There’s something beautiful about watching someone you love grow, accomplish something meaningful, or walk in faith. Whether it’s a child, a friend, or a fellow believer, feeling proud of someone is a reflection of love, support, and sometimes even godly joy. But what does the Bible say about these moments?
While the Bible warns against arrogance, it also shows that being proud of someone—when grounded in love, encouragement, and humility—is both good and God-honoring. Scripture gives us clear examples of God expressing delight in His people and of leaders commending others for their faith and growth.
In this post, we’ll explore 35 Bible verses about being proud of someone, each with a simple explanation to help you understand the deeper meaning.
Whether you’re a parent, mentor, or friend, these verses can inspire and guide your heart in lifting others up in love.
1. Philippians 1:3-5
I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.
Explanation:
Paul expresses pride and joy in the Philippians’ faithfulness and dedication. This verse shows how spiritual pride in someone’s walk with God is a reason for celebration and thanksgiving.
2. 2 Corinthians 7:4
I have great confidence in you; I take great pride in you. I am greatly encouraged; in all our troubles my joy knows no bounds.
Explanation:
Paul shares how the faith and perseverance of the Corinthians bring him joy and pride, even in hardship. It reminds us that seeing others grow spiritually can lift our spirits.
3. 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20
For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? Indeed, you are our glory and joy.
Explanation:
Paul calls the Thessalonians his pride and joy, showing that others’ faith journeys can be a source of deep joy and holy pride.
4. 2 Thessalonians 1:4
Therefore, among God’s churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring.
Explanation:
Paul doesn’t boast about his own success but celebrates the endurance of others. This teaches us to recognize and honor the faithfulness in others.
5. Proverbs 17:6
Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.
Explanation:
This proverb highlights mutual pride within families. Being proud of loved ones is natural and biblically affirmed when rooted in love.
6. 3 John 1:4
I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.
Explanation:
John speaks as a spiritual father, proud of those living out their faith. It affirms how mentors and parents can find joy in the faithfulness of those they’ve guided.
7. Romans 15:17
Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God.
Explanation:
Paul’s pride is rooted in what God has done through him and others. Godly pride gives credit to Christ rather than self.
8. Galatians 6:4
Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else.
Explanation:
This verse encourages healthy self-examination and personal pride in one’s growth—without unhealthy comparison.
9. 1 Corinthians 1:4-5
I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. For in him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge.
Explanation:
Paul expresses gratitude and pride for the Corinthians’ spiritual growth, showing us how to celebrate others’ progress in Christ.
10. 2 Corinthians 9:2
For I know your eagerness to help, and I have been boasting about it to the Macedonians, telling them that since last year you in Achaia were ready to give; and your enthusiasm has stirred most of them to action.
Explanation:
Paul is proud of the generosity of the believers and uses their good example to encourage others. Godly pride can motivate and inspire.
11. 1 Corinthians 15:58
Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
Explanation:
This is both encouragement and recognition of the hard work believers do. It’s a way of saying, “I’m proud of your perseverance.”
12. Proverbs 23:24
The father of a righteous child has great joy; a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him.
Explanation:
A clear expression of parental pride that comes from seeing children walk in wisdom and righteousness.
13. Matthew 25:21
His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’
Explanation:
God Himself shows approval and joy in the faithfulness of His people, setting an example for us to express sincere appreciation and pride in others’ dedication.
14. Romans 1:8
First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world.
Explanation:
Paul celebrates the reputation and witness of the Roman believers, reminding us that it’s right to be proud when someone’s faith impacts others.
15. Philippians 4:1
Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!
Explanation:
Paul refers to fellow believers as his “joy and crown”—a deep expression of pride and affection rooted in spiritual connection.
16. 2 Timothy 1:5
I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.
Explanation:
Paul honors Timothy’s spiritual heritage and expresses his pride in Timothy’s sincere faith.
17. Colossians 1:3-4
We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people.
Explanation:
Thanking God for others’ faith and love is a beautiful way to express godly pride and encouragement.
18. Psalm 127:3
Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.
Explanation:
This verse reflects the value of children, encouraging pride and gratitude for the gift of family.
19. 1 Thessalonians 3:9
How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you?
Explanation:
Paul’s joy in others’ faith is heartfelt and overflowing, showing how spiritual pride draws us closer to God in thankfulness.
20. Romans 16:19
Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.
Explanation:
Being proud of others’ obedience to God should lead to continued encouragement and guidance.
21. 1 Corinthians 16:17-18
I was glad when Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you. For they refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.
Explanation:
Paul shows appreciation and pride for faithful service, emphasizing the value of recognizing others’ contributions.
22. Philippians 2:19-22
I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon… I have no one else like him… But you know that Timothy has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me in the work of the gospel.
Explanation:
Paul expresses deep pride in Timothy’s loyalty and service, encouraging us to value faithful partnerships.
23. Acts 20:24
However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me…
Explanation:
This verse teaches the value of finishing well, and we can take pride in others when they commit fully to God’s call.
24. 2 Corinthians 3:2-3
You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone… written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God.
Explanation:
Paul says the people themselves are his testimony—showing us the deep pride and love leaders have for those they’ve guided.
25. Hebrews 6:10
God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.
Explanation:
Recognition of faithful service is biblical. We can be proud of others for their loving dedication.
26. Matthew 5:16
Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Explanation:
We can celebrate and be proud of the light others shine, as long as it ultimately brings glory to God.
27. Proverbs 10:1
A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son brings grief to his mother.
Explanation:
This wisdom verse affirms the joy and pride that comes from children who walk in wisdom.
28. 1 Timothy 4:12
Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.
Explanation:
When young people live godly lives, it’s a reason for great encouragement and pride among leaders and elders.
29. 2 Corinthians 1:14
…you can boast of us just as we will boast of you in the day of the Lord Jesus.
Explanation:
Mutual pride among believers is encouraged when it reflects shared growth in Christ.
30. Isaiah 62:3
You will be a crown of splendor in the Lord’s hand, a royal diadem in the hand of your God.
Explanation:
God Himself treasures His people. If God delights in us, it’s right to honor and be proud of one another in the Lord.
31. Luke 3:22
And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”
Explanation:
God the Father expresses pride in Jesus—modeling for us the beauty of affirming those we love.
32. Zephaniah 3:17
The Lord your God is with you… he will rejoice over you with singing.
Explanation:
God’s delight in His people shows us that expressing joy and pride in others is deeply godly.
33. 1 Samuel 2:26
And the boy Samuel continued to grow in stature and in favor with the Lord and with people.
Explanation:
Samuel’s growth brought honor to God and pride to those who nurtured him. We can celebrate others’ spiritual and personal growth.
34. Psalm 1:1-3
Blessed is the one… whose delight is in the law of the Lord… That person is like a tree planted by streams of water.
Explanation:
This image of thriving is something we can be proud to see in others—it reflects a life well-rooted in God.
35. Joshua 24:15
But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.
Explanation:
A strong, faithful household is a reason for godly pride. When others commit to serve the Lord, we can celebrate their resolve.
Final Thoughts: Celebrate Others with a Grateful Heart
Being proud of someone, when done in humility and love, is a deeply spiritual experience. These Bible verses about being proud of someone remind us that it’s not only okay—it’s good—to rejoice in others’ faith, growth, and good works. As long as the glory goes to God, we can honor and celebrate those around us.
Let this list be a reminder to encourage, uplift, and be thankful for the people in your life. And if someone has been proud of your journey, take a moment to thank God for their support.
What about you?
Have you been proud of someone’s faith, growth, or love? Share your favorite Bible verses or experiences in the comments below!