Funerals are a time when words fall short, and hearts are heavy with grief. Yet, even in sorrow, God’s Word provides comfort, hope, and assurance. While many turn to New Testament passages that speak of eternal life and resurrection, the Old Testament also holds deep treasures of encouragement for those mourning the loss of a loved one. These ancient scriptures remind us of God’s presence in our darkest valleys, His promises of refuge, and His compassion for the brokenhearted.
From Psalms that speak of God as our Shepherd to Isaiah’s assurances of peace, the Old Testament scriptures provide language for lament, prayer, and hope. They remind us that mourning is part of the human story, but so too is God’s faithfulness and unfailing love. These verses not only comfort the grieving but also affirm God’s sovereignty, mercy, and care for His people.
The Old Testament reveals God’s nature as a refuge in trouble, a rock of stability in sorrow, and the One who promises ultimate restoration. At funerals, these scriptures can be read aloud to remind mourners that they are not alone in their pain and that God’s presence surrounds them. They are reminders that death does not have the final word because the God who sustained His people in the past continues to comfort and strengthen His people today.
This collection of 45 Old Testament Scriptures for Funerals offers words of peace, hope, and reflection. Each passage is a balm for the soul, pointing us to God’s promises and steady love. As you read, may these verses bring comfort to your heart, lift your spirit, and reassure you of God’s presence even in grief.
You can also explore our collection of New Testament scriptures for funerals, as well as, the most comforting bible verses for funerals.
45 Comforting Old Testament Scriptures for Funerals in 2025
1. Psalm 23:1-4
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”
Psalm 23 is perhaps the most well-known scripture read at funerals. It offers assurance that even in the darkest valleys, God is present as our Shepherd. For those grieving, these verses remind us that death is not a solitary journey—we are guided by a loving God who leads us to peace and restoration. His presence comforts us, and His guidance sustains us. At funerals, this passage reassures mourners that their loved one is safe in God’s care, and that His comfort extends to those left behind. Truly, God is the Shepherd who never abandons His flock.
2. Isaiah 41:10
“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
At funerals, fear and uncertainty often fill the hearts of the grieving. Isaiah 41:10 speaks directly into those emotions with God’s assurance of His presence and strength. The verse reminds us that we are never alone, even in times of loss. God promises to strengthen and uphold us with His righteous hand. This passage comforts mourners by assuring them that God’s help is near and His presence is unshakable. In moments of sorrow, this scripture becomes a source of courage, reminding us that the Lord walks with us through grief and provides the strength we need to endure.
3. Lamentations 3:22-23
“It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”
Funerals can leave us overwhelmed with grief, yet Lamentations 3:22-23 reminds us of God’s unfailing compassion. Even in sorrow, His mercy sustains us, and His faithfulness never ceases. For mourners, this verse offers hope that every day brings renewed strength from God’s love. It assures us that grief does not consume us, because His mercy carries us forward. This scripture is often read at funerals to remind the grieving of God’s enduring faithfulness, offering light in the darkest times. God’s compassions are fresh each morning, bringing hope and healing even after deep loss.
4. Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
This short yet powerful verse speaks directly to the hearts of those grieving. Psalm 46:1 proclaims God as our refuge and strength—a safe haven when we are overwhelmed by loss. Funerals are moments when people desperately need assurance of God’s nearness. This passage reminds mourners that God is not distant but “very present” in times of trouble. His strength sustains us when our own strength fails, and His refuge provides comfort amid sorrow. For the grieving, this verse offers reassurance that God is both protector and helper, walking alongside us in our deepest pain.
5. Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die…”
This verse acknowledges the natural rhythm of life and death. Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 reminds us that death, though painful, is part of God’s divine order. At funerals, these words bring perspective: every life has a season, and God appoints each moment with purpose. For the grieving, it reassures them that their loved one’s life was meaningful and part of God’s plan. While we mourn the ending of a season, we also honor the beauty of the time given. This passage helps mourners accept loss while holding on to the truth that all seasons are guided by God’s wisdom.
6. Psalm 34:18
“The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.”
