The words on a Christian gift should be something the person will still want to read years from now. The safest choices are a short Bible verse or a Scripture-based phrase that is timeless, encouraging, and easy to read at a glance. Trendy slogans fade. God's Word does not.
Whether you are choosing a ready-made design or deciding what to write in the card, here is how to pick words that last.
Full Verse, Short Phrase, or Reference?
Short phrase plus reference
The most popular approach. A few words from the verse with the reference underneath, like "Be Still and Know, Psalm 46:10." It reads quickly and invites the person to look up the full passage. Example: the Psalm 46:10 mug.
Full verse
Beautiful when there is room, and great for verses that need their full context. Write the full verse in the card if the design only shows part of it.
Faith phrase inspired by Scripture
Short, memorable messages like "Faith Over Fear" or "Pray First" carry a biblical idea in just a few words. Examples: the Faith Over Fear mug and Pray First mug.
Symbol designs
Some people prefer a subtle design that sparks curiosity, like the God Is Greater Than the Highs and Lows tee.
20 Verse and Phrase Ideas by Occasion
Encouragement
- Be Still and Know (Psalm 46:10)
- Nothing Can Separate Us (Romans 8:38-39)
- Take Every Thought Captive (2 Corinthians 10:5)
- His Mercies Are New Every Morning (Lamentations 3:22-23)
Courage and new beginnings
- Be Strong and Courageous (Joshua 1:9)
- Hope and a Future (Jeremiah 29:11)
- Walk by Faith (2 Corinthians 5:7)
- Do Not Fear (Isaiah 41:10)
For women
- Clothed in Strength and Dignity (Proverbs 31:25)
- She Will Not Fall (Psalm 46:5)
- Fearfully and Wonderfully Made (Psalm 139:14)
- Her Children Rise Up (Proverbs 31:28)
For men
- Man of God (Micah 6:8)
- Iron Sharpens Iron (Proverbs 27:17)
- Stand Firm (1 Corinthians 16:13)
- Fight the Good Fight (1 Timothy 6:12)
Love and marriage
- Love Never Fails (1 Corinthians 13:8)
- Faith, Hope, and Love (1 Corinthians 13:13)
- Not Lucky, Just Loved (1 John 4:19)
Work and service
- Do It All in the Name of the Lord (Colossians 3:17)
Every one of these is available on a ready-made product in our shop. Browse our full gift collection.
Tips for Words That Last
- Choose timeless over trendy. Scripture never goes out of style.
- Keep it readable. Short phrases are easier to take in at a glance.
- Check the context. Make sure the verse means what you think it means.
- Avoid inside jokes that might not age well.
- Put the personal details in the card. Names, dates, and memories belong in your handwriting.
For more on choosing, read our Bible verse selection guide and Scripture gifts that feel personal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I put on a Christian gift?
A short, timeless Bible verse or Scripture-based phrase, with the reference so they can look it up.
Should I include the full Bible verse?
A short phrase with the reference reads well on most items. Write the full verse in your card if you want them to see all of it.
What are popular faith phrases?
Faith Over Fear, Pray First, Be Still and Know, and Walk by Faith are among the most loved.
Shop Scripture gifts with words that last.