Exploring Emotions Through Scripture: Bible Verses for Kids

Understanding Emotions Through Scripture

In this section, we’re going to explore how the Bible can help us understand and deal with our feelings. From moments of joy to times of sadness, fear, and everything in between, we’ll explore how biblical teachings offer insights and guidance to navigate the wide range of emotions with faith and understanding. So, let’s dive into how the Bible can help us make sense of our emotions and learn to handle them better.

Identifying Common Emotions

Together, let’s look at 12 common emotions: joy, fear, sadness, anger, love, happy, lonely, confused, mad, calm, tired, excited, and worried.

Joy

Joy is a deep feeling of happiness and contentment that comes from within. It’s more than just temporary pleasure; it’s a sense of inner peace and fulfillment that transcends circumstances. Joy is a fundamental emotion that children experience in various situations. The Bible is replete with verses that emphasize the importance of joy. Additionally, characters like David exemplify joy through praise and gratitude, despite facing challenges.

Bible Verses with Joy:

• Psalm 126:3 “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.”
• Galatians 5:22 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
• Romans 15:13 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in faith so that you overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit”.

Example of Bible Stories with Joy:

• Genesis 21: Abraham, Sarah, and Isaac.
• Matthew 2: The Birth of Jesus and the Wisemen’s Excitement
• Psalm 51: David’s prayer to the Lord

Fear

Fear is that fluttery feeling in your stomach when something seems scary or unknown. It’s like when you’re afraid of the dark or worried about what might happen next. Fear can make your heart race and your palms sweaty, but it’s also a normal emotion that helps keep us safe by alerting us to potential dangers. In the Bible, fear often comes up when people face challenges or uncertainties, but it also teaches us to trust in God’s protection and guidance. Stories of courage, such as David facing Goliath, inspire children to trust in God’s protection.

Bible Verses about Fear:

• 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.”
• 1 John 4:18 “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.”
• Psalm 23:4 “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

Examples of Bible Stories with Fear:

• 1 Samuel 17: David and Goliath
• Matthew 14:22-33: Jesus Walks on Water
• Mark 4:35-41: Jesus Calms the Storm

Sadness

Sadness is a natural emotion that children may experience during times of loss or disappointment. However, the Bible provides comfort and hope in moments of sadness.  The story of Joseph’s reconciliation with his brothers demonstrates God’s ability to turn sorrow into joy.

Scripture References about Sadness:

• Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
• John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
• Psalm 31:9 “Be merciful to me, Lord, for I am in distress; my eyes grow weak with sorrow.”

Examples of Bible Stories with Sadness:

• John 11: The Death of Lazarus (Jesus wept.)
• 2 Samuel 12:15-23: David’s son dies
• Jeremiah 9:1: Jeremiah is often referred to as the weeping prophet.

Anger

Anger is another emotion that children must learn to manage constructively. In many cases, it can be used interchangeably with mad. Ephesians 4:26 advises, “In your anger do not sin.” Jesus’ example of righteous anger in cleansing the temple teaches children the importance of standing up for what is right without letting anger control their actions.

Bible Verses about Anger:

• James 1:20 “Anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”
• Psalm 37:8 “Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil.”
• Ephesians 4:26 “In your anger do not sin.”

Examples of Anger in Bible Stories:

• Matthew 21:12-17: Jesus Flips Tables in the Temple
• 1 Samuel 19: Saul tries to kill David
• Genesis 4: Cain and Abel

Love

Love is a foundational principle emphasized throughout the Bible. Verses like 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 describe love as patient, kind, and forgiving. The story of the Good Samaritan illustrates the importance of showing love and compassion to others, regardless of differences.

Bible Verses with Love:

• John 13:34-35 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
• 1 Corinthians 13:13 “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
• Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Examples of Bible Stories on Love :

• Luke 10:25-37: The Parable of the Good Samaritan
• Luke 15:11-32: The Parable of the Lost Son
• 1 Corinthians 13: Definition of Love

Happy

Happiness is that awesome feeling when everything just seems right in the world. In the Bible, there are verses that remind us to appreciate the good times. Like in Psalm 118:24, which says, “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” So, when you’re feeling happy, remember to thank God for all the good stuff happening around you.

Scriptures on Happiness:

• Psalm 118:24 “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
• Proverbs 15:13 “A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit.”
• Psalm 37:4 Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Examples of Happy Bible Stories:

• Exodus 15:20-21: Miriam rejoices for crossing the Red Sea on dry ground
• Luke 15:11-32: The Prodigal Son
• Genesis 46:29-34: Joseph reunites with his father

Lonely

Loneliness is a poignant emotion that children may encounter when they feel isolated or disconnected from others. It’s like a shadow that follows them, reminding them of their longing for companionship and belonging. In the Bible, there are verses that remind us we’re never truly alone. Like in Psalm 27:10, that mentions even if our moms and dads leave us, God would still be there. So, when a child is feeling lonely, remind them that God is our forever friend, ready to keep you company and bring you comfort, just like a warm hug from a loved one.