This verse offers tender reassurance for those mourning. In times of grief, hearts are broken, and spirits feel crushed under the weight of loss. Psalm 34:18 reminds us that God draws near to the brokenhearted, offering His presence as comfort and His salvation as hope. Funerals are moments when these words bring healing, assuring mourners that God is especially close in sorrow. He does not turn away from pain but moves toward it, bringing peace to troubled hearts. This scripture is often read to remind families that God’s nearness is a balm to their grief.
7. Isaiah 25:8
“He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from off all faces…”
Isaiah prophesies of God’s ultimate triumph over death, offering hope to all who mourn. At funerals, this verse reminds us that death is not final but will one day be swallowed up in victory. God Himself promises to wipe away every tear, bringing comfort and restoration. For grieving families, this scripture points to the hope of eternal peace in God’s presence. While sorrow may overwhelm now, God’s promise assures us of a future without death or pain. This verse comforts the brokenhearted with the assurance of God’s victory over death itself.
8. Psalm 90:12
“So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.”
Funerals prompt reflection on the brevity of life, and Psalm 90:12 calls us to embrace this truth. This verse teaches us to number our days, recognizing that life is short but full of purpose. For the grieving, it provides perspective: while death brings sorrow, it also reminds us to live wisely, treasuring every moment. This passage comforts mourners by urging them to seek God’s wisdom in life’s fleeting nature. By numbering our days, we gain clarity, learning to live meaningfully and faithfully. In the face of loss, this scripture brings both comfort and perspective.
9. Deuteronomy 31:8
“And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.”
This verse is a powerful assurance of God’s constant presence. In the sorrow of funerals, mourners need the reminder that they are not alone. God promises to go before us, to walk beside us, and to never forsake us. For grieving families, this passage provides courage to face the future with hope, knowing God is faithful. It teaches us that His presence is a shield against despair. This scripture is often shared to strengthen hearts weighed down by loss, offering peace that God will never abandon us, even in grief.
10. Psalm 121:1-2
“I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.”
This beloved psalm directs our eyes upward in times of sorrow. At funerals, these words encourage mourners to seek their strength from God, the Maker of heaven and earth. Grief often makes us feel helpless, but Psalm 121 reminds us that divine help is always available. For those grieving, this scripture reassures them that God, who created all things, is their source of help and comfort. Looking to Him lifts hearts above despair and provides hope in mourning. It is a powerful reminder that God’s strength is greater than our sorrow.
11. Isaiah 57:1-2
“The righteous perisheth, and no man layeth it to heart: and merciful men are taken away, none considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil to come. He shall enter into peace: they shall rest in their beds, each one walking in his uprightness.”
This verse provides perspective on the death of the righteous. At funerals, these words remind us that those who pass in righteousness are spared from future trouble and enter into peace. For mourners, it is a reassurance that their loved one now rests securely in God’s care. This passage teaches us that death for the faithful is not punishment but peace and relief. Families grieving the loss of a loved one can find comfort in knowing that God has granted them eternal rest. It brings hope in sorrow, affirming God’s mercy in the face of death.
12. Psalm 73:26
“My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.”
This verse speaks directly to the frailty of human life. At funerals, when hearts are heavy and bodies feel weak from grief, this scripture reassures us that God is our strength and eternal portion. For mourners, it is a reminder that while human life is fragile, God’s strength is everlasting. This passage comforts families by pointing them to God as their source of hope and security, both now and forever. In moments when hearts feel like they are failing, this verse declares God as the eternal strength that sustains us.
13. Psalm 116:15
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.”
This verse assures us that the death of the faithful is not meaningless but precious in God’s eyes. At funerals, it comforts mourners by reminding them that their loved one’s passing holds value to God, who welcomes them home. For believers, this verse provides hope that God views the departure of His saints not with despair but with divine love. It teaches us that every life matters deeply to the Lord, and every faithful departure is honored in heaven. Families grieving can rest in the assurance that God holds their loved one close.
14. Job 19:25-26
“For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God.”
These powerful words from Job express confidence in the Redeemer’s eternal victory. At funerals, this passage provides assurance that even after death, believers will see God face-to-face. For mourners, it is a reminder that physical death is not the end. The promise of resurrection and eternal life brings hope to grieving hearts. Job’s declaration of faith inspires strength and confidence in God’s plan for eternity. This scripture assures families that their loved one, though departed, will one day stand before God in glory, experiencing the fullness of redemption.
