When my grandfather passed away, we gathered around his favorite oak tree in the backyard, each holding a worn Bible or a small piece of folded paper. It was quiet, the kind of quiet that feels thick with emotion. One by one, family members stepped forward and read verses that meant something special to him—or to them. That afternoon, I learned how powerful Bible verses & Psalms For A Funeral can be. It’s not just for honoring the person who has passed, but for soothing the hearts of those left behind.
Since then, I’ve kept a small list tucked in the pages of my Bible. It’s filled with funeral Bible verses and comforting Scriptures I turn to when words feel hard to find. Whether you’re planning a service, writing a eulogy, or simply needing strength for the days ahead, these verses offer the timeless comfort and hope we all reach for in moments of grief. 
Why Scripture Matters at a Funeral
During a time when emotions run deep and words often fall short, the steady truth of Scripture gives us something to hold onto.
Funeral Bible verses remind us that death is not the end, and that love, faith, and spirit endure beyond what we can see. They offer comfort, express sorrow, and celebrate the life that was lived—all while pointing us toward hope.
Many families include Scriptures in the funeral service, printed on programs, spoken during readings, or shared quietly during moments of reflection.
Choosing the Right Bible Verses for a Funeral
When choosing Scripture for a funeral, think about the person’s life, their faith, and what would feel most honoring.
You might choose:
- Verses about eternal life and heaven
- Scriptures about peace and comfort
- Passages about hope and strength
- Psalms of lament and trust
You can include several verses, offering a full arc of emotion—acknowledging the pain of loss while celebrating the promise of everlasting life.
20 Popular Funeral Bible Verses and Scriptures
Here are 20 meaningful Bible verses to consider for a funeral, memorial service, or simply to find strength during a time of mourning:
1. John 14:1-3 (NIV)
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms…”
These words from Jesus offer deep reassurance and remind us that death is a homecoming.
2. Psalm 23:1-4 (KJV)
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures…”
A timeless passage offering peace and comfort with familiar imagery of care and rest.
3. 2 Timothy 4:7-8 (NIV)
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
This Scripture honors a life well lived and a faith steadfastly kept.
4. Revelation 21:4 (NIV)
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain…”
A verse that promises hope and healing beyond this life.
5. Matthew 5:4 (NIV)
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”
Short but deeply moving, this verse speaks to those left behind.
6. Romans 14:8 (NIV)
“If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord.”
A simple reminder that in life and death, we belong to God.
7. 1 Thessalonians 4:14 (NIV)
“For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.”
This verse speaks directly to the hope of resurrection.
8. Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 (NIV)
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die…”
Acknowledging life’s seasons can bring comfort during a funeral.
9. Isaiah 25:8 (NIV)
“He will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces…”
A powerful verse declaring death’s ultimate defeat.
10. Philippians 1:21 (NIV)
“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”
This Scripture reflects a deep faith and hope beyond earthly life.
11. Psalm 46:1 (NIV)
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
A reminder that even in our darkest days, God is near.
12. Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV)
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning…”
In sorrow, these words offer fresh hope.
13. Romans 8:38-39 (NIV)
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life… will be able to separate us from the love of God.”
Unbreakable love is a comforting theme for any memorial.
14. 2 Corinthians 5:1 (NIV)
“For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God…”
This verse paints death not as an end, but a new beginning.
15. Psalm 34:18 (NIV)
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Gentle words for hearts that feel fragile.
16. John 11:25-26 (NIV)
“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die…”
Jesus’s promise brings strength to those mourning.
17. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding…”
This passage encourages trust, even in confusion and sorrow.
18. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV)
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort…”
A reminder that God not only sees our pain but comforts us in it.
19. 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
Simple and deeply reassuring in times of deep grief.
20. Numbers 6:24-26 (NIV)
“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.”
This ancient blessing offers peace and comfort for any farewell.
20 Bible Verses to Include in a Funeral Program
When creating a funeral program or keepsake, shorter Scriptures often work beautifully. They can be placed near a photo, on a dedication page, or included within a eulogy.
Some excellent choices include:
- Psalm 46:1 — “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
- Ecclesiastes 3:1 — “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
- Numbers 6:24-26 — “The Lord bless you and keep you.”
Comforting Bible Verses For A Funeral
These scriptures bring comfort, reminding us that God’s presence is steady and sure, even when we feel most fragile.
1. Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God…”
2. Matthew 5:4
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”
3. John 14:27
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives…”
4. Psalm 147:3
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
5. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
“Praise be to the God… who comforts us in all our troubles…”
6. Nahum 1:7
“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.”
7. Revelation 21:4
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain…”
8. Joshua 1:9
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you…”
Eternal Life Bible Verses For A Funeral
When we say goodbye, we hold fast to the promise that death is not the end.
9. John 11:25-26
“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die…”
10. 2 Timothy 4:7-8
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith…”
11. 1 Corinthians 15:54-55
“Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”
12. Romans 6:23
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
13. Philippians 3:20-21
“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ…”
14. John 5:24
“Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes… has crossed over from death to life.”