Bible Verses on Loneliness:

• Joshua 1:9 “The Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
• Isaiah 41:10 “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
• John 14:18 “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.”

Stories of Loneliness in the Bible:

• Jeremiah 15: Jeremiah’s Lamentations
• Matthew 26:36-46: Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane
• Genesis 37:12-36: Joseph Sold by His Brothers

Confused

Confusion is like trying to solve a puzzle without all the pieces – it can leave you feeling lost and unsure. But even in those moments, the Bible offers guidance and reassurance. In 1 Corinthians 14:33, it says, “For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.” So, when you’re feeling confused, remember to turn to God for clarity and peace, just like finding your way with a trusted guide.

Bible Verses on Disorder:

• 1 Corinthians 14:33 “For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.”
• James 3:16 “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.”
• 1 Corinthians 14:40: “But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.”

Examples of Bible Stories with Confusion:

• Jonah 2: Jonah in the Whale
• Genesis 11:1-9: The Tower of Babel
• Acts 2:1-13: The Holy Spirit Comes at Pentecost

Calm

Calm, peace, or tranquility is a serene state of mind that children may experience when they feel a sense of inner quiet and contentment. It’s like a gentle breeze that soothes the soul and brings a sense of relaxation amidst life’s storms. In the Bible, there are scriptures that offer comfort and assurance of God’s presence in bringing calmness to our hearts. For instance, in Philippians 4:6-7, it says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This verse reminds us that God’s peace surpasses all human understanding and brings a deep sense of tranquility to our lives. Just as joy brings happiness and contentment, experiencing God’s peace allows children to find rest and solace in His presence, no matter the circumstances they face. God has it!

Bible Verses on Peace:

• Matthew 5:9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
• John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid”.
• Psalm 29:11 “The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.”

Examples of Bible Stories on Calm in Chaos:

• Mark 4:35-41: Jesus in the Storm
• Acts 16:16-40: Paul and Silas in Prison
• Daniel 6:10-23: Daniel in the Lions’ Den

Tired

Tiredness or exhaustion is a common feeling that children may experience after a long day of activities or when they’re feeling physically or emotionally drained. It’s like a heavy blanket weighing them down, making it difficult to find energy or motivation. In the Bible, there are verses that offer comfort and strength to those who are tired or weary. For instance, in Isaiah 40:31, it says, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” This verse reminds us that God provides the strength we need to overcome exhaustion and persevere through challenging times. Just as joy brings happiness and contentment, finding renewal in God’s strength helps children navigate through moments of tiredness and exhaustion with resilience and perseverance.

Bible Verses on Exhaustion:

• Isaiah 40:31 “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.”
• Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
• Colossians 1:10-11 “So that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience.”

Examples of Bible Stories with Exhaustion:

• Judges 16: Samson and Delilah
• Jonah 4:5-11: Jonah Resting Under the Vine
• 1 Kings 19:1-8: Elijah Flees to Horeb

Excited

Excitement is a thrilling feeling that children often experience when they’re looking forward to something special or anticipating an upcoming event. It’s like a bubbling energy inside them, making them feel eager and enthusiastic. In the Bible, there are verses that celebrate moments of excitement and anticipation. For example, in Psalm 37:4, it says, “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” This verse reminds us that God delights in our excitement and desires to bring us joy. Just as joy brings happiness and contentment, excitement adds a spark of anticipation to our lives, reminding children that there’s always something wonderful to look forward to.

Bible Verses with Zeal:

• Psalm 150:6 “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.”
• Romans 12:11 “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
• Psalm 122:1 “I rejoiced with those who said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.'”

Examples of Bible Stories with Excitement:

• Matthew 21:1-11: Palm Sunday – The Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem
• Acts 2:1-4: The Day of Pentecost
• Exodus 14:21-22: The Israelites Cross the Red Sea through a Wall of Water

Worried

Worry is a common feeling that children may experience when they feel anxious or uncertain about something. It’s like a cloud that hangs over their thoughts, making them feel uneasy or restless. In the Bible, there are verses that offer comfort and reassurance to those who are worried or with anxiety. For instance, in Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus encourages His followers not to worry about their needs, assuring them that God cares for them deeply. Just as joy is a foundational emotion, so is finding peace amidst worry, and the Bible provides guidance and comfort to children facing anxious moments.

Bible Verses on Anxiety:

• 1 Peter 5:7 “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
• Matthew 6:34 “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
• Matthew 6:25  “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?”

Examples of Bible Stories with Worry:

• Acts 16:16-40: Paul and Silas in Prison
• Daniel 6: Daniel in the Lion’s Den
• Matthew 6:25-34: List of Reasons not Worry

Exploring Biblical Emotions Set for Kids

Welcome to an Exciting Adventure in Feelings & Faith for Your Little Ones! Dive into our Biblical Emotions Set, the ultimate fun-packed toolkit that brings emotional awareness and biblical wisdom right to your kids’ fingertips!  This 28-page bundle isn’t just a product; it’s a journey to joy and understanding, perfectly packaged for your child’s calm corner, classroom circle time, Christian homeschooling, Sunday School lessons, or as a sparkling new addition to their Feelings Montessori activities.