15. Psalm 27:1
“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”
This verse is a powerful proclamation of God’s protection and strength. At funerals, when fear and sorrow weigh heavily, it reassures mourners that God is their light and salvation. For the grieving, it is a reminder that fear and despair do not have the final word because God is our strength. This passage encourages families to trust in God’s sustaining power during their time of loss. By declaring the Lord as both light and salvation, this scripture comforts mourners with the assurance that God’s presence conquers fear and brings lasting peace.
16. Psalm 9:9
“The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.”
Funerals are undeniably times of trouble, when hearts feel pressed down by grief. This verse reassures us that God Himself is our refuge. For mourners, it reminds them that when sorrow feels overwhelming, they can find safety and comfort in His presence. God is not distant in suffering; He is a shelter that shields us in our pain. At funerals, this scripture brings peace by pointing mourners to God’s protective embrace, assuring them that He is their safe place in the midst of despair and a source of strength in sorrow.
17. Isaiah 40:31
“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”
In grief, strength often fails. This verse from Isaiah offers hope that those who wait upon the Lord will find renewal. For the grieving, it promises that God will restore their weary hearts and lift them above despair. Funerals can feel like a heavy burden, but this scripture reassures us that God’s strength is endless. Mourning hearts are encouraged that their loved one now soars with the Lord and that God’s Spirit will sustain them. It is a verse of hope and renewal, teaching that grief will not consume us when we wait upon the Lord.
18. Psalm 30:5
“For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.”
This verse acknowledges both grief and hope. Funerals are filled with weeping, yet Psalm 30:5 reminds us that sorrow is temporary, and joy will one day return. For mourners, this scripture is a source of comfort, teaching that though mourning is real and painful, God promises eventual restoration. It reflects God’s mercy and favor, which bring life even after loss. At funerals, this verse points mourners to the hope of brighter days and the assurance that God’s love will break through grief with joy in His time.
19. Joshua 1:9
“Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”
This verse brings courage and strength to those facing difficult journeys, including grief. Funerals are moments when hearts feel afraid and overwhelmed. Joshua 1:9 reassures us that God’s presence is constant, even in the valley of sorrow. For mourners, it is encouragement to press forward with courage, knowing they are not alone. This passage teaches that God’s companionship is the antidote to despair. At funerals, these words offer strength to the grieving, reminding them that God’s presence goes with them, comforting them wherever they go, and guiding them through the pain of loss.
20. Psalm 61:2
“From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.”
This verse gives language to the deep cry of the grieving heart. Funerals are moments when hearts feel overwhelmed by sorrow, but Psalm 61:2 directs us to cry out to God. For mourners, it is a reminder that God is the rock—steady, unmovable, and higher than our troubles. He lifts us when we cannot carry ourselves and gives us strength beyond our own. This scripture comforts families by encouraging them to lean on God as their strong foundation, especially when grief feels unbearable. He is the Rock who sustains us in sorrow.
21. Isaiah 43:2
“When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.”
God promises His presence through life’s trials, and funerals are among the most painful of these. This verse comforts mourners with the assurance that even in overwhelming grief, God will not let them be consumed. For families in sorrow, it is a promise that God walks with them through the waters of loss and the fire of pain. This passage reminds us that grief does not destroy us because God’s presence sustains us. Funerals become moments of hope when mourners rest in this truth—that God is with them in every trial.
22. Psalm 147:3
“He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.”
This verse is a healing balm for funerals. Grief wounds the heart deeply, but Psalm 147:3 assures us that God heals and binds up brokenness. For mourners, it is a promise of divine comfort—that God sees their pain and actively works to mend it. This passage teaches that while human words may fall short, God’s presence brings true healing. Funerals are heavy with sorrow, but this scripture reassures families that their grief is not ignored. The Lord, as the Great Healer, tenderly cares for the wounded heart, restoring hope with His compassion.
23. Ecclesiastes 12:7
“Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.”
