Putting others down is a harmful behavior that can damage relationships, hurt feelings, and go against the teachings of love and kindness in the Bible. The scriptures remind us to lift others up, speak with grace, and treat everyone with respect. Below are Bible verses that address the importance of avoiding the act of putting others down.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Enemies
Building Others Up Instead of Tearing Them Down
The Bible encourages us to use our words to build others up rather than tearing them down. Our speech should be seasoned with grace and aimed at edifying those around us. By focusing on the good in others and speaking life into their circumstances, we fulfill our calling to love one another.
Ephesians 4:29
“Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.”
This verse emphasizes the power of our words and the responsibility we have to use them wisely. Abusive language not only harms others but also reflects poorly on our character. Instead, we are called to speak in ways that uplift and encourage, bringing positivity and hope into the lives of those around us.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of mutual support within the community of believers. Encouragement and building each other up are central to maintaining unity and love among us. By fostering an environment of support, we can strengthen our relationships and grow together in faith.
Proverbs 15:4
“Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.”
This proverb highlights the contrast between kind words and harmful speech. Gentle, positive words can bring life and healing, while deceitful or hurtful speech can damage and discourage. We are called to choose our words carefully, recognizing their potential to either heal or harm.
Hebrews 3:13
“You must warn each other every day, while it is still ‘today,’ so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God.”
This verse urges believers to support and encourage one another daily. By speaking truth and encouragement, we help prevent each other from falling into sin and becoming hardened against God. Daily encouragement strengthens our faith and keeps us on the right path.
Proverbs 12:18
“Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.”
This verse illustrates the difference between harmful and healing speech. Cutting remarks can wound deeply, but wise words can bring comfort and restoration. We are encouraged to speak with wisdom, choosing words that will heal rather than hurt.
Judging Others Harshly
The Bible warns against harsh judgment, as it often stems from a place of pride and self-righteousness. Instead, we are called to approach others with humility and understanding, recognizing that we all fall short and need grace.
Matthew 7:1
“Do not judge others, and you will not be judged.”
This verse warns against the dangers of judging others. By focusing on the faults of others, we may become blind to our own shortcomings. Jesus teaches that judgment belongs to God alone, and we should be cautious in how we view and treat others.
James 4:12
“God alone, who gave the law, is the Judge. He alone has the power to save or to destroy. So what right do you have to judge your neighbor?”
This verse emphasizes that judgment is God’s domain, not ours. We do not have the authority to judge others, as we are all under the same law and in need of the same grace. This should lead us to treat others with compassion rather than condemnation.
Romans 14:10
“So why do you condemn another believer? Why do you look down on another believer? Remember, we will all stand before the judgment seat of God.”
This verse reminds us that we are all accountable to God, and not to each other, for our actions. Condemning or looking down on others is not our place, as we will all face the same judgment from God. Instead of judging, we should focus on our own walk with God.
Luke 6:37
“Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn others, or it will all come back against you. Forgive others, and you will be forgiven.”
Jesus teaches that the way we treat others will come back to us. If we judge or condemn, we invite the same treatment upon ourselves. Conversely, if we forgive and show mercy, we will receive the same in return. This principle encourages us to be gracious in our dealings with others.
Romans 2:1
“You may think you can condemn such people, but you are just as bad, and you have no excuse! When you say they are wicked and should be punished, you are condemning yourself, for you who judge others do these very same things.”
This verse points out the hypocrisy in judging others. Often, we are guilty of the same sins we condemn in others. Recognizing our own flaws should lead us to be more compassionate and less judgmental toward others.
The Power of Words
Words have immense power to build up or tear down. The Bible frequently addresses the impact of our speech, encouraging us to use our words wisely and with love. By speaking positively, we can foster peace and understanding in our relationships.
Proverbs 18:21
“The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.”
This proverb underscores the power of words. The tongue has the ability to cause great harm or bring life-giving encouragement. We are reminded that our words have consequences, and we should be mindful of how we use them. Speaking with care and consideration can lead to positive outcomes in our relationships.
James 3:5-6
“In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire.”
James highlights the destructive potential of the tongue. Though small, it can cause significant harm, much like a spark that ignites a forest fire. This vivid imagery serves as a warning to control our speech and avoid causing damage with our words.
Proverbs 21:23
“Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.”
