from Jesus places human interaction on the foundation of mutual respect and empathy. Being nice to others isn’t conditional—it’s a proactive expression of love. This verse encourages treating everyone with dignity, regardless of how they treat us in return.
3. Proverbs 19:17
“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.”
Kindness to the vulnerable is seen as an offering to God Himself. This proverb reveals the spiritual significance of being generous and gentle with others. In showing niceness, especially to those in need, we participate in divine compassion and receive eternal reward.
4. Colossians 3:12
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
Paul paints a picture of the believer’s character like a garment—one that is worn visibly in daily interactions. Being nice isn’t optional; it’s part of our spiritual wardrobe. It flows from knowing we are loved by God and chosen to reflect His character.
5. Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
Genuine niceness is rooted in sincere love and honor for others. Paul encourages believers to not only show affection but to place the needs and dignity of others above their own. This verse promotes a selfless approach to relationships marked by respect and kindness.
6. Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”
Kindness is not just a personality trait—it’s a fruit of the Holy Spirit. Paul explains that when we are led by the Spirit, kindness becomes a natural outflow of our lives. Being nice to others isn’t a forced act but a spiritual result of living in communion with God.
7. Matthew 7:12
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”
Jesus reemphasizes the principle of reciprocal kindness as a summary of the entire Old Testament ethical teaching. Niceness isn’t merely about good manners—it encapsulates the heart of God’s law: treating others with the care we desire for ourselves.
8. 1 Peter 3:8
“Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.”
Peter offers a blueprint for Christian community rooted in kindness and humility. Niceness here includes empathy, unity, and a willingness to understand others. These qualities strengthen relationships and reflect Christ’s character in us.
9. Zechariah 7:9
“This is what the Lord Almighty said: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.’”
God commands His people to pair justice with mercy and compassion. Kindness is not just about being agreeable but about actively ensuring others are treated fairly and lovingly. Being nice, then, is deeply connected to righteousness and divine expectation.
10. Proverbs 11:17
“Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.”
Solomon illustrates the self-rewarding nature of kindness. When we are nice to others, we don’t just bless them—we receive peace, favor, and often, reciprocal kindness. Cruelty, on the other hand, leads to isolation and destruction.
11. 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.”
This powerful reminder emphasizes kindness to strangers. Being nice to people we don’t know can have eternal implications. God values our treatment of outsiders and often uses such moments to reveal His presence and test our character.
12. Luke 6:35
“But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back.”
Jesus raises the standard of kindness: be nice even to your enemies. True Christian love is unconditional, extending grace where none is deserved. This radical call to do good reflects the heart of the gospel itself.
13. Titus 3:2
“To slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.”
Paul instructs believers to adopt a gentle and respectful demeanor in all interactions. Niceness here is consistent and inclusive—toward everyone. It reflects a spirit of peace and restraint that honors Christ in public and private life.
14. Job 6:14
“Anyone who withholds kindness from a friend forsakes the fear of the Almighty.”
Job appeals to the moral obligation of kindness, especially in times of hardship. Withholding kindness isn’t just ungracious—it shows a lack of reverence for God. Being nice is a godly duty that reflects our respect for Him.
15. Micah 6:8
“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.”
This iconic verse ties kindness to justice and humility. Being nice is part of living rightly before God. It’s not optional or secondary—it’s what the Lord requires. Our faith is made visible when we love mercy and treat others kindly.
16. 1 Thessalonians 5:15
“Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.”
This verse challenges believers to rise above retaliation and instead pursue goodness. Being nice to others means responding to wrongs with grace. Paul calls us to be peacemakers, choosing kindness even when wronged.
17. Proverbs 3:3-4
“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.”
Kindness and loyalty are not just virtues—they are guiding principles for life. When we wear them like ornaments and embed them in our hearts, we earn favor with both God and people. Niceness flows from a heart filled with love and truth.
18. Matthew 5:16
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Our acts of kindness are a form of testimony. Jesus teaches that being nice to others reflects the light of God within us. Every good deed points others back to the source of all goodness—our Father in heaven.
19. Isaiah 1:17
“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.”
Niceness isn’t passive—it takes action. Isaiah calls God’s people to advocate for the vulnerable. Showing kindness means standing for justice, compassionately defending those who cannot defend themselves.
20. Romans 13:10
“Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.”
Paul summarizes the moral law in one statement: love avoids harm. Being nice is an expression of godly love that seeks to bless, not wound. When we are kind, we live out the very heart of God’s commandments.
21. Matthew 25:40
“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.’”
Jesus identifies Himself with the poor, the hungry, the stranger, and the imprisoned. Acts of kindness toward others—especially the marginalized—are received as acts of love toward Christ Himself.
22. James 2:15-16
“Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?”
Niceness must be more than words. James warns against hollow compassion and calls for practical help. Real kindness is active, meeting tangible needs with generosity and sincerity.
23. Psalm 112:4-5
“Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous. Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice.”
Those who live with kindness and integrity bring light into dark places. The psalmist affirms that God blesses the compassionate, rewarding their generosity with lasting good.
24. 2 Timothy 2:24
“And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.”
Those who serve God must be gentle and approachable. Paul highlights kindness as a critical trait in ministry and discipleship. Niceness here isn’t weakness—it’s a spiritual strength that builds bridges and softens hearts.
25. 1 John 3:18
“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”
True niceness is love in motion. John urges believers to go beyond empty expressions and instead embody kindness in practical, honest ways. Love becomes credible when it is visibly lived.
26. Psalm 145:8
“The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love.”
God Himself is the perfect model of kindness. His mercy and patience define His interactions with humanity. When we’re nice to others, we imitate our Creator, becoming vessels of His rich love.
27. Leviticus 19:18
“Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord.”
God’s command is clear: let go of resentment and embrace neighborly love. Kindness, in this sense, is both a discipline and a divine directive. Being nice means resisting bitterness and offering love in its place.
28. Philippians 2:3-4
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
Niceness grows in the soil of humility. Paul encourages selflessness and concern for others as central traits of Christian life. When we prioritize others’ well-being, we mirror the self-giving love of Christ.
29. Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
How we respond to others matters. A kind, gentle reply can diffuse tension and promote peace, while harshness breeds conflict. Niceness in speech is a powerful tool for reconciliation and harmony.
30. John 13:34-35
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Jesus’ new command centers on love in action. Being nice is more than a behavior—it’s a mark of true discipleship. When believers practice loving kindness, the world sees a reflection of Christ.
Conclusion
The Bible reminds us that there is a better way—the way of kindness—in a society that frequently promotes cruelty and self-interest. Being kind to others reflects God’s heart and goes beyond simple etiquette. Every act of kindness, gentleness, and patience we display is a tiny glimpse of the love that Christ has shown us. We align ourselves with God’s will and contribute to the tangible spread of His grace when we choose to be kind.
Kindness is a fruit of the Spirit and a sign of sincere faith, as the verses we have studied make abundantly evident. God wants us to purposefully love, whether we are interacting with friends, family, strangers, or even adversaries. And we are reminded of Jesus, who showed us boundless mercy even when we were still sinners, in those times when kindness seems hard or unworthy.
Allow these verses to direct your thoughts and behavior every day. Seek out chances to encourage, help, and bless people with your words and actions. By doing this, you not only follow God’s instructions but also contribute to the healing, harmony, and hope that those around you experience. When kindness comes from a heart that has been changed by God, it has great power.