This verse reflects on the finality of earthly life and the eternal destiny of the soul. At funerals, Ecclesiastes 12:7 brings perspective, reminding us that while the body returns to dust, the spirit returns to God. For mourners, it affirms the eternal nature of life beyond death. This scripture comforts families by pointing them to the assurance that their loved one’s spirit is in God’s care. It highlights the truth that life is a gift from God and that, in death, we ultimately return to Him who gave us breath.
24. Psalm 31:24
“Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.”
This verse is a call to courage and hope in the midst of sorrow. Funerals can weaken the heart, leaving families weary and burdened. Psalm 31:24 assures mourners that those who place their hope in the Lord will be strengthened. For the grieving, it is encouragement to trust God’s sustaining power, knowing He provides courage when fear and despair press in. This scripture teaches us that God rewards those who hope in Him with renewed strength. It comforts mourners by promising that their broken hearts will be strengthened by God’s presence.
25. Isaiah 49:13
“Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; and break forth into singing, O mountains: for the Lord hath comforted his people, and will have mercy upon his afflicted.”
This verse proclaims God’s comfort for His people. Funerals are heavy with affliction, but Isaiah 49:13 assures us that God is full of mercy for the grieving. For mourners, it is a reminder that even in sorrow, heaven rejoices in God’s comfort and mercy. This passage teaches that God does not leave His people in despair but meets them with compassion. At funerals, this scripture can uplift hearts by pointing them to the Lord’s merciful character. His comfort is real, and His mercy brings hope even in the darkest of times.
26. Psalm 48:14
“For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death.”
This verse affirms God’s eternal guidance, even at the end of life. At funerals, it comforts mourners with the truth that God remains faithful beyond death. For families grieving, it is a reminder that their loved one did not walk alone but was guided by God into eternity. This passage teaches us that God’s care extends beyond earthly life, offering assurance that He leads us safely through death into His presence. Mourners find hope knowing that the same God who walks with them in life continues to be faithful through death and beyond.
27. Isaiah 51:11
“Therefore the redeemed of the Lord shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head…”
This verse paints a picture of restoration and joy for God’s redeemed. Funerals often feel heavy with sorrow, but Isaiah 51:11 reminds us that God promises everlasting joy for His people. For mourners, this scripture brings hope that their loved one now rests in eternal gladness, free from sorrow and mourning. It teaches us that while grief is present, joy is the believer’s eternal destiny. This passage comforts families with the assurance that sorrow is temporary, but everlasting joy in God’s presence is forever.
28. Psalm 37:39
“But the salvation of the righteous is of the Lord: he is their strength in the time of trouble.”
This verse reminds us that God is the strength of His people. At funerals, when mourners are weighed down by trouble, Psalm 37:39 offers encouragement that God upholds the righteous. For families, it is reassurance that their loved one’s salvation rests in God alone, and that He now strengthens those left behind. This passage highlights God’s role as deliverer and sustainer, giving peace to grieving hearts. Funerals become opportunities to lean on the Lord, trusting His strength to carry us through the darkest times and celebrating His salvation that never fails.
29. Isaiah 61:1-2
“…he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives… to comfort all that mourn.”
This prophetic passage speaks of God’s mission to bring comfort and healing. At funerals, Isaiah 61 assures mourners that God Himself tends to broken hearts. For grieving families, it is hope that God sees their pain and promises comfort. This scripture reminds us that mourning is not ignored by God but is met with His healing presence. It highlights His desire to exchange sorrow for peace. Families can rest in the truth that God draws near to comfort all who mourn, binding up their brokenness and offering them His divine consolation.
30. Psalm 55:22
“Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.”
This verse invites the grieving to give their burdens to God. Funerals are filled with heavy hearts, but Psalm 55:22 promises that God will sustain those who trust Him. For mourners, it is reassurance that they don’t have to carry sorrow alone—God bears their grief and steadies their hearts. This passage teaches us that His sustaining power keeps us firm even in times of deep loss. Families can take comfort in the Lord’s promise of unwavering support, knowing that His presence holds them secure when grief feels overwhelming.
31. Isaiah 66:13
“As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you; and ye shall be comforted in Jerusalem.”