This verse offers practical advice on the importance of controlling our speech. By being cautious with our words, we can avoid unnecessary conflict and trouble. Silence can often be wiser than speaking impulsively and causing harm to others.
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.”
Paul encourages believers to speak with grace and wisdom. Our words should reflect kindness and consideration, making our conversations pleasant and helpful. By doing so, we can effectively communicate and build positive relationships with others.
Proverbs 16:24
“Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.”
This proverb compares kind words to honey, emphasizing their sweetness and health benefits. Positive and encouraging speech can nourish the soul and contribute to overall well-being. We are called to speak kindly, bringing comfort and healing to those around us.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Fake Friends
Humility in Relationships
Humility is a key virtue in maintaining healthy relationships. The Bible teaches that we should consider others more important than ourselves, avoiding the pride that leads to putting others down. By adopting a humble attitude, we can foster love and unity.
Philippians 2:3
“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves.”
Paul encourages believers to adopt an attitude of humility. By putting others before ourselves, we avoid the selfishness and pride that lead to negative behaviors like putting others down. Humility fosters unity and strengthens relationships.
Romans 12:16
“Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!”
This verse highlights the importance of humility in building harmonious relationships. Pride can create barriers between us and others, while humility allows us to connect and relate to people from all walks of life. By letting go of pride, we can foster genuine connections.
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.'”
Peter emphasizes the value of humility in our interactions with others. God opposes pride, but He extends grace to the humble. By clothing ourselves in humility, we align with God’s will and create an environment where relationships can flourish.
Proverbs 11:2
“Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”
This proverb contrasts the outcomes of pride and humility. Pride often leads to disgrace and conflict, while humility brings wisdom and peace. By choosing humility, we can avoid the pitfalls of pride and cultivate healthy, respectful relationships.
James 4:10
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.”
James reminds us that humility is rewarded by God. When we humble ourselves, God honors us and lifts us up. This principle encourages us to approach others with humility, trusting that God will exalt us in due time, rather than seeking to elevate ourselves by putting others down.
Forgiving Others Instead of Criticizing
Forgiveness is a central theme in the Bible and is essential to maintaining healthy relationships. Instead of criticizing or holding grudges, we are called to forgive others as we have been forgiven by God. Forgiveness breaks the cycle of negativity and promotes healing and reconciliation.
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.”
Jesus teaches that our forgiveness is tied to our willingness to forgive others. Holding onto grudges and refusing to forgive can hinder our own relationship with God. By choosing to forgive, we reflect God’s grace and open the door to healing in our relationships.
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.”
This verse encourages us to be patient and forgiving towards others. We all have faults and make mistakes, so it is important to extend the same grace to others that we have received from God. Forgiveness fosters unity and allows relationships to thrive.
Ephesians 4:32
“Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”
Paul instructs believers to be kind, compassionate, and forgiving. Our forgiveness should mirror the forgiveness we have received from Christ. By choosing to forgive, we demonstrate God’s love and grace in our relationships, allowing healing and reconciliation to take place.
Luke 6:37
“Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn others, or it will all come back against you. Forgive others, and you will be forgiven.”
Jesus emphasizes the importance of forgiveness in this verse. The way we treat others—whether we judge, condemn, or forgive—will be reflected back to us. By choosing forgiveness over criticism, we align ourselves with God’s will and create a more loving and supportive environment.
Matthew 18:21-22
“Then Peter came to him and asked, ‘Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?’ ‘No, not seven times,’ Jesus replied, ‘but seventy times seven!'”
Jesus teaches that forgiveness should be limitless. Rather than keeping a count of how many times we forgive, we should be willing to forgive repeatedly, as God does for us. This principle encourages us to let go of grudges and continuously extend grace to others.
Love as the Guiding Principle
Love is the foundation of all Christian behavior, and it should guide how we interact with others. The Bible teaches that love is patient, kind, and never seeks to harm others. When we are motivated by love, we naturally avoid putting others down and seek to build them up instead.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.”
Paul’s description of love highlights its selfless and enduring nature. True love does not seek to harm or belittle others but is patient, kind, and always seeks the best for others. When we allow this kind of love to guide our actions, we avoid behaviors that put others down and instead build them up.
John 13:34-35
“So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”
Jesus commands His disciples to love one another as He has loved them. This love is meant to be the distinguishing mark of a follower of Christ. When we love others as Jesus loves us, we naturally avoid tearing them down and instead seek to uplift and encourage them.
