Bible verses for soldiers who have killed

This year, Memorial Day is on Monday, May 30. Even though most people think of Memorial Day as a day off work and the beginning of summer fun, it’s intended as a day to commemorate the lives lost during war. Others view it as a day to think about all those who are deceased. 

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Whether you are using Memorial Day to remember the life of a fallen soldier or are thinking about a civilian friend or family member you’ve lost, here are some verses from the Bible that may be appropriate to share.

Some of the verses are about war and peace, while others may be used to simply honor the dead. Share this entire article or a few verses from it this year on Memorial Day.

Memorial Day Bible Verses About War and Peace

Memorial Day is a National Day of Remembrance. It is a day where communities host parades honoring members of the military and a time when politicians give moving speeches about sacrifice and honor. 

Here are some verses from the Bible that may assist you when writing a speech or reflecting during your devotional time. 

1. Ecclesiastes 3

The verses in Ecclesiastes 3 are some of the most quoted scriptures in the Bible. They are used at funerals and in Memorial Day readings.

The chapter begins, “there is a time for everything,” including “a time for war and a time for peace.” You may be familiar with the song “Turn! Turn! Turn!” by the Byrds, which borrows heavily from Ecclesiastes 3.

2. Ephesians 6:11

This verse states: “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” 

Do you have a fallen soldier in your family that you would like to honor? This verse would not only be perfect for a Memorial Day prayer, but it could also be used on the headstone of your loved one. 

3. Joel 3:9

Although there are many messages of peace in the Bible, there are also verses that describe the necessity of war. This is one of them. It states: “Proclaim this among the nations: Prepare for war! Rouse the warriors! Let all the fighting men draw near and attack.”

4. Micah 7:8

Perhaps your loved one is currently protecting our country. If this is the case, he or she may need a verse to inspire hope. Consider using this one from the Old Testament that says in part, “Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the LORD will be my light.” 

5. Revelation 21:7

John wrote the Book of Revelation. It’s about a vision that was given to him about the end of time.

Although some of the passages describe dark times, the overall message is one of hope. This verse, in particular, shows the hope that comes from believing in God. “Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children.”

6. 1 Timothy 6:12

This verse reminds us to “fight the good fight of the faith.” This is important to remember for soldiers and non-soldiers alike.

Memorial Day Bible Verses About Honoring the Dead

Whether or not you are honoring the life of a fallen soldier or a civilian loved one, here are some Bible verses that you may consider sharing or reading on Memorial Day. These are verses that would be appropriate for funeral scriptures, as well. 

Even though Christians may honor the actions and sacrifices of those who are dead, they know that it is most important to honor God. 

7. Daniel 12:1-3

The promise of eternal life was given in the Old Testament as well as the new. This verse says, in part, “Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake.” 

Those hearing this verse will take comfort in being reminded of the promise of eternal life.

8. Matthew 11:28-30

If your deceased loved one suffered from excruciating mental or physical illness, their death might have been a blessing. This verse in Matthew promises rest for the weary and burdened.

9. Psalm 46

If you have lost a loved one, you understand the pain that comes with grief. Many times the verses you hear at a funeral are meant to offer comfort for those in attendance. This chapter in the Book of Psalms promises that “God is our refuge and strength.”

10. Ephesians 2:8-9

If your loved one was a Christian, they believed in the power of grace. This verse reminds us that regardless of how “good” our loved ones were, they were only saved by the grace that is the gift of God.

11. Proverbs 31:31

If you are celebrating the life of a deceased woman, consider using this verse in the Book of Proverbs. In part, it says, “honor her for all that her hands have done.” Did your mother, sister, aunt, or wife have the heart of a servant? If so, this would be a great verse to share at her funeral.

12. John 14:1-3

This often-quoted verse reminds us that God’s house has many rooms, but the beginning part of the chapter provides the most solace for one who is grieving. It states: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.”

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Memorial Day Bible Verses to Share on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram

Are you looking for a Bible Verse to share on your social media account on Memorial Day? Remind your friends and followers the meaning of this special day in May by sharing one of the following verses.

13. Joshua 1:9

Although God is the most powerful, he also calls on us to be strong and courageous. In this verse, God commands Joshua, the new leader of Israel, to show strength to the enemies that they will face.

14. 1 Corinthians 16:13

This verse is perfect to share when reflecting upon the life of a soldier, as their job is to “be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” This verse may be underlined in every Christian soldier’s Bible.

15. Psalm 33

It’s little wonder that verses from the Book of Psalm are often quoted. In this chapter, the Lord is described as our “help and our shield.” Who protects the soldier? It seems as if this verse answers that question. 

16. John 15:13

Jesus’ words are recorded in the Book of John when he states: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” This verse follows the command, “Love each other as I have loved you.”

17. Proverbs 10:7

We know that this verse is a little dark to share on Memorial Day, but it describes what will happen to the wicked while the “memory of the righteous is blessed.” 

18. Psalm 23

Even non-Christians are usually familiar with the words from the 23rd chapter of the Book of Psalms. It begins: “The Lord is my shepherd. I shall not want.” This is one of the most often quoted verses of scripture for a person who is staring death in the face.

19. Isaiah 66:12

What is the most a country could wish? The answer is found in Isaiah 66. While sometimes war is necessary, every soldier wishes for “peace to her like a river, And the glory of the nations like an overflowing stream.”

20. Psalm 34:18

Many people feel grief on Memorial Day as they think about those who they have lost. This verse reminds us that the Lord “saves those who are crushed in spirit.” 

21. Psalm 116:15

This verse states, “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.” It is comforting knowing that God recognizes the sacrifices of every one of his “saints,” and that he views each death as precious.

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What Are Your Favorite Verses?

This is not meant to be an exhaustive list of verses that are appropriate for a Memorial Day reading. After all, the Bible is full of wisdom regarding a wide variety of subjects, including bravery, sacrifice, honor, and especially love.  

What verse reminds you of the sacrifice of the American soldier? What verse makes you think of your departed loved one? Share your favorites with us.

If you're interested in reading more about the history of Memorial Day, check our guide on Decoration Day.