15. 1 Peter 1:3-4
“In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope… into an inheritance that can never perish…”
Mourning and Grief Bible Verses For A Funeral
When grief feels overwhelming, scripture reminds us that sorrow is seen and understood by God.
16. Lamentations 3:31-32
“For no one is cast off by the Lord forever. Though he brings grief, he will show compassion…”
17. Ecclesiastes 3:1, 4
“There is a time for everything… a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.”
18. Psalm 6:6-9
“I am worn out from my groaning. All night long I flood my bed with weeping… The Lord has heard my cry for mercy…”
19. Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
20. Romans 8:26
“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes…”
21. Psalm 55:22
“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”
Hopeful Bible Verses for Funerals
Even when hearts are broken, the Bible gives us hope that new joy will come.
22. Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him…”
23. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”
24. Isaiah 40:31
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength…”
25. Hebrews 6:19
“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.”
26. Psalm 30:11
“You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy.”
27. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14
“We do not want you to be uninformed… so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.”
Short Bible Verses for Funeral Readings
Sometimes, a few simple words say everything the heart needs to hear.
28. Proverbs 3:5
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
29. Psalm 34:4
“I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.”
30. Psalm 119:50
“My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.”
Tips for Reading Bible Verses at a Funeral
If you are asked to read Scripture during a service, here are a few gentle reminders:
- Speak slowly and clearly. Emotion may catch you off guard, and that’s okay.
- Introduce your verse with a short sentence. It helps listeners connect.
- Pause after reading. Let the words rest quietly in the room.
- Remember your purpose. You’re not performing. You’re offering love and comfort.
Final Thoughts
Funeral Bible verses and Scriptures are more than just words on a page. They are ancient promises, sacred songs, and steady reminders that even in grief, we are not alone.
When my family stood under that oak tree years ago, Scripture stitched us together. It didn’t erase the pain, but it gave us words when we had none of our own. It still does.
If you’re searching for verses today, know that you don’t need the “perfect” ones. Whatever you choose will carry the spirit of remembrance, hope, and love—and that is enough.
Psalms for a Funeral: Words of Comfort and Strength
Psalms have long been a source of comfort during times of grief. They are songs and prayers that give voice to sorrow, hope, and trust in God’s unchanging love. Whether read aloud during a service or quietly reflected upon, these passages bring a peace that speaks beyond words.
Here are 20 beautiful Psalms that are fitting for a funeral or memorial service:
1. Psalm 23:1-4
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures…”
One of the most beloved and often-read passages, offering deep peace and trust in God’s care.
2. Psalm 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
A gentle promise for those mourning and feeling fragile.
3. Psalm 46:1-2
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear…”
A reminder that even in our deepest sorrow, we are not alone.
4. Psalm 90:1-2
“Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations…”
This passage speaks to the timelessness of God’s presence, across generations.
5. Psalm 121:1-2
“I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord…”
An expression of seeking strength from God during hard times.
6. Psalm 27:1
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?”
Bright words for dark days.
7. Psalm 30:5
“Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.”
A beautiful reminder that sorrow will not have the final word.
8. Psalm 31:24
“Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.”
Simple, strong encouragement for grieving hearts.
9. Psalm 62:1-2
“Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation…”
For moments when hearts are seeking stillness and safety.
10. Psalm 116:15
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants.”
Tender words about the significance of each life in God’s eyes.
11. Psalm 25:1-2
“In you, Lord my God, I put my trust.”
A simple, profound prayer of surrender and faith.
12. Psalm 73:26
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
A verse of strength when physical and emotional exhaustion weigh heavy.
13. Psalm 86:15
“But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.”
Words that remind us of God’s enduring kindness.
14. Psalm 37:23-24
“The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall…”
This passage speaks to God’s guidance, even through life’s hardest paths.
15. Psalm 16:8
“I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.”
An anchor for wavering souls.
16. Psalm 91:1-2
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.”
Beautiful imagery of safety and refuge.
17. Psalm 42:11
“Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God…”
An honest reflection of grief and encouragement to hope.
18. Psalm 139:7-10
“Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?”
A reminder that even in death, we are never outside of God’s loving reach.
19. Psalm 84:1-2
“How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord Almighty! My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord…”
A tender longing for God’s eternal home.
20. Psalm 103:15-17
“The life of mortals is like grass, they flourish like a flower of the field… But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him.”
Words that acknowledge the brevity of life and the everlasting nature of God’s love.
How to Use Psalms in a Funeral or Memorial
You can incorporate these Psalms in many ways:
- Opening readings to set a tone of peace
- Reflections during a eulogy
- Printed on a memorial program or card
- Quiet moments of meditation during the service
There’s no wrong way to use them. Sometimes, just reading a Psalm slowly and letting the words settle can bring more comfort than the most carefully written speech.
