Anzac Day, observed on the 25th of April in Australia and New Zealand, is a solemn occasion dedicated to remembering the sacrifices of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. It is a day of gratitude, mourning, pride, and reflection, uniting communities in honor of those who gave their lives in service. Beyond ceremonies, silence, and the laying of wreaths, Scripture readings hold a unique place in remembrance services, offering words of comfort, strength, and hope that transcend time and circumstance.
As we remember the ANZACs, let these verses guide prayers, readings, and meditations. They anchor remembrance in God’s promises and remind us that even in loss, hope endures, and peace is possible.
Why Bible Verses Deepen Anzac Day Remembrance
Bible verses add sacred weight to Anzac Day services by grounding human acts of sacrifice in the divine story of love and redemption. While the occasion itself is national, Scripture reminds us that God honors courage, comforts grief, and calls His people to be peacemakers. When read aloud at dawn services or memorial gatherings, these words transform collective silence into a holy moment of reverence.
The verses also assure families of the fallen. While remembrance honors what has been lost, Scripture speaks of God’s eternal care—that no act of sacrifice is forgotten by Him. This spiritual dimension helps communities process grief with hope, acknowledging both the cost of war and the promise of peace that God holds before us.
Finally, Bible readings on Anzac Day remind all present that remembrance is not only about the past but also about shaping the future. They inspire listeners to live lives marked by courage, compassion, and justice—qualities embodied by the ANZAC spirit and deeply rooted in God’s Word.
How to Use Bible Verses in Anzac Day Services
Including Bible verses in Anzac Day remembrance services can take many forms. Ministers, chaplains, or community leaders may incorporate readings during the dawn service, weave them into prayers of thanksgiving and lament, or use them as meditative reflections during the two minutes of silence.
Families and individuals can also use these Scriptures privately—praying them at home, reading them during personal reflection, or sharing them at Anzac Day gatherings. The key is to choose passages that resonate with the themes of courage, sacrifice, resilience, and peace, connecting the ANZAC story with God’s eternal truth.
When integrated thoughtfully, Scripture not only honors the fallen but also turns hearts toward Christ, the Prince of Peace. By doing so, remembrance becomes more than tradition—it becomes worship.
50 Best Bible Verses for Anzac Day Remembrance Services, 18th August 2025
John 15:13
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
This verse is the heartbeat of Anzac Day. It reminds us that the sacrifice of the ANZACs reflects the ultimate act of love shown by Christ. Their willingness to give all for the sake of others mirrors the selflessness of the gospel.
Isaiah 40:31
“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 encourages communities that grieve and carry the heavy weight of remembrance. God’s strength is promised to those who wait upon Him, even in times of mourning.
Psalm 23:4
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
For soldiers, families, and nations, this verse is a reminder that God’s presence is unfailing, even in moments of great loss and darkness.
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Anzac Day not only remembers the cost of war but also inspires the pursuit of peace. This verse lifts the call of Christ to work for peace in a troubled world.
2 Timothy 4:7
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
This passage captures the spirit of the ANZACs—enduring to the end with courage and steadfastness, inspiring future generations to live with faith and integrity.
Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
This verse speaks directly to the courage of soldiers who stepped into uncertainty. On Anzac Day, it reminds us that bravery is not the absence of fear, but the presence of God in the midst of it.
Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
In remembrance services, this passage reassures mourners that God remains a shelter when the storms of war and grief overwhelm. He is a stronghold that cannot be shaken.
Romans 8:38-39
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life… nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
The pain of loss is real, yet this Scripture assures us that those who have fallen are never beyond God’s eternal love. It comforts grieving families with the promise of reunion in Christ.
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 8
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens… a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.”
Anzac Day invites reflection on the times of war and peace. This passage grounds the remembrance in the larger rhythm of life under God’s sovereignty.
Philippians 4:6-7
“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… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
In the stillness of dawn services, these words invite people to bring their sorrow, gratitude, and hope to God, receiving His peace that transcends human understanding.
