What makes a man truly godly?
Is it the way he carries himself, the decisions he makes, or the words he speaks?
The answer lies deeper than outward appearances.
A godly man reflects the heart and character of Christ, embodying values like humility, integrity, faithfulness, and love.
He isn’t defined by perfection but by his willingness to seek God’s will, grow in faith, and lead others by example.
In a world that often celebrates power, status, and independence, the characteristics of a godly man stand out as countercultural.
He prioritizes service over self, humility over pride, and dependence on God over reliance on his own strength.
These 33 verses provide insight into the qualities that define a godly man, offering encouragement for those striving to grow in Christlikeness and a guide for others seeking to recognize these traits in the men around them.
Bible Verses About the Characteristics of a Godly Man
1. 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.”
This verse outlines the foundation of a godly man’s character: justice, mercy, and humility.
A godly man prioritizes fairness and compassion in his actions, recognizing his dependence on God. This verse challenges men to live with integrity, showing love and humility in every relationship.
2. 1 Timothy 6:11
“But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.”
This verse calls a godly man to actively seek virtues that honor God.
Being a godly man requires deliberate effort to avoid temptation and cultivate qualities that reflect Christ. This verse reminds us that growth in godliness is a daily pursuit fueled by faith and discipline.
3. Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of accountability and community in a godly man’s life.
A godly man values relationships that challenge and encourage him to grow. This verse highlights the significance of surrounding oneself with others who inspire spiritual growth and strengthen character.
4. Ephesians 5:25
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
This verse sets a high standard of sacrificial love for a godly man in marriage.
A godly man demonstrates selflessness and commitment in his relationships, reflecting Christ’s love. This verse challenges men to lead with compassion, prioritizing the well-being of their loved ones.
5. Proverbs 20:7
“The righteous lead blameless lives; blessed are their children after them.”
This verse highlights the generational impact of a godly man’s integrity.
A man who walks in righteousness leaves a legacy of blessing for his family. This verse reminds us that a godly character not only honors God but also inspires and benefits future generations.
6. Colossians 3:23
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
This verse encourages diligence and excellence in a godly man’s work.
A godly man approaches every task with purpose, knowing he serves God through his efforts. This verse inspires men to dedicate their work to God, ensuring their actions glorify Him.
7. 2 Timothy 2:22
“Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of moral purity and spiritual focus.
A godly man strives to resist temptation and grow in faith, surrounding himself with others who seek God. This verse encourages intentionality in building a life centered on righteousness.
8. Psalm 112:1
“Blessed are those who fear the Lord, who find great delight in his commands.”
This verse highlights the joy and blessings that come from reverence for God.
A godly man finds strength and purpose in obedience to God’s Word. This verse challenges men to embrace God’s commands as a source of wisdom and fulfillment.
9. James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”
This verse underscores the value of patience, humility, and self-control.
A godly man practices active listening and measured responses, reflecting Christ’s character in his interactions. This verse encourages men to prioritize understanding and grace in their communication.
10. 1 Corinthians 16:13-14
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.”
This verse calls a godly man to combine strength with love in all he does.
A man of God balances resilience with compassion, staying vigilant in his faith. This verse challenges men to remain steadfast, leading with courage and kindness in every area of life.
11. Proverbs 4:23
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of protecting one’s heart and mind.
A godly man understands that his thoughts and desires shape his actions. This verse encourages vigilance over one’s inner life, ensuring that his motivations align with God’s truth.
12. Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”
This verse outlines the qualities that should define a godly man’s character.
A man of God strives to embody these fruits through his relationship with the Holy Spirit. This verse challenges men to cultivate these traits as evidence of God’s transformative work in their lives.
13. Titus 2:2
“Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance.”
This verse sets a standard for mature godly men.
A godly man demonstrates wisdom, self-discipline, and perseverance as he grows in faith. This verse reminds us that maturity in Christ is marked by steadfastness and integrity.
14. Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
This verse calls a godly man to be an example of Christ’s love and goodness.
A man of God lives in a way that points others to God, glorifying Him through his actions. This verse inspires men to shine brightly, reflecting God’s character in every area of life.
15. 1 Peter 3:7
“Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.”
This verse highlights the importance of respect and understanding in marriage.
A godly man honors his spouse as an equal partner in God’s grace. This verse challenges men to lead with compassion and humility, fostering a relationship rooted in mutual respect.
16. Philippians 2:3-4
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
This verse calls a godly man to live selflessly and humbly.
