What does the Bible say about sorrow?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that sorrow is real in a fallen world, yet God draws near to his grieving people, uses godly sorrow for their good, and promises everlasting joy in Christ. Psalms 34:18 assures the brokenhearted that the Lord is near, while Matthew 5:4 promises comfort to those who mourn. Jesus told his disciples in John 16:33 that tribulation comes, but he has overcome the world. Believers may cast every anxiety on God because he cares for them, as 1 Peter 5:7 says. Present sufferings are not worthy to compare with coming glory, and Revelation 21:4 looks to the day when God wipes away every tear.

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Revelation 21:4

    He will wipe away from them every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; neither will there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain, any more. The first things have passed away."

  • John 16:33

    I have told you these things, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have oppression; but cheer up! I have overcome the world."

  • Psalms 30:5

    For his anger is but for a moment; His favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may stay for the night, But joy comes in the morning.

  • Romans 8:18

    For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which will be revealed toward us.

  • Matthew 5:4

    Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted.

  • 2 Corinthians 7:10

    For godly sorrow works repentance to salvation, which brings no regret. But the sorrow of the world works death.

  • 1 Peter 5:7

    casting all your worries on him, because he cares for you.

  • Psalms 34:18

    Yahweh is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves those who have a crushed spirit.

  • Isaiah 35:10

    and the ransomed of Yahweh shall return, and come with singing to Zion; and everlasting joy shall be on their heads: they shall obtain gladness and joy, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:13

    But we don't want you to be ignorant, brothers, concerning those who have fallen asleep, so that you don't grieve like the rest, who have no hope.

Study outline

Curated topical outlines from classic public-domain study works.

Nave's Topical Bible

Related topics

Go deeper

Ask Explain Bible AI about sorrow and get a fuller answer from a Reformed theological perspective.

Ask what the Bible says about sorrow