July is full of quirky, heartfelt, and unexpected national days that give us reasons to celebrate everything from chocolate and friendship to hammocks and moonwalks. As believers, we can draw inspiration and encouragement from Scripture that ties into these fun observances.
Whether you're enjoying a slice of blueberry pie or showing kindness to a stranger, these Bible verses help anchor these moments in God’s Word. Let this list serve as a reminder that God is present in both the everyday and the extraordinary.
1. Celebrate Friendship with God's Love: Proverbs 17:17
"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity."
July 30 is International Day of Friendship, and this verse reminds us that true friendship reflects God's enduring love. A real friend is present in both good and bad times, offering strength, laughter, and grace. This verse also reminds us of the value of faithful companionship during our hardest seasons, something to cherish and nurture.
2. Trust God's Timing on Simplicity Day: Ecclesiastes 3:1
"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens."
July 12 is National Simplicity Day, a day to pause and embrace life’s essentials. This verse from Ecclesiastes affirms that everything in life has its divine season. Simplicity helps us slow down and recognize God's timing. It's a day to breathe, reflect, and realign with what truly matters.
"How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!"
July 7 is World Chocolate Day, and what better way to reflect on it than with a verse about sweetness? God’s Word is richer and sweeter than even the finest chocolate. As you enjoy a treat, remember that Scripture satisfies the soul in a way no dessert ever could.
4. Speak Life on Compliment Your Mirror Day: Proverbs 31:25
"She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come."
July 3 marks Compliment Your Mirror Day, encouraging self-affirmation. This verse reminds us that inner strength and God-given dignity are worth far more than appearances. As we look in the mirror, may we see ourselves as God sees us, capable, courageous, and full of purpose.
5. God’s Care on Cow Appreciation Day: Matthew 6:26
"Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?"
Cow Appreciation Day (July 9) might be lighthearted, but it’s a great time to reflect on God’s care for all creation. This verse reassures us that if God tends to birds, and yes, cows, He certainly watches over us. His provision is constant and personal.
6. Rest in Him on National Hammock Day: Matthew 11:28
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."
On July 22, swing into National Hammock Day with this peaceful promise. Jesus invites us to lay down our burdens and rest in Him. Whether you're in a hammock or simply needing spiritual renewal, this verse is a soothing reminder that rest is sacred.
7. Be a Light on Moon Day: Matthew 5:14
"You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden."
National Moon Day on July 20 commemorates the moon landing. Just as the moon reflects the sun’s light, we reflect God’s light to a dark world. This verse challenges us to shine brightly, guiding others to Christ with love, hope, and truth.
8. Express Joy on National Ice Cream Day: Philippians 4:4
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!"
National Ice Cream Day (July 21) is pure delight, and joy is something we’re called to express continually. This verse from Philippians encourages us to rejoice not only during fun moments like enjoying ice cream but even in times of hardship, because our joy is rooted in Christ.
9. Find Strength on National Cheer Up the Lonely Day: Isaiah 41:10
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
July 11 is National Cheer Up the Lonely Day, a perfect time to extend comfort. This verse reminds us that we’re never truly alone, God is our constant strength. When we reach out to the lonely, we echo His promise to uplift and support.
10. Honor the Earth on National Clean Beaches Week: Genesis 2:15
"The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it."
Held during the first week of July, Clean Beaches Week is a reminder of our role as stewards of creation. Genesis 2:15 speaks to our God-given responsibility to care for the Earth. It’s a call to respect, protect, and maintain the beauty around us.
11. Embrace Liberty on Independence Day: Galatians 5:1
"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery."
July 4, Independence Day, is a celebration of freedom, and this verse speaks to the ultimate freedom found in Christ. More than political liberty, it reminds us of our spiritual release from sin. We are called to live in that freedom boldly and faithfully.
12. Show Kindness on National Give Something Away Day: Luke 6:38
"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap."
July 15 is National Give Something Away Day, and this verse encourages generosity. God honors our giving hearts. When we give without expecting in return, we reflect His nature, and blessings often follow in unexpected ways.
"A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones."
July 16 is National Tell a Joke Day, a perfect excuse to laugh and share joy. Proverbs teaches us that a joyful spirit promotes healing and life. Laughter isn’t just fun, it’s a God-given way to connect and encourage others.
14. Remember Sacrifice on Korean War Veterans Armistice Day: John 15:13
"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."
July 27 honors Korean War veterans, and this powerful verse highlights the ultimate act of love, sacrifice. As we remember those who gave their lives for freedom, we also reflect on Jesus' ultimate sacrifice for our salvation.
15. Practice Grace on National Be Someone Day: Ephesians 4:32
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
On July 21, National Be Someone Day challenges us to make a difference in a child’s life. This verse calls us to kindness and compassion. When we embody grace, we offer the kind of love that changes lives.
16. Honor Parents on National Parents Day: Exodus 20:12
"Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you."
Celebrated on the fourth Sunday of July, Parents Day is rooted in respect. God commands us to honor our parents, recognizing the vital role they play. This verse reminds us that such honor brings blessing and longevity.
17. Be Diligent on National Workaholics Day: Colossians 3:23
"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters."
July 5 is National Workaholics Day, a chance to reflect on work and rest. This verse encourages wholehearted work, but for God's glory, not human praise. It’s also a gentle nudge to balance work with rest and purpose.
18. Savor God's Goodness on National Blueberry Muffin Day: Psalm 34:8
"Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him."
July 11 is National Blueberry Muffin Day, and it pairs beautifully with this verse. Just as we savor delicious food, we’re invited to “taste” God's goodness. Experiencing His faithfulness firsthand brings true fulfillment and joy.
19. Reflect God’s Image on National Self-Care Day: Genesis 1:27
"So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them."
July 24 is National Self-Care Day. This verse reminds us that we are made in God’s image. Taking care of ourselves, body, mind, and spirit, is a way of honoring Him. You are worth the time and care because you bear His likeness.
20. Encourage Peace on National Day of Peace: Romans 12:18
"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."
While July doesn’t have an official U.S. Peace Day, global peace efforts are recognized year-round. This verse encourages us to be peacemakers. In a world full of conflict, we are called to bring reconciliation and peace wherever we can.
Anne Kostick has been Editor-in-Chief since September 2007. Previously, Anne was a principal at Foxpath IND, a publishing, consulting and editorial services company specializing in the transition to and from traditional content publishing and online content management, development and publishing. Her clients included trade book publishers, technology and financial services Web sites, and arts and cultural institutions. Previously, she worked as Licensing and Product Development Director, Senior Acquisitions Editor and Director of Electronic Publishing for Workman Publishing, and as Senior Acquisitions Editor for Harry N. Abrams/Stewart, Tabori & Chang. In the online world she worked as Director of Content Development for Vitaminshoppe.com. Anne has a B.A. in Greek and Latin, with a minor in Theater, from Beloit College. She is the author of several books for children, as well as a definitive collection of jokes.