Ninety-three percent of Americans reported having done something kind in the past three months, with acts like saying hello to a stranger, holding a door open, or giving a compliment.1
Kindness not only benefits the recipient but also the giver, with 89% of respondents saying that showing kindness made them feel better. The bible is filled with powerful stories of kindness that continue to inspire people today.
Here are 12 bible stories about kindness that will uplift and encourage you.
1. The Good Samaritan
Luke 10:25-37
In this parable, Jesus teaches about the importance of showing kindness to others, regardless of their background or social status. A man is robbed and left for dead, and while a priest and a Levite pass him by, a Samaritan stops to help, demonstrating true compassion.
The Good Samaritan’s actions serve as a powerful reminder that we should extend kindness to all, even those who may be considered outsiders or enemies.
In transcending societal boundaries and prejudices, we can embody the true essence of love and compassion.
2. Ruth’s Loyalty
Book of Ruth
The story of Ruth is a beautiful example of kindness and loyalty. After the death of her husband, Ruth chooses to stay with her mother-in-law, Naomi, despite the hardships they face.
She works tirelessly to provide for Naomi and ultimately finds love and happiness in her new life.
Through her unwavering devotion, Ruth exemplifies the strength of family bonds and the transformative power of selfless love. Her journey encourages us to remain kind and supportive, even in the face of adversity.
3. David & Mephibosheth
2 Samuel 9
King David demonstrates remarkable kindness when he seeks out Mephibosheth, the son of his late friend Jonathan. Despite Mephibosheth’s physical disability and his family’s past opposition to David, the king welcomes him into his home and treats him as a member of the royal family.
Because of his grace and compassion to Mephibosheth, David showcases the healing potential of kindness. His actions inspire us to look beyond our differences and past grievances, fostering reconciliation and understanding.
4. Elijah & the Widow
1 Kings 17:8-16
During a severe famine, God sends the prophet Elijah to a widow in Zarephath. Despite her own struggles, the widow shows kindness to Elijah, offering him her last meal.
In return, God miraculously provides for her and her son throughout the famine.
The widow’s generosity, even in the face of scarcity, demonstrates the profound impact of sharing what we have. Her faith and willingness to give remind us that acts of kindness often yield unexpected blessings.
5. Joseph’s Forgiveness
Genesis 37-50
Joseph’s story is one of the most remarkable examples of kindness and forgiveness in the Bible. Despite being sold into slavery by his brothers and facing numerous hardships, Joseph chooses to forgive them when they come to him for help during a famine.
Through his extraordinary capacity for forgiveness, Joseph breaks the cycle of bitterness and resentment.
6. Tabitha’s Generosity
Acts 9:36-42
Tabitha, also known as Dorcas, was a woman known for her acts of kindness and charity. She spent her time making clothes for the poor and helping those in need.
When she fell ill and died, the community mourned her loss, and Peter raised her back to life.
Tabitha’s legacy serves as a testament to the enduring impact of kindness. By using her talents and resources to bless others, she left an indelible mark on her community, inspiring us to make a difference through our own acts of generosity.
7. Boaz’s Kindness
Book of Ruth
Boaz, a wealthy landowner, shows remarkable kindness to Ruth, a poor widowed foreigner. He ensures her safety, provides for her needs, and ultimately marries her, securing her future and the future of her family.
Through his compassionate actions, Boaz demonstrates the life-changing potential of extending kindness to the vulnerable and marginalized. His story encourages us to be ever-ready to lend a helping hand, knowing that even small gestures can have a profound impact.
8. The Feeding of the 5,000
Matthew 14:13-21, Mark 6:30-44, Luke 9:10-17, John 6:1-15
In this well-known miracle, Jesus shows compassion for a large crowd of people who have followed him to a remote place. Rather than sending them away, he feeds them all with just five loaves of bread and two fish.
Jesus’ miracle not only demonstrates the abundance of God’s love but also highlights the importance of meeting the needs of others. When trusting in divine provision and sharing our resources, we can embody the spirit of kindness and compassion.
9. The Healing of the Leper
Matthew 8:1-4, Mark 1:40-45, Luke 5:12-16
In this story, Jesus shows kindness to a man suffering from leprosy, a highly stigmatized and isolating disease. Despite the man’s condition, Jesus reaches out and touches him, healing him both physically and emotionally.
Jesus’ compassionate touch serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative nature of human connection. Reaching out to those who are marginalized or excluded, we can offer hope, healing, and restoration.
10. The Parable of the Sheep & the Goats
Matthew 25:31-46
In this parable, Jesus teaches about the importance of showing kindness to those in need. He explains that when we feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, welcome the stranger, clothe the naked, and visit the sick and imprisoned, we are doing these things for him.
This powerful teaching underscores the eternal significance of our acts of kindness. By serving others with compassion, we honor Christ himself and fulfill our divine calling to love and care for one another.
11. The Prodigal Son
Luke 15:11-32
In this parable, a father shows extraordinary kindness and forgiveness to his younger son, who has squandered his inheritance and returned home in shame. Despite the son’s mistakes, the father welcomes him back with open arms and celebrates his return.
The father’s unconditional love and forgiveness serve as a poignant reminder of the depths of God’s grace. This story encourages us to extend compassion to those who have strayed, knowing that the power of love can restore even the most broken relationships.
12. The Woman at the Well
John 4:1-42
In this story, Jesus shows kindness to a Samaritan woman who has been marginalized by her community. Despite the social and cultural barriers between them, Jesus engages her in conversation and offers her the gift of living water.
His example inspires us to extend compassion to those who are different from us, recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of every individual.
Source:
1. American Psychiatric Association
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