This tender verse compares God’s comfort to that of a loving mother. Funerals bring profound grief, but Isaiah 66:13 assures mourners of God’s intimate care. For families, this scripture offers the picture of God drawing close with nurturing compassion, meeting them in their sorrow. It teaches us that God’s comfort is not distant but personal and tender, as a parent consoles a hurting child. This verse brings peace to those grieving, reminding them that the Lord Himself is the source of true comfort, wrapping them in His everlasting arms of love.
32. Psalm 18:2
“The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust…”
This verse proclaims God as a strong refuge in times of distress. Funerals often leave families feeling vulnerable, but Psalm 18:2 reminds them that God is their fortress and strength. For mourners, it is reassurance that even when life feels shaken, God is the unmovable Rock on which they can stand. This passage teaches us that trust in God provides security when grief overwhelms. Families find comfort in knowing that God protects, sustains, and delivers them. Funerals become moments to lean fully on the Lord, who remains a stronghold forever.
33. Isaiah 35:10
“And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads…”
This verse speaks of the everlasting joy awaiting God’s people. Funerals remind us of loss, but Isaiah 35:10 offers hope of eternal rejoicing. For mourners, it is comfort to know that their loved one, redeemed by God, is now filled with joy in His presence. This scripture teaches us that sorrow and sighing will one day vanish, replaced by everlasting gladness. Families grieving a loss can hold on to the truth that God’s people are destined for joy, not despair. This verse lifts hearts by pointing to the eternal hope in God’s promises.
34. Psalm 119:50
“This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me.”
This verse emphasizes the life-giving power of God’s Word. At funerals, when affliction presses heavily, Psalm 119:50 offers reassurance that scripture itself provides comfort. For mourners, it is encouragement to lean on God’s promises, which revive the soul and sustain faith. This passage reminds us that while grief weakens us, God’s Word breathes life and hope into weary hearts. Funerals become moments when His Word brings strength, reminding families that God’s truth will never fail. Comfort is found not in circumstances but in the unchanging promises of the Lord.
35. Proverbs 14:32
“The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death.”
This verse affirms the hope that belongs to the righteous, even in death. Funerals can feel hopeless, but Proverbs 14:32 assures mourners that for the righteous, death is not the end—it is the doorway to hope. For families, it is a reminder that their loved one who trusted in God is secure in His care. This passage teaches us that while wickedness leaves people without comfort, righteousness anchors us in God’s eternal promises. Funerals become opportunities to declare the blessed hope found in the Lord, offering strength to the grieving.
36. Psalm 4:8
“I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.”
This verse paints a peaceful picture of rest under God’s care. At funerals, Psalm 4:8 offers comfort by reminding us that death for the faithful is like resting in God’s safety. For mourners, it is assurance that their loved one is at peace in the Lord’s presence. This passage teaches us that God provides security even beyond life, allowing His children to rest safely. Families can find comfort in knowing their loved one dwells securely with God, free from fear or harm, embraced by His eternal peace.
37. Isaiah 26:19
“Thy dead men shall live, together with my dead body shall they arise…”
This verse speaks of resurrection and the promise of life beyond death. At funerals, Isaiah 26:19 assures mourners that death is not final—God will raise His people. For families grieving, it is hope that their loved one will rise again in God’s power. This scripture teaches us that God’s promises extend beyond the grave, offering assurance of eternal life. Funerals become moments of both mourning and hope, as families cling to the truth that God will one day awaken His people to everlasting joy.
38. Psalm 116:7
“Return unto thy rest, O my soul; for the Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee.”
This verse invites the soul to rest in God’s goodness. At funerals, Psalm 116:7 offers comfort by reminding mourners that the soul of their loved one now rests in the Lord. For families, it is assurance that God deals bountifully with His children, even in death. This passage teaches us that rest is a gift from God, and in His presence, there is peace beyond earthly struggles. Funerals are moments to reflect on God’s goodness and trust that the departed soul now enjoys eternal rest with Him.
39. Isaiah 33:2
“O Lord, be gracious unto us; we have waited for thee: be thou their arm every morning, our salvation also in the time of trouble.”