Psalm 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
For families who lost loved ones, this verse assures them that God draws near to comfort and heal their wounded hearts.
Isaiah 9:6
“For to us a child is born… And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
On a day that recalls the ravages of war, this verse directs attention to Jesus Christ, the ultimate source of peace and the One who will end all wars.
1 Corinthians 16:13
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.”
The ANZACs embodied this spirit of strength and vigilance. This verse encourages all who remember them to stand firm in faith and resilience.
Psalm 121:1-2
“I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”
For soldiers and those they left behind, this verse is a reminder of where true help and strength originate—not in human might, but in the Creator.
Micah 6:8
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Anzac Day is not only about remembering sacrifice but also about embracing values that shape a just and merciful society. This verse calls communities to live out those virtues.
Psalm 27:1
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?”
A powerful reminder of God’s sustaining presence, this verse assures us that even in war’s darkness, His light shines brightly.
Hebrews 13:7
“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.”
Though written about spiritual leaders, this verse resonates with Anzac Day as we honour those who led with courage and left examples of loyalty, bravery, and faith.
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.”
This Scripture reassures all who feel overwhelmed by grief or fear, echoing God’s promise of support in every generation.
Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
For those still carrying the legacy of war in memory, body, or spirit, these words of Jesus invite them into His rest and healing.
Psalm 90:12
“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
This verse calls people to reflect on the brevity of life and the value of living wisely—a perspective sharpened by Anzac Day’s solemnity.
John 14:27
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Amid the grief of war, Jesus’ peace surpasses the fleeting assurances of this world, bringing calm to troubled hearts.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
“Praise be to the God… the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles…”
This verse highlights God’s role as Comforter, a truth especially poignant on a day when entire nations mourn together.
Psalm 29:11
“The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.”
Strength and peace—two gifts from God that sustain both the warriors who fought and the communities who remember them.
Revelation 21:4
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain…”
This vision of the new creation lifts hearts beyond remembrance toward eternal hope, where war and sorrow are no more.
Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
This echoes the reassurance that God’s presence sustains both in the trenches of war and in the grief of remembrance.
Psalm 37:28
“For the Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. Wrongdoers will be completely destroyed; the offspring of the wicked will perish.”
This verse affirms God’s justice and faithfulness, reminding us that evil does not prevail in His eternal plan.
Romans 12:21
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
Anzac Day challenges us not only to remember but to live as people who overcome hatred and division through acts of goodness and love.
Psalm 116:15
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants.”
This verse comforts families by affirming that every life laid down is deeply valued by God.
Isaiah 25:8
“He will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces…”
An ultimate reminder of the hope that goes beyond graves, pointing to the resurrection promise in Christ.
Colossians 3:15
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”
This verse encourages individuals and communities to embody gratitude and peace, virtues at the heart of Anzac Day remembrance.
Psalm 62:5-6
“Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.”
When war leaves legacies of unrest, this Scripture declares that true rest and security are found in God alone.
Matthew 22:37-39
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind… Love your neighbour as yourself.”
Anzac Day reflects the power of selfless love. This commandment roots that love in God, inspiring communities to care for one another deeply.
Proverbs 10:7
“The name of the righteous is used in blessings, but the name of the wicked will rot.”
On Anzac Day, this verse reminds us that the memory of those who served lives on as a blessing to future generations.
Hebrews 12:1
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses… let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”
This verse ties remembrance to perseverance, urging us to live with the same endurance as those who came before.
Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
The ANZACs embodied courage in the face of fear. This verse reminds us that bravery is not born of ourselves but of God’s presence, which goes with us in every battlefield of life.
Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
In times of war, loss, or remembrance, this verse declares that God Himself is our safe refuge. He is not distant but ever-present, sustaining hearts in grief and granting resilience in hardship.
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 8
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens… a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.”
Anzac Day reflects this truth—there was a time of war, but God also ordains a time of peace. Remembering the cost of war fuels the hope and pursuit of lasting peace.
