As followers of Christ, we are called to live a life that reflects His love and compassion for others. Thinking of others is more than a kind gesture—it’s a core part of our faith and a reflection of the selfless love Jesus demonstrated. The Bible encourages us to serve, love, and lift one another up in humility and unity. Here are key themes from Scripture that challenge and inspire us to think of others before ourselves.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Leading Others to Christ
Serving Others in Love
True Christian love is expressed through acts of service. When we serve others, we imitate Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve. Serving others in love means we put aside selfish desires to meet the needs of those around us. It’s a powerful way to reflect Christ’s love and make a difference in people’s lives. These verses remind us of the importance of serving with humility and joy.
Galatians 5:13
“For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.”
Mark 10:45
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
John 13:14-15
“And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you.”
Philippians 2:3-4
“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.”
Romans 12:10-11
“Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically.”
Encouraging One Another
Encouragement is a vital way we can build each other up in the faith. Life can be hard, and a timely word of hope or support can uplift someone’s spirit and renew their strength. The Bible tells us to speak words that give life and to cheer each other on in love and truth. Here are verses that highlight the importance of encouraging others.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.”
Hebrews 10:24-25
“Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.”
Proverbs 12:25
“Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.”
Romans 15:2
“We should help others do what is right and build them up in the Lord.”
Isaiah 35:3-4
“With this news, strengthen those who have tired hands, and encourage those who have weak knees. Say to those with fearful hearts, ‘Be strong, and do not fear, for your God is coming to destroy your enemies. He is coming to save you.'”
Practicing Humility
Humility is the foundation of thinking of others. It means laying down pride and putting the needs and perspectives of others before our own. Jesus modeled humility throughout His life, especially in His willingness to suffer for our sake. The Bible reminds us to clothe ourselves in humility as we interact with others, valuing them above ourselves.
James 4:10
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.”
1 Peter 5:5
“In the same way, you who are younger must accept the authority of the elders. And all of you, dress yourselves in humility as you relate to one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.'”
Philippians 2:5-7
“You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being.”
Proverbs 11:2
“Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”
Micah 6:8
“No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”
Carrying Each Other’s Burdens
One of the greatest ways we can think of others is by helping them carry their burdens. Whether it’s emotional, physical, or spiritual support, the Bible teaches us to come alongside our brothers and sisters in Christ. In doing so, we fulfill the law of Christ—loving one another as He has loved us.
Galatians 6:2
“Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.”
Romans 12:15
“Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep.”
Job 2:11
“When three of Job’s friends heard of the tragedy he had suffered, they got together and traveled from their homes to comfort and console him.”
2 Corinthians 1:4
“He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”
Hebrews 13:16
“And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.”
Putting Others First
Thinking of others means putting their needs, feelings, and well-being ahead of our own. This doesn’t mean neglecting ourselves, but rather living with a heart of compassion and selflessness. The world teaches us to chase our own interests, but God’s Word shows us a better way—a life of putting others first in love and grace.
Matthew 7:12
“Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.”
Romans 12:3
“Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us.”
Philippians 2:1-2
“Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.”
Luke 6:31
“Do to others as you would like them to do to you.”
1 Corinthians 10:24
“Don’t be concerned for your own good but for the good of others.”
Also Read: Bible Verses About Accusing Others
Living in Unity
Unity in the body of Christ is essential. When we think of others, we create harmony and peace in our relationships. The Bible calls us to be peacemakers, to forgive freely, and to live in agreement with one another. These verses encourage us to maintain the unity of the Spirit and to build strong, loving communities rooted in Christ.
Psalm 133:1
“How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!”
Colossians 3:13-14
“Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.”
1 Corinthians 1:10
“I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose.”
Ephesians 4:2-3
“Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.”
Romans 15:5-6
“May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Giving Generously
Giving is a practical way to think of others and show God’s love. Whether it’s money, time, or resources, the Bible encourages us to give freely and cheerfully. Generosity blesses others, glorifies God, and multiplies blessings in our own lives. Here are verses that inspire us to live with open hands and giving hearts.
2 Corinthians 9:7
“You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. ‘For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.'”
Luke 6:38
“Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.”
Proverbs 11:25
“The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.”
1 Timothy 6:18
“Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others.”
Hebrews 13:16
“And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.”
Forgiving Others
Forgiveness is one of the most powerful ways we can think of others. It means releasing the right to hold something against someone and choosing grace instead. God has freely forgiven us through Christ, and He calls us to extend that same forgiveness to others. When we forgive, we reflect God’s mercy and allow healing and restoration to take place in our relationships. These verses show the heart of God when it comes to forgiving others.
Matthew 6:14-15
“If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
Colossians 3:13
“Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.”
Ephesians 4:31-32
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”
Luke 17:3-4
“So watch yourselves! If another believer sins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive. Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive.”
Mark 11:25
“But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.”