Bible Verses for Lent
Lent is a quiet turning of the heart back to God through repentance, prayer, and renewal. These verses companion the season's honest, humble return.
The Bible speaks to Lent. Verses such as Joel 2:13, 2 Corinthians 5:17, and Matthew 6:6 remind us that God is near, that we can bring our hearts to him, and that we are not alone in it.
“And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil.”
Joel 2:13“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”
2 Corinthians 5:17“But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.”
Matthew 6:6“Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.”
James 4:8“Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.”
Psalms 51:1“But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.”
Matthew 4:4“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
1 John 1:9“For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”
Hebrews 4:15“I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.”
Luke 15:7“Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.”
Luke 15:10“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.”
Psalms 51:17“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
John 3:16
These verses are offered for comfort and are not a substitute for professional care.
A new verse every morning, chosen for your heart, in the app.
Common questions
What does the Bible say about Lent?
The Bible speaks to Lent. Verses such as Joel 2:13, 2 Corinthians 5:17, and Matthew 6:6 remind us that God is near, that we can bring our hearts to him, and that we are not alone in it.
What is the best Bible verse for Lent?
Joel 2:13 is one of the most turned-to verses for Lent, and many also return to 2 Corinthians 5:17 and Matthew 6:6. The best verse is the one that meets you where you are today; read a few slowly and keep the one that steadies you.
What are short Bible verses for Lent?
Short, easy-to-hold verses for Lent include Psalms 51:17, Luke 15:10, and 1 John 1:9. A single line, read slowly and carried through the day, can quiet a hard moment.
Which Psalm helps with Lent?
Psalms 51:1 is a comforting psalm for Lent. The Psalms give honest words for what the heart feels, from sorrow to trust, which is why so many return to them.
How can I use these Bible verses for Lent?
Read one verse slowly, take a breath, and turn it into a short prayer in your own words. Keep it somewhere you will see it, and let it be a companion through the day rather than a task to finish.