Compassion and empathy are deeply rooted in the heart of Christian faith. Whether you’re comforting a friend, caring for someone in need, or simply trying to understand another’s struggles, these qualities help us live out God’s love in real ways. The Bible is rich with guidance on how to embody compassion and empathy, reminding us that God calls us to walk in kindness, humility, and mercy.
In times of pain or confusion, scripture can be a soothing balm. It encourages us to connect, support, and serve others—not just in words but in action. Below, you’ll find 15 carefully chosen Bible verses about compassion and empathy. Each one includes a short explanation to help you understand its context and meaning in a practical, down-to-earth way.
Let these verses speak to your heart, guide your relationships, and deepen your walk with God.
1. Ephesians 4:32
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Explanation:
This verse calls us to reflect God’s grace through kindness and forgiveness. Just as God has shown us mercy, we are urged to extend the same to others, especially in difficult times.
2. Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Explanation:
Here, believers are reminded to live in a way that reflects God’s love. Compassion is not just a feeling—it’s something we “wear” daily, influencing how we treat others.
3. 1 Peter 3:8
Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.
Explanation:
Peter encourages the church to maintain unity through empathy and humility. Compassion is essential for creating harmony and understanding within any community.
4. Matthew 9:36
When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.
Explanation:
Jesus modeled deep compassion for the hurting and lost. His response teaches us to see others not with judgment, but with mercy and care.
5. Romans 12:15
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
Explanation:
This verse is a simple yet profound call to empathy. It urges us to share in others’ emotional experiences, building true connection and support.
6. Galatians 6:2
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Explanation:
Helping others in their struggles reflects Christ’s love. This scripture emphasizes that living out compassion is a form of obedience to God’s will.
7. Proverbs 19:17
Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.
Explanation:
This verse shows that God values acts of kindness, especially toward the vulnerable. Serving others is seen as service to God Himself.
8. Isaiah 58:10
And if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.
Explanation:
True compassion is active. This verse promises that when we help others, especially those in need, we ourselves are renewed and blessed.
9. Luke 6:36
Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
Explanation:
Jesus challenges us to mirror God’s mercy in our daily lives. It’s a reminder that being compassionate is part of our spiritual identity.
10. Hebrews 13:3
Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.
Explanation:
This verse speaks to deep empathy. It invites us to truly imagine ourselves in others’ shoes, especially those facing hardship or injustice.
11. Zechariah 7:9
This is what the Lord Almighty said: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.’
Explanation:
God commands not only justice but also mercy. Compassion is seen here as a crucial part of living righteously and building a fairer world.
12. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
Explanation:
God comforts us so we can comfort others. This verse connects our personal experiences of God’s compassion to our calling to help others.
13. 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.
Explanation:
This well-known verse summarizes what God values: justice, mercy, and humility. Empathy flows naturally when we live these out.
14. 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?
Explanation:
Faith must be matched by action. True compassion involves meeting people’s real needs, not just offering kind words.
15. Psalm 103:13
As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him.
Explanation:
God’s love is like a parent’s deep care. This verse reassures us of God’s tender compassion, setting an example for how we should care for others.
Living Out Compassion and Empathy in Daily Life
The Bible makes it clear: compassion and empathy aren’t optional—they’re vital. These scriptures call us not only to feel for others but to act with kindness, mercy, and love. Whether it’s forgiving someone, supporting a struggling friend, or standing up for the hurting, each moment of compassion brings us closer to God’s heart.
Let these Bible verses about compassion and empathy inspire you to live with a more open heart. Reflect on them, pray over them, and let them guide your choices in everyday life.
What about you?
Which verse spoke to you the most? Do you have a favorite Bible verse about compassion and empathy? Share your thoughts, reflections, or personal stories in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!