Introducing the Bible to children is one of the most beautiful gifts we can offer. Nursery Bible verses help little ones begin their faith journey with love, hope, and security. These short, simple, and powerful scriptures are ideal for memory, bedtime prayers, or everyday encouragement.
Each verse below includes a short explanation designed for young minds, making it easy for parents, teachers, and caregivers to share God's Word in a meaningful way.
1. God Made Everything: Genesis 1:1
"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth."
This verse is a wonderful introduction for little ones to the story of creation. It teaches that God is the Creator of all things , the sky, land, animals, and even us. It's a comforting reminder that the world is not random, but lovingly made by a powerful God. For children, this can plant seeds of awe and gratitude for nature and life. It’s perfect for sparking curiosity and conversations about the beauty around us.
2. God Loves Children: Mark 10:14
"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these."
Jesus’ words in this verse show how special children are in His eyes. He invites them into His presence and reminds everyone of their value. This verse can help children feel loved, seen, and welcome in the family of God. It also reassures parents and caregivers that their children matter deeply to God.
3. God Is Always With You: Joshua 1:9
"Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
This verse is a source of strength and comfort. Teaching children that God is with them in every situation , at school, during bedtime, or when they feel afraid , builds their confidence and trust in Him. It can become a verse they carry in their hearts throughout life.
4. Be Kind and Loving: Ephesians 4:32
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
Kindness is a foundational lesson in early childhood, and this verse offers a biblical reason for it. It encourages little ones to be gentle, forgiving, and loving to others. The idea that we treat others with love because God has loved us helps instill humility and grace at an early age.
5. God Knows You Completely: Psalm 139:14
"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."
This beautiful verse speaks of identity and self-worth. It tells children that they are made by God in a special, wonderful way. Teaching this verse early helps nurture confidence, self-esteem, and the understanding that they are unique and precious in God’s eyes , just as they are.
6. Trust God Every Day: Proverbs 3:5
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding."
Even at a young age, children can learn the value of trust , especially trust in God. This verse encourages them to rely on God even when they don’t understand everything around them. It also helps guide their emotions and actions with the peace that comes from leaning on a loving, wise Father.
7. God Gives Us Peace: Philippians 4:6
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
This verse is a gentle guide for little hearts learning to pray. It teaches them to bring their worries, big or small, to God. Through prayer and gratitude, they begin to experience peace. It's a beautiful reminder that their feelings matter and that God listens to them.
8. Jesus Is Our Shepherd: John 10:11
"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep."
This verse shows Jesus as a loving and protective shepherd. Just like a shepherd cares deeply for each sheep, Jesus looks after each of us, especially children. It’s a comforting image that helps kids understand they are safe and cherished in His care.
9. Say Thank You to God: 1 Thessalonians 5:18
"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."
Gratitude is a value that can be taught early, and this verse encourages it beautifully. Teaching kids to say "thank you" to God in all situations, whether good or bad, helps build a heart of appreciation and joy. It reminds them that God is always working for their good.
10. God Cares for You: 1 Peter 5:7
"Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you."
Children face worries too , new places, unfamiliar faces, or bad dreams. This verse reassures them that they can give those fears to God. He cares for them deeply and wants to help carry their burdens. It teaches the beautiful habit of talking to God when something feels too big.
11. Follow God’s Path: Psalm 119:105
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path."
This verse teaches children that God’s Word helps guide them through life, just like a nightlight helps them see in the dark. It’s a gentle way to explain how reading the Bible helps us know what is right and how to make good choices. It’s comforting for little ones to know they’re never alone, God’s Word is always there to lead them.
12. God Hears Our Prayers: Jeremiah 29:12
"Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you."
Children need to know that they can talk to God at any time, and that He’s always listening. This verse encourages them to pray and builds confidence that their voices matter to God. Whether they’re thankful, happy, or scared, God welcomes every prayer from their hearts.
13. God Is Our Helper: Psalm 46:1
"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."
This verse offers security to young children. When they feel scared or unsure, they can remember that God is their safe place and their strength. Teaching this verse helps them know they can rely on God’s protection and love in every moment of life, no matter how small or big their troubles seem.
14. The Lord Is Good: Psalm 100:5
"For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations."
This joyful verse is a beautiful reminder of God’s never-ending goodness and love. It helps children understand that God’s love isn’t just for now, but for always. It’s also a great way to connect family and faith, as it mentions how God's care reaches every generation.
15. Obey Your Parents: Ephesians 6:1
"Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right."
This simple verse teaches a value that kids often hear at home, obedience. But it shows that listening to parents is also something that pleases God. It’s a helpful verse for both guiding behavior and showing children that their actions can be a way of honoring God.
16. God’s Love Never Fails: Lamentations 3:22-23
"Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."
This verse is a gentle way to teach about God’s faithfulness. It reminds children that every new day is a fresh start and that God’s love never runs out. It's especially meaningful during bedtime or when starting a new day with gratitude and joy.
17. The Fruit of the Spirit: Galatians 5:22-23
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control."
This verse is packed with qualities children can begin to practice early in life. Each “fruit” helps them grow into kind and thoughtful individuals. You can use this verse to teach different traits throughout the week, helping them understand how to reflect God’s Spirit in daily life.
18. God Protects You: Psalm 121:7-8
"The Lord will keep you from all harm, he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore."
This verse provides a deep sense of safety and reassurance. It’s perfect for children who may fear the unknown or be nervous in new situations. Knowing that God watches over their every step, coming or going, can bring great comfort and peace.
19. Rejoice Always: Philippians 4:4
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!"
Joy is something children understand naturally, and this verse encourages them to find joy in the Lord. It teaches that being glad in God is something worth celebrating every day. It’s perfect for music time, play, or just instilling a heart of thankfulness and fun in faith.
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.