“The stranger who dwells among you shall be to you as one born among you, and you shall love him as yourself; for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.” – Leviticus 19:34
Acceptance of the Stranger
As we walk through life, we often encounter those who are different from us, whether by culture, beliefs, or background. The Bible encourages us to embrace these individuals as we would our own family or friends. Acceptance is a powerful way to show love and kindness, and we are reminded that we all have unique stories. The command to love the stranger resonates strongly with our everyday interactions, urging us not just to tolerate, but to appreciate and welcome those who are different. This command echoes throughout our scripture, showing us that God’s love knows no bounds and that we should reflect this in our actions. By loving the stranger, we create a community filled with understanding and compassion.
Leviticus 19:34
“The stranger who dwells among you shall be to you as one born among you, and you shall love him as yourself; for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.” – Leviticus 19:34
Deuteronomy 10:19
“Therefore love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.” – Deuteronomy 10:19
Exodus 22:21
“You shall not mistreat any widow or fatherless child. If you do mistreat them, and they cry out to me, I will surely hear their cry.” – Exodus 22:21
Hebrews 13:2
“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” – Hebrews 13:2
Matthew 25:35
“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” – Matthew 25:35
Compassion Towards Strangers
When we think of a stranger, we often carry preconceived notions based on appearances or stereotypes. However, the Bible urges us to let love be our guide. Compassion has the potential to bridge gaps between us and others who may feel like outsiders. We believe that each person has their own struggles, and reaching out to offer kindness can transform a stranger into a friend. This call to compassion goes hand-in-hand with the teachings of Jesus, who frequently associated with those marginalized by society. By showing compassion to strangers, we reflect God’s love and grace, and create environments where everyone feels valued.
Colossians 3:12
“Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.” – Colossians 3:12
James 2:1
“My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory.” – James 2:1
Luke 10:33-34
“But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion.” – Luke 10:33-34
1 Peter 4:9
“Show hospitality to one another without grumbling.” – 1 Peter 4:9
Romans 12:13
“Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.” – Romans 12:13
The Kindness of the Stranger
Kindness is a universal language. When we show kindness to strangers, we build connections that promote goodwill and understanding. The Bible encourages us to not only act kindly towards those we know but to extend that kindness to all, regardless of their background. Acts of kindness can range from simple smiles to offering help in times of need. We recognize that genuine kindness transcends barriers and can lead to meaningful relationships. By embodying kindness, we reflect the character of Christ, who consistently reached out to those in society that were considered outsiders. In doing so, we create opportunities for healing and community.
Proverbs 21:21
“Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.” – Proverbs 21:21
Galatians 6:10
“So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” – Galatians 6:10
Titus 3:4-5
“But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy.” – Titus 3:4-5
Matthew 7:12
“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” – Matthew 7:12
Luke 6:35
“But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High.” – Luke 6:35
Welcoming the Stranger
Welcoming a stranger is an important act that speaks volumes about our character and faith. The Bible instructs us to open our hearts and homes to those who might find themselves in unfamiliar places. Every time we welcome someone, we create a safe space for sharing and connecting, which can lead to enriched lives for both the host and the guest. We see numerous examples of hospitality in the scriptures, where welcoming others showcases God’s love in action. As we foster a spirit of welcome, we grow closer together as one family under God.
Romans 15:7
“Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” – Romans 15:7
Matthew 10:40
“Whoever receives you receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me.” – Matthew 10:40
2 Corinthians 9:13
“By their approval of this service, they will glorify God because of your submission that comes from your confession of the gospel of Christ and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others.” – 2 Corinthians 9:13
Psalms 146:9
“The Lord watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.” – Psalms 146:9
Acts 28:2
“The native people showed us unusual kindness, for they kindled a fire and welcomed us all because it had begun to rain and was cold.” – Acts 28:2
Learning from the Stranger
When we encounter strangers, we often miss the chance to learn from them. Each person carries wisdom and experiences that can enlighten us. The Bible encourages us to be open to learning from those around us, including strangers. Each interaction holds the potential for growth and understanding if we approach with an open heart and mind. In many stories, Jesus showed us that the marginalized had invaluable lessons to share, often challenging societal norms. By being receptive to the insights of others, we broaden our understanding and enrich our lives.
Proverbs 1:5
“Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.” – Proverbs 1:5
Matthew 7:24
“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” – Matthew 7:24
Proverbs 27:17
“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
Proverbs 18:2
“A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion.” – Proverbs 18:2
Job 12:12
“Wisdom is with the aged, and understanding in length of days.” – Job 12:12
God’s Protection for Strangers
God cares deeply for those who are considered strangers and outsiders. The Bible is filled with promises of protection and preservation for all, emphasizing that each individual is valued in God’s eyes. His heart is especially directed toward the marginalized and vulnerable. Knowing that God fiercely protects strangers reminds us that we, too, should offer the same protection and care to the outsiders in our communities. As we reflect God’s character through our love and support, we fulfill His command to care for the stranger.
Psalms 121:7
“The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life.” – Psalms 121:7
Psalm 146:9
“The Lord watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.” – Psalm 146:9
Isaiah 54:10
“For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.” – Isaiah 54:10
Jeremiah 22:3
“Thus says the Lord: Do justice and righteousness, and deliver from the hand of the oppressor him who has been robbed. And do no wrong or violence to the resident alien, the fatherless, and the widow, nor shed innocent blood in this place.” – Jeremiah 22:3
Zechariah 7:10
“Do not oppress the widow, the fatherless, the sojourner, or the poor, and let none of you devise evil against another in your heart.” – Zechariah 7:10
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the scriptures regarding the stranger, we realize how essential it is to embrace everyone with love and compassion. God calls us to accept, welcome, and protect those who are different from us. We must understand that every person, no matter their background, carries unique experiences and potential lessons for us all. By fostering kindness and compassion, we can create a loving community that mirrors God’s love.
We are reminded that being welcoming does not just create a comfortable environment. It allows us to grow as individuals and as a community. We learn from strangers as they teach us new perspectives and wisdom that enrich our lives. Protecting the stranger is also vital, as it reflects the heart of God, who watches over those who may be vulnerable in our society.
Let us walk forward together, acknowledging the vital role that kindness, compassion, and acceptance of the stranger plays in our faith. These principles hold the power to change lives—both ours and those we encounter. Let us continue to learn, grow, and shine God’s light through our actions.
For those eager to explore more topics, don’t miss our articles on Bible Verses About the Foreigner and Bible Verses About the Stranger. Each provides additional insights into how we can embrace and uplift those around us.