Introducing the Biblical Emotions Set

Creativity meets Scripture.  Many emotion charts guide your children in recognizing and articulating their feelings. However, what makes this Biblical Emotion Set truly unique is its ability to do more than just identify emotions. It bridges the gap between feelings and understanding by pairing each emotion with a corresponding scripture. This not only helps your child grasp what they’re feeling but also offers them a biblical perspective to comprehend and navigate those emotions.

Let’s take a look inside The Bible Verse Emotions Set for Kids, a world where feelings meet faith.

Biblical Emotions Wheel-Printable

Check out our awesome Biblical Emotions Wheel! It’s like a cool, colorful tool that helps you understand and deal with your feelings using inspiring Bible verses. Whenever your kids are feeling a certain way, just spin the pointer and find a verse that matches your emotions.

In addition,  enjoy a black-and-white version of the Feelings Wheel, inviting little artists to color their world while soaking in God’s words. This adorable emotions wheel will allow little ones to explore a rainbow of emotions paired with heartwarming scriptures, ready to brighten their day in full color with the Word of God!

My Feelings Scripture Cards

These vibrant Feelings Bible Verse Cards make emotions and scriptures come alive! These emotions flashcards for kids feature feelings like Mad, Sad, Tired, Lonely, Happy, Excited, and more, paired with uplifting Bible verses. The printable set even includes black-and-white versions so kids can color and make their Emotions Bible Verse Cards uniquely theirs. It’s an educational card set that helps children grasp their feelings better! Understanding emotions is the first step in learning how to manage them, and these cards do just that, all from a biblical and Christian perspective.

“Today I Feel…” Feelings Poster Chart

Brighten up your Sunday School classroom with our delightful Feeling Chart! This engaging chart features nine lovable characters expressing nine different feelings, each accompanied by uplifting Bible verses. Available in both vibrant color and ready-to-color black and white versions, this versatile resource encourages kids to express themselves in a fun and meaningful way. Display it proudly in your classroom to foster emotional awareness and spiritual growth among your students!

Emotions Coloring Pages

Immerse yourself in the world of emotions with our adorable feelings characters and accompanying Bible verses on nine special feelings coloring pages! Sometimes, children need visual aids to help them understand and express their feelings better. With nine fun Mood characters to color, this activity provides a playful and engaging way for kids to explore and identify their emotions.

Editable Emotion Coloring Sheet

In addition to the emotions coloring pages, get an editable coloring page designed to help children explore and identify their emotions alongside meaningful Bible verses. With this editable PDF, kids can personalize their “I feel” moments by adding their chosen emotion and corresponding scripture verse before unleashing their creativity with colors. Compatible with the free version of Adobe, this resource empowers children to engage with their feelings in a fun and educational way while reinforcing biblical teachings. Whether they’re feeling joyful, anxious, silly, or anything in between, this customizable coloring page provides a valuable tool for emotional expression and spiritual growth.

Emotions Handwriting Pages

Encourage your little handwriting heroes to practice penmanship with a purpose on nine engaging Bible verse tracing pages where emotions and scriptures intertwine. These preschool handwriting Bible verse pages not only aid in memorizing scripture but also enhance writing skills while helping little ones explore and learn about their big feelings and emotions.

Self-Regulation Cards & Calming Strategies

The Kids’ Calm-Down Cards are an essential component of the Biblical feelings set designed to support children in managing their emotions and promoting self-regulation. With 18 ingenious calming strategy cards included, kids can access simple, fun ways to navigate through challenging feelings. From practicing deep breaths to engaging in energizing activities like jumping jacks, or seeking comfort with a cozy hug from a teddy, these calming strategies empower children to effectively cope with their emotions in a positive and constructive manner.

Grab the entire Emotions Bible Verse Bundle

Utilizing the Set to Teach Emotional Awareness

Now that we’ve explored the rich tapestry of emotions through scripture, let’s dive into how you can utilize this Biblical Emotions Set to foster emotional awareness in your children or students.

• Tips for parents and educators: Consider discussing each emotion and accompanying Bible verse with your child or students, encouraging open dialogue about how they relate to these feelings in their own lives. Use the coloring pages, flashcards, and other resources as visual aids to reinforce the concepts.
• Suggestions for incorporation: Incorporate the set into family devotional time or classroom discussions on emotions and character development. Encourage children to reflect on their own feelings and experiences in light of the Biblical teachings provided.

Understanding and managing emotions through a biblical lens is a valuable skill that can benefit children in all aspects of their lives. By anchoring their emotional awareness in timeless truths and teachings from the Bible, children can develop resilience, empathy, and a deeper understanding of themselves and others.

As you continue on this journey of nurturing emotional intelligence in children, we encourage you to explore further resources and continue seeking out opportunities to engage with scripture in meaningful ways. Together, let’s empower the next generation to navigate life’s ups and downs with faith, wisdom, and grace.