Everyone has values—core beliefs that guide how they live.
Some people value success, others value kindness, and some value faith above all else.
But where do values come from, and how do we know if our values align with what is truly important?
The Bible speaks a lot about values, showing us what matters most in the eyes of God.
Instead of following the ever-changing values of the world, Christians are called to build their lives on values that come from Scripture.
So, what does the Bible say about values?
Let’s explore the biblical foundation for values and how they shape the way we live.
God’s Word Sets the Standard for Values
The world’s values are always shifting.
What is considered right today may be questioned tomorrow.
But God’s values never change.
Psalm 119:105 says,
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
This verse reminds us that the Bible is our guide.
If we base our values on God’s Word, we will not be led astray.
Proverbs 3:5-6 also says,
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Instead of relying on personal opinions or cultural trends, believers are called to trust God’s wisdom.
His values lead to life, peace, and purpose.
Love Is the Greatest Value
If there is one value that stands above the rest in the Bible, it is love.
Jesus said in Matthew 22:37-39,
Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
This is the first and great commandment.
And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Love for God and love for others is at the heart of Christian values.
Without love, nothing else matters.
First Corinthians 13:2 says,
And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
Love is the foundation for every other godly value.
It shapes how we treat people, how we respond to challenges, and how we serve God.
Honesty and Integrity Matter to God
The Bible places a high value on honesty.
Proverbs 12:22 says,
Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight.
God values truth because He is truth.
Jesus said in John 14:6,
I am the way, the truth, and the life.
When we live with honesty and integrity, we reflect God’s character.
Proverbs 10:9 reminds us,
He that walketh uprightly walketh surely: but he that perverteth his ways shall be known.
Living with integrity means doing the right thing even when no one is watching.
It builds trust and shows that we are guided by godly values rather than selfish desires.
Humility Over Pride
The world often values pride, power, and self-promotion.
But the Bible teaches that humility is far more valuable.
James 4:6 says,
God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
Humility does not mean thinking less of ourselves.
It means recognizing that we are nothing without God.
Philippians 2:3 instructs,
Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
Jesus Himself showed the greatest example of humility when He left heaven to become a servant.
Philippians 2:7-8 describes His attitude,
But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.
And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
If Jesus valued humility, then His followers should as well.
Faithfulness in All Things
Faithfulness is another core value found in the Bible.
God values people who are committed, trustworthy, and steady in their faith.
Matthew 25:21 describes the reward for faithfulness,
His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
Faithfulness applies to all areas of life.
Being faithful in relationships, work, ministry, and responsibilities honors God.
Luke 16:10 says,
He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.
Small acts of faithfulness prepare us for greater responsibilities in God’s kingdom.
Kindness and Compassion Reflect God’s Heart
Kindness is not just a good personality trait—it is a biblical value.
Ephesians 4:32 says,
And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.
Jesus was moved with compassion when He saw people in need.
Mark 6:34 says,
And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things.
If kindness and compassion were important to Jesus, they should be important to us.
Galatians 6:9-10 encourages believers to continue doing good,
And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.
A life lived with kindness is a life that reflects Christ.
Self-Control Leads to Strength
The Bible values self-control because it protects people from sin and destruction.
Proverbs 25:28 compares a lack of self-control to a broken city,
He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.
Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit.
Galatians 5:22-23 says,
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.
Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
Having self-control helps people resist temptation, make wise choices, and honor God with their actions.
Seeking God Above All Else
One of the greatest values a person can have is putting God first.
Matthew 6:33 says,
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
When people put God above everything else, their values naturally align with His will.
Psalm 37:4 encourages,
Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
A heart that seeks God will value what He values.
This includes righteousness, justice, mercy, and truth.
Final Thoughts
The Bible teaches that values shape the way people live.
Godly values lead to peace, purpose, and fulfillment, while worldly values often lead to disappointment and destruction.
Scripture encourages believers to value love, honesty, humility, faithfulness, kindness, self-control, and seeking God above all else.
These values are not just good principles—they are foundations for a meaningful life.
By aligning our values with God’s truth, we build a life that honors Him and impacts the world for His glory.