This verse is a prayer for God’s grace and strength in trouble. Funerals are times of deep need, and Isaiah 33:2 reminds mourners to call on God for salvation and daily strength. For grieving families, it is a prayer of dependence on God’s sustaining power. This passage teaches us that every morning, God renews His mercies, providing help in sorrow. Funerals become opportunities to lean on His grace, asking Him to be the strength that carries the brokenhearted through their grief. God’s salvation is present even in the deepest loss.
40. Psalm 92:12-14
“The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon…”
This verse celebrates the enduring legacy of the righteous. At funerals, Psalm 92 offers comfort by affirming that the lives of the faithful are fruitful and flourishing. For families, it is encouragement to remember their loved one’s lasting influence and faithfulness. This scripture teaches that those who walk with God remain strong and vibrant even into old age, bearing fruit that blesses others. Funerals become times to honor this enduring legacy, giving thanks for lives lived in righteousness and pointing to the flourishing that continues in God’s eternal presence.
41. Isaiah 12:2
“Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.”
This verse proclaims trust in God’s saving power. At funerals, Isaiah 12:2 offers assurance that God is both strength and salvation. For mourners, it is encouragement to trust in Him, even in the face of loss. This passage teaches us that God’s presence removes fear and replaces it with strength and peace. Funerals become testimonies of God’s saving power, reminding families that their loved one is safe in His care. Confidence in God’s salvation transforms grief into hope, anchoring hearts in His eternal promises.
42. Psalm 34:4
“I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.”
This verse highlights God’s faithfulness in answering prayer. At funerals, Psalm 34:4 reassures mourners that God hears their cries and delivers them from fear. For families grieving, it is encouragement that God is attentive to their pain and will provide comfort. This passage teaches us that prayer is a powerful source of strength in sorrow. Funerals become moments to seek the Lord, trusting that He delivers us from despair and fills us with peace. The grieving can rest in the assurance that God hears and responds to their prayers.
43. Isaiah 41:13
“For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.”
This verse gives a beautiful image of God’s personal care. At funerals, Isaiah 41:13 comforts mourners with the assurance that God holds their hand in sorrow. For families grieving, it is reassurance that they are not abandoned but tenderly guided by the Lord Himself. This passage teaches us that God’s help is intimate and near, calming fear and strengthening hearts. Funerals become opportunities to feel God’s closeness, knowing He walks with the grieving every step of the way. His promise to help removes fear and replaces it with His comfort.
44. Psalm 103:15-17
“As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth…”
This passage reflects on the brevity of human life and the everlasting mercy of God. At funerals, Psalm 103 reminds mourners that while life is fleeting, God’s mercy endures forever. For grieving families, it brings perspective—though their loved one’s days on earth have ended, God’s steadfast love remains. This scripture teaches us to value life while trusting in God’s eternal mercy. Funerals become reminders that human frailty is overshadowed by God’s unending compassion, offering comfort and hope to those who mourn.
45. Isaiah 51:12
“I, even I, am he that comforteth you: who art thou, that thou shouldest be afraid of a man that shall die…”
This verse directly identifies God as the source of comfort. At funerals, Isaiah 51:12 reassures mourners that their ultimate consolation comes from Him. For families in sorrow, it is peace to know that God Himself draws near to comfort them, calming fear and grief. This passage teaches us that earthly life is temporary, but God’s presence is eternal. Funerals are moments to lean into this truth—that comfort is not found in people but in the Lord who never fails. His promise of consolation strengthens hearts weighed down by loss.
Conclusion
The Old Testament is rich with words of comfort for times of grief. From the Psalms that describe God as our refuge to Isaiah’s promises of peace, these 45 scriptures remind us that God’s presence sustains us even in our darkest hours. Funerals are not only a time of mourning but also a time of reflection on God’s faithfulness, His promises of hope, and His eternal mercy.
For the grieving, these passages offer reassurance that God is near, binding up broken hearts and carrying us through sorrow. They remind us that life, though brief, has meaning under God’s guidance, and that death is not the end but the doorway to eternal peace.
As you meditate on these scriptures, may you find strength in God’s Word, comfort in His promises, and peace in His presence. Let the Old Testament remind you that grief does not have the final word—God does. He is our refuge, our strength, and our everlasting comfort.
