18 Powerful and Encouraging Bible Verses For Teachers

As teachers, the back to school season is upon us and many of us are gearing up to head back to school. Yes, even me! I will officially be heading back to 2nd grade and I couldn’t be more excited! This was a decision that I know deep down in my soul that God has called me to do. More on that in a future post! 🙂

I have always been a firm believer in my faith and I truly believe in the power of prayer. I’ve experienced it in my own life in so many ways. A few months ago, I started Teachers Who Pray and I have big dreams for that platform because I am a teacher with a big testimony and I can’t wait to share that story with you. I believe it is essential to find encouragement and strength through my faith, so in this blog post, I feel called to share 18 encouraging bible verses for teachers so you can find strength through faith and prayer as we head back to school this year!

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18 Encouraging Bible Verses for Teachers

In the bible, there is an abundance of verses and stories that provide hope, inspiration, encouragement, and guidance. These verses and stories mimic events and challenges happening in our lives, both personally and educationally, and in the world today.

In Romans 12:4-8, we learn that God has given each person spiritual gifts. Verse 7 references teaching as a spiritual gift. As we begin to prepare for the upcoming school year, I wanted to share a few of my favorite bible verses to uplift and motivate teachers as we prepare to impact the lives of our students and those around us. 

The scriptures that I’m going to reference are from the New Living Translation of the bible. It’s the current version that I use when studying God’s word.  I find it easy to understand and relate to.

To hear more about the power of faith, prayer, and leaning into the Word as a teacher, check out this YouTube video where I’m sharing a few of these bible verses for teachers. 

#1: Isaiah 40:31

The first of the encouraging bible verses for teachers is Isaiah 40:31: “But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.”

This verse reminds us that as teachers, we need to fully rely on God to provide us with the strength and endurance needed to face any challenges that come our way throughout the school year. This could be student behavior issues, working with a team member who doesn’t see eye to eye with you, or even a new administrator that wants to change many things. When we trust the Lord with all our hearts, He will guide us through everything.

#2: Jeremiah 29:11

This encouraging bible verse for teachers is found in Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” 

Lean into the comfort that comes with knowing that God has a purpose for you. His plan is so good, filled with a future that aligns with His divine intention. Trust in this plan and let Him guide the way.

#3: Psalms 32:8

In Psalms 32:8, the Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.”

There is so much comfort and wisdom knowing that God is a constant advisor and protector over our classrooms. No matter what challenge or hardship you may be facing, just know that He is there to watch over and guide you. 

#4: Philippians 4:13

This is one of the most powerful bible verses for teachers in my opinion. Philippians 4:13 says, “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”

Teaching is hard, but you can do hard things! Let’s be real, we need all the strength we can get to teach our kids addition and subtraction with regrouping and get through those first exhausting days of school. Lean into God’s word and He will guide you through those challenging seasons.

#5: Joshua 1:9

Up next is one of my favorite verses in the bible, Joshua 1:9, which says: “This is my command – be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” 

Guess what?! YOU have been called by God to teach! What a wonderful and powerful thing that is! God’s words are a constant source of comfort and encouragement in all that we do. Knowing that He is with us every step of the way and in every moment that we’re inside our classroom is so freeing of any fears or worries that we might have.

#6: Romans 15:13

I truly believe this is one of the most important bible verses for teachers to lean into. In Romans 15:13, the bible says, “I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” 

This trust in God’s guidance and provision enables us to approach our work as teachers with confidence, knowing that we are not alone in this journey. By relying on God, we can find the strength and inspiration to make a positive impact on students’ lives and enjoy what we do as teachers.

#7: Psalms 46:1

In Psalms 46:1, the Lord says, “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.”

I have had many days throughout my teaching career where I wanted to just throw in the towel and give up. There were many times where I would be walking from my car into the building each morning and I would say “God, you’re going to have to hold my hand today because I cannot do this without you.” And guess what? He showed up! Every. Single. Time. No matter what challenge you’re facing, ask God to give you the strength to get through it with grace. 

#8: Proverbs 3:5-6

In Proverbs 3:5-6, the bible tells us to “Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.”

I’m a firm believer in closing your door and doing what is best for your students. We’ve all been there. You know exactly what your students need and God knows exactly what you need. Trust that He has equipped you with the skills and wisdom to serve your students to the absolute best of your ability and do what is best for them.