Romans 12:15
“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”
Communities gather on Anzac Day to mourn collectively, sharing in grief and honour. This verse affirms that mourning together is a holy act of solidarity that reflects the heart of Christ.
Psalm 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
For families who lost loved ones, this verse assures them that their grief is not unnoticed. God Himself draws near, offering comfort that no human words can fully provide.
1 Corinthians 16:13
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.”
The ANZAC spirit of vigilance and courage echoes this biblical exhortation. Faith calls us to stand firm, not just in battle, but in the daily struggles for justice, peace, and truth.
Psalm 27:1
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?”
This verse comforts those who faced overwhelming fear in war. It remains a powerful declaration for us today: God’s presence dispels fear and secures hope.
Isaiah 2:4
“They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore.”
Anzac Day stirs longing for a world without war. This verse is God’s promise of ultimate peace, where weapons will give way to tools of life and creation.
Psalm 91:11
“For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”
This verse reassures us that God’s protection extends even to the battlefield. For soldiers who served and those who serve today, God’s unseen presence is their shield.
Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
The burden of grief, memory, and trauma can weigh heavily on Anzac Day. Christ offers rest to all who bring their sorrows and exhaustion to Him.
Hebrews 12:1
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders… and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”
The memory of the ANZACs serves as a “cloud of witnesses,” inspiring future generations to live with perseverance and dedication to the greater good.
Isaiah 25:8
“He will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces.”
This verse comforts grieving families with the assurance that death will not have the final word. God Himself promises a day of restoration and peace.
Micah 6:8
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
The ANZAC spirit of service can inspire us to live justly and humbly in honour of God. Remembrance calls us to continue building a society marked by justice and mercy.
Philippians 4:7
“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 human comprehension. It is a gift that holds hearts steady amid the storms of grief and the scars of war.
Revelation 21:4
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
This is the eternal hope behind remembrance: that one day war, loss, and grief will be gone forever, replaced with everlasting peace.
Psalm 121:1-2
“I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”
This verse encourages those who feel the weight of remembrance. True help and hope flow from God, who sustains all creation and strengthens weary souls.
Romans 8:38-39
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life… nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Even in the face of death, this verse promises that God’s love remains unbreakable. For grieving families, it is a balm of eternal assurance.
Psalm 29:11
“The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.”
Anzac Day is a time of remembering strength and praying for peace. This verse assures that both are gifts from God, poured out generously on His people.
Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified… for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
For every soldier who faced uncertainty, this verse affirms God’s unwavering presence. It continues to encourage those carrying the weight of remembrance.
Proverbs 10:7
“The name of the righteous is used in blessings, but the name of the wicked will rot.”
On Anzac Day, we bless the memory of those who sacrificed righteously. Their legacy endures as a blessing upon the generations who follow.
Summary
Anzac Day is a sacred time of reflection, honour, and gratitude. The Scriptures we have explored bring depth and spiritual grounding to the remembrance of the ANZACs, connecting their courage and sacrifice with the eternal promises of God. Each verse speaks not only to the cost of war but also to the resilience of the human spirit and the hope that transcends suffering. By turning to the Word of God, communities can frame the memory of fallen heroes within the greater narrative of Christ’s love, sacrifice, and peace.
These verses provide comfort for the grieving, assurance for the hopeful, and inspiration for all who carry the ANZAC legacy forward. They remind us that God sees every act of bravery, honours every life given in service, and walks alongside those who mourn. In moments of national remembrance, Scripture transforms silence into sacred reflection, offering words of strength when human language falls short.
Ultimately, Anzac Day is not only about the past but about shaping a future rooted in peace and faith. The Bible verses chosen for remembrance services encourage us to embody courage, compassion, and reconciliation in our daily lives. As dawn breaks and ceremonies unfold, these Scriptures serve as a timeless reminder that while human sacrifice may protect freedom, it is God’s enduring love that grants eternal hope.
