What Are Some Recommended Scripture Readings for a Funeral Program?
Christi AndersonThe Funeral Program Site understands how difficult it can be to choose the right words when honoring a loved one, and scripture readings often bring comfort, peace, and reassurance during a funeral service.
Selecting Scripture For A Funeral Program
When selecting scripture for a funeral program, many families choose passages that reflect God’s promises, eternal life, and the hope of reunion. One of the most commonly included readings is Psalm 23, which reminds us that the Lord is our shepherd and that even in the valley of sorrow, we are never alone.
| Theme | Recommended Scripture | Why Families Choose It | Best Placement in a Funeral Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort and peace | Psalm 23 | A timeless passage that reassures families with imagery of guidance, safety, and rest. | Inside cover, opening reflection, or scripture page |
| Hope and heaven | John 14:1–3 | Offers hope and comfort by focusing on faith, reunion, and a prepared place. | Order of service reading or closing encouragement |
| God’s presence in grief | Psalm 34:18 | A simple, powerful reminder that God is close to the brokenhearted. | Short verse spotlight, footer quote, or memorial page |
| Strength and support | Isaiah 41:10 | Often chosen for encouragement and courage during loss and uncertainty. | Prayer section, family message page, or back cover |
| Eternal life | Romans 8:38–39 | Reassures families that nothing can separate us from God’s love. | Closing reflection, benediction, or final scripture reading |
| Rest and renewal | Revelation 21:4 | Chosen for its promise of an end to sorrow and a future without pain. | Final page, closing tribute, or “Words of Comfort” section |
| Resurrection hope | 1 Thessalonians 4:13–14 | Comforts mourners with hope and the promise of reunion through faith. | Main scripture reading during the service |
| Peace beyond understanding | Philippians 4:6–7 | Popular for anxiety and grief, emphasizing prayer and peace. | Prayer section, meditation moment, or inside spread |
| Love that remains | 1 Corinthians 13:4–8 | Often selected when the service emphasizes love, family, and legacy. | Tribute page, family message, or memorial poem section |
| The Lord’s blessing | Numbers 6:24–26 | A short, widely recognized blessing that feels fitting and ceremonial. | Benediction, closing words, or back cover |
Another meaningful passage is John 14:1–3, where Jesus comforts His followers by saying, “Do not let your hearts be troubled,” and speaks of preparing a place in heaven. This scripture is often chosen for services that emphasize faith, peace, and everlasting life.
Families looking for messages of love and reassurance often include Romans 8:38–39, which reminds us that nothing—not even death—can separate us from the love of God. Ecclesiastes 3:1–4 is also a popular choice, reflecting on the seasons of life and acknowledging that there is a time to mourn and a time to heal.
Another comforting passage is Revelation 21:4, which speaks of a future without pain, sorrow, or tears, offering hope and renewal during a time of loss.
Making The Process Easier
To make this process easier, The Funeral Program Site also offers prewritten funeral scriptures presented in beautiful word art designs. These scripture word art pieces are ready to use and can be easily inserted into any funeral program template—whether printed or digital—saving families time while still creating a meaningful and polished presentation.
Choosing the right scripture adds a powerful layer of comfort to a funeral program, and with thoughtfully designed templates and ready-made scripture word art, The Funeral Program Site helps families create tributes that are both heartfelt and easy to assemble during a difficult time.
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