A man of God prioritizes the needs of others, following Christ’s example of servanthood. This verse reminds men that true greatness comes from humility and putting others first.
17. Isaiah 40:31
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
This verse emphasizes reliance on God for strength and perseverance.
A godly man draws his endurance and energy from his trust in God. This verse inspires men to lean on God’s power, especially during times of challenge and fatigue.
18. Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
This verse calls a godly man to pursue transformation through God’s Word.
A man of God resists worldly influences and seeks alignment with God’s will. This verse encourages men to continually renew their minds, allowing God to shape their thoughts and actions.
19. Psalm 1:1-3
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.”
This verse highlights the blessing of living a life rooted in God’s Word.
A godly man finds joy and strength in meditating on Scripture. This verse challenges men to prioritize God’s Word, using it as a foundation for righteous living.
20. 1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of encouragement and support in a godly man’s relationships.
A man of God seeks to uplift those around him, fostering a spirit of unity and love. This verse inspires men to be intentional in offering words and actions that strengthen others.
21. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
This passage describes the qualities of true, godly love that a man should embody.
A godly man demonstrates love through patience, kindness, and humility. This verse challenges men to love unconditionally, reflecting Christ’s love in their relationships and daily interactions.
22. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
This verse emphasizes reliance on God’s grace and strength in moments of weakness.
A man of God understands that his strength comes from the Lord, not from his own abilities. This verse reminds men to embrace their vulnerabilities, allowing God to work powerfully through them.
23. Matthew 20:26-28
“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
This verse calls a godly man to servant leadership, mirroring Christ’s example.
True greatness is found in service and humility. This verse inspires men to lead by putting the needs of others before their own, prioritizing sacrificial love and care.
24. Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
This verse highlights the importance of gentleness and self-control in communication.
A godly man practices restraint and wisdom in his words, seeking to foster peace. This verse encourages men to respond thoughtfully, avoiding conflict and promoting understanding.
25. 1 John 3:18
“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of love expressed through tangible actions.
A man of God shows his love not just through words but by serving others faithfully. This verse challenges men to live out their faith in practical, meaningful ways.
26. Ecclesiastes 12:13
“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.”
This verse sums up the foundation of a godly life: reverence for God and obedience to His Word.
A godly man lives with awe for God’s authority and strives to follow His instructions. This verse serves as a reminder of the centrality of God in every aspect of life.
27. Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
This verse calls a godly man to maintain a positive and virtuous mindset.
A man of God filters his thoughts through the lens of God’s truth and goodness. This verse encourages men to focus on what honors God, shaping their character and decisions.
28. 2 Peter 1:5-7
“For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.”
This verse outlines the qualities a godly man should cultivate as he grows in faith.
A man of God intentionally seeks to develop virtues that reflect Christ’s character. This verse challenges men to actively pursue spiritual growth, building on the foundation of faith.
29. Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
This verse reassures a godly man of God’s presence and support in all circumstances.
A man of God draws courage and strength from his relationship with the Lord. This verse inspires men to face challenges with faith, knowing God is always with them.
30. Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
This verse emphasizes forgiveness as a hallmark of godliness.
A godly man extends grace and forgiveness, reflecting the love of Christ. This verse encourages men to let go of bitterness and pursue reconciliation in their relationships.
31. 1 Peter 5:6-7
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
This verse calls a godly man to humility and dependence on God.
A man of God recognizes his need for God’s guidance and care. This verse challenges men to surrender their worries, trusting in God’s timing and provision.
32. 1 Timothy 3:2-3
“Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.”
This verse outlines qualities of leadership and godliness for men.
A godly man exemplifies integrity, self-control, and generosity. This verse inspires men to live in a way that reflects Christ, leading others with grace and wisdom.
33. Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
This verse calls a godly man to boldness and confidence in God’s presence.
A man of God faces life’s challenges with courage, grounded in God’s promises. This verse encourages men to trust in His strength and guidance, stepping boldly into their calling.
Our Thoughts on What the Bible Says About the Characteristics of a Godly Man
A godly man is not defined by outward success or societal standards but by his heart’s alignment with God’s character.
These 33 verses reveal that godliness is rooted in humility, faith, love, and a desire to serve others.
Such a man relies on God for strength, walks in obedience to His Word, and seeks to glorify Him in all areas of life.
In a world that often distorts masculinity, these Scriptures provide a timeless guide for living as a man after God’s heart.
A godly man leads with integrity, loves sacrificially, and builds others up through his words and actions.
May these verses inspire men to pursue Christlikeness and encourage all of us to recognize and support these qualities in the men around us.