1 John 4:7-8
“Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love.”
John emphasizes that love is the very nature of God, and those who truly know God will reflect His love in their lives. When we love others, we demonstrate that we belong to God and understand His heart. This love drives us to treat others with kindness and respect, avoiding harmful actions and words.
Romans 13:10
“Love does no wrong to others, so love fulfills the requirements of God’s law.”
This verse reminds us that love is the fulfillment of the law. When we love others, we naturally do no harm to them, thereby fulfilling all of God’s commandments. Love leads us to seek the good of others, avoiding any behavior that would put them down or cause them pain.
Colossians 3:14
“Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.”
Paul describes love as the binding force that holds the community of believers together. When we clothe ourselves in love, we create an environment of harmony and unity. This love prevents us from engaging in harmful behaviors and instead motivates us to support and encourage one another.
Encouraging One Another
Encouragement is a powerful tool in building up others and creating a positive community. The Bible urges believers to encourage one another, particularly in times of difficulty or doubt. By focusing on the strengths and potential of others, we can help them grow and thrive in their faith.
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.”
This passage encourages believers to be intentional in motivating and encouraging one another. By gathering together and supporting each other, we strengthen our faith and prepare for Christ’s return. Encouragement is vital to maintaining a vibrant and loving Christian community.
1 Thessalonians 5:14
“Brothers and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are lazy. Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone.”
Paul outlines various ways to encourage and support others within the Christian community. Whether it’s offering correction, encouragement, or care, the goal is to build up and strengthen one another. Patience and compassion are key to effectively encouraging others.
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.'”
This passage from Isaiah calls for encouragement to those who are weary and afraid. By reminding others of God’s promises and strength, we can help them find courage and hope in difficult times. Encouragement empowers others to persevere in their faith.
Proverbs 12:25
“Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.”
This proverb highlights the impact of encouragement on a person’s emotional well-being. A kind and encouraging word can lift the spirits of those who are weighed down by worry and anxiety. We are encouraged to speak life into others, helping them find joy and strength in difficult circumstances.
Galatians 6:2
“Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.”
Paul reminds us that sharing in each other’s struggles is a way of fulfilling Christ’s command to love one another. By offering encouragement and support, we help lighten the burdens of others and demonstrate Christ’s love in a tangible way. Encouragement is a key component of living out our faith in community.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Trust in Relationships
What Does the Bible Say About Putting Others Down
The Bible strongly discourages the act of putting others down, urging believers to uplift and encourage one another instead. Throughout its teachings, the Bible emphasizes the importance of treating others with respect, kindness, and love, as these are the principles that reflect God’s character and desires for human interactions. When someone puts others down, it not only harms the individual being belittled but also damages the community and relationships that are supposed to be built on mutual respect and understanding.
One of the core teachings of the Bible is the command to love your neighbor as yourself. This command, found in various parts of the Bible, including in the teachings of Jesus, highlights the importance of treating others with the same kindness and respect that one would want for themselves. When someone engages in behavior that puts others down, they are acting in direct opposition to this command, as they are failing to show the love and respect that they are called to give.
The Bible also teaches that words have immense power. The book of Proverbs, in particular, contains many verses that speak to the power of words, both to build up and to tear down. Words that are used to put others down are harmful and destructive, not only to the person being spoken to but also to the person speaking them. This is because such words often stem from a place of pride, insecurity, or a desire to elevate oneself by diminishing another, which are attitudes that the Bible condemns.
Furthermore, the Bible calls on believers to be peacemakers and to pursue harmony in their relationships. Putting others down creates conflict, division, and strife, which are the opposite of the peace that believers are called to cultivate. The Apostle Paul, in his letters to the early churches, often encouraged believers to speak only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. This directive underscores the importance of using words and actions to support and encourage others, rather than to tear them down.
Additionally, the Bible teaches that all people are made in the image of God and are therefore deserving of dignity and respect. When someone puts others down, they are failing to recognize the inherent worth and value of the other person, which is a serious offense in the eyes of God. Believers are called to see others through the lens of God’s love, recognizing that every person is valuable and worthy of being treated with kindness and respect.
In summary, the Bible strongly opposes the act of putting others down, as it goes against the core principles of love, respect, and peace that are central to the Christian faith. Instead, believers are encouraged to use their words and actions to uplift, encourage, and build others up, reflecting the love and grace that God has shown to all people.