#9: Romans 15:13

Next up on the list of bible verses for teachers is Romans 15:13: “I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” 

We know that we will face various challenges and uncertainties throughout the school year. We can find comfort in knowing that God is the ultimate source of hope, regardless of the situation. The Holy Spirit empowers us and guides us in our role as educators, allowing others to see Christ through us and our actions.

#10: Matthew 5:14-16

Matthew 5:14-16 says: “You are the light of the world – like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.”

Jesus is the light of the world. In these verses, we are described as the same. In one of my favorite bible studies, Shine!, Teachers in the Word, it talks about how we are called to shine His light into a dark world. I pray that you will be a light of Jesus and shine into your students.

#11: Psalms 118:24

I remember growing up in church and singing a song with this verse. Psalms 118:24: “This is the day the LORD has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.”

This verse is a powerful reminder for teachers as they should approach each new day with a positive attitude, rejoicing in the opportunities it brings. Embracing this bible verse for teachers allows us to begin each day with a sense of purpose and joy, knowing that the Lord has filled it with opportunities for hope.

#12: Isaiah 41:10

Isaiah 41:10 is the next of the bible verses for teachers that I think we all need as we head into a new school year. “Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up in my victorious right hand.“

God is a constant presence in your classroom. We might not always be able to acknowledge Him publicly, but we can acknowledge Him with our actions and our words and by giving grace when grace is due. He is a constant source of comfort and hope that can enable us to face the school year with confidence.

#13: 2nd Timothy 1:7

In 2nd Timothy 1:7, the Bible tells us that “For God has not given us spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”

God has equipped you with these unique qualities to help you impact the lives of students with confidence and grace. You have been entrusted with a significant role in shaping young minds.  When teachers begin to feel overwhelmed by the demands of their profession, they can take comfort in knowing that God has entrusted you with your role for a reason. We can trust that His wisdom and guidance will help us navigate each day with purpose and direction.

#14: Galatians 6:9

If there were ever a bible verse that relates perfectly to teaching, it’s this one. Galatians 6:9: “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time, we will reap a harvest of blessings if we don’t give up.”

I share this verse with you because right now, the community of educators is tired. You feel the weight on your shoulders from the demands that this job brings. This verse is a reminder of perseverance. I want to remind you that by not giving up, you can experience the fulfillment of seeing student growth and success.

#15: Psalms 46:10

In Psalms 46:10, the bible says, “Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.”

Amidst the busyness of back to school preparations, be sure to take moments of stillness and recognize what God’s sovereignty brings. Recognizing that God is in control can bring you comfort and reassurance. You can feel encouraged because you are not alone; God is there to guide and support you in every step of your journey.

#16: Proverbs 22:6

This bible verse is amazing for parents, but also for educators leading the next generation. Proverbs 22:6: “Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.”

This verse highlights the critical role teachers play in guiding and shaping children’s lives. As we guide children onto the right path, instilling valuable principles and knowledge, we can help lay a foundation that can shape their lives for years to come. Teachers, your job is so meaningful. Don’t ever forget that.

#17: Proverbs 9:9

Proverbs 9:9 says, “Instruct the wise, and they will be even wiser. Teach the righteous, and they will learn even more.”

This verse highlights the fact that teaching is like a two-way street, where both the teacher and students learn and grow together. Teachers not only share knowledge, but also grow along with their students. This verse tells us that teachers can benefit from teaching, too, and this can bring a sense of joy and fulfillment into their lives. It also reminds us that as teachers, we can create a positive and collaborative learning environment, where both students and the teacher can thrive, making learning so much more fun.

#18: Romans 8:28

The last of the bible verses for teachers that I’m sharing today is Romans 8:28: “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.”

You are called specifically by God to do His work through your service as a teacher. While everyday may not be perfect and there are sure to be challenges and obstacles to overcome in the classroom, don’t forget that God has a plan for you and your students and everything is working together just the way He has planned it.

Bible Verses for Teachers Prayer Cards

It is my sincerest hope that these encouraging bible verses for teachers speak to you and that you can keep them close by and reflect on them often.

To help you lean into God’s word as a teacher, I’ve created a free download of prayer cards with these encouraging bible verses for teachers printed on them. You can get them sent straight to your inbox and print them out as you prepare for the new school year in the coming weeks. Just fill out the form below and they’ll be in your inbox shortly!

I’d love for you to share this blog post with your teacher friends so we can spread God’s word and encouragement with more educators. 

For more inspiration and faith-filled conversations, follow Teachers Who Pray on Instagram and Facebook. I’d love to have you be a part of this faithful teacher community!

Comment below and let me know which bible verse spoke to you most today!