Saying goodbye is often hard, but it’s a part of life. The Bible contains verses that help us understand and cope with farewells. This exploration will offer comfort and hope through these scriptures.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Putting Others Before Yourself
Bible Verses About Saying Goodbye
Genesis 31:28
“And why did you not permit me to kiss my sons and my daughters goodbye? Now you have done foolishly in so doing.”
In this verse, Jacob is expressing his frustration and disappointment to his father-in-law Laban for not allowing him to bid farewell to his family before leaving. It highlights the importance of saying goodbye, especially to our loved ones, as it brings closure to a chapter in our lives and allows for a healthy transition.
2 Kings 2:2
“Then Elijah said to Elisha, ‘Stay here, please, for the LORD has sent me on to Bethel.’ But Elisha said, ‘As the LORD lives, and as your soul lives, I will not leave you!’ So they went down to Bethel.”
In this passage, Elisha refuses to say goodbye to his mentor and spiritual father, Elijah, as he is determined to stay with him until the very end. It illustrates the deep bond and loyalty between them, as well as the commitment to continue the work that has been entrusted to them by God.
Nehemiah 2:6
“Then the king said to me (the queen also sitting beside him), ‘How long will your journey be? And when will you return?’ So it pleased the king to send me; and I set him a time.”
Nehemiah, the cupbearer to the king, is about to embark on a journey to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. In this verse, the king asks him about the duration of his journey and when he will return. It emphasizes the importance of communicating our plans and timelines when saying goodbye, as it helps to manage expectations and ensure a smooth transition.
Ruth 1:14
“Then they lifted up their voices and wept again; and Orpah kissed her mother-in-law, but Ruth clung to her.”
In this touching scene, Ruth and Orpah are torn between leaving their mother-in-law, Naomi, and returning to their own families. Orpah ultimately decides to say goodbye and return home, while Ruth chooses to remain with Naomi. This verse reminds us that goodbyes can be emotional and difficult, but sometimes they are necessary for us to embrace our calling and follow God’s leading.
1 Samuel 20:41
“As soon as the lad had gone, David arose from a place toward the south, fell on his face to the ground, and bowed down three times. And they kissed one another; and they wept together, but David more so.”
Jonathan and David share a deep friendship, but circumstances force them to say goodbye. In this verse, they part ways with tears and affection, acknowledging the pain of their separation. It reminds us that saying goodbye to close friends or loved ones can be challenging, but it is an opportunity to express our emotions and cherish the memories we shared.
Matthew 26:75
“And Peter remembered the word of Jesus who had said to him, ‘Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.’ So he went out and wept bitterly.”
After denying Jesus three times, Peter experiences deep remorse and sorrow. This verse portrays the moment when he realizes the weight of his actions and that he failed to say goodbye to Jesus when he needed to stand by Him the most. It serves as a reminder that saying goodbye is not only about physically parting ways but also about affirming our commitment and loyalty in difficult times.
Acts 20:37
“Then they all wept freely, and fell on Paul’s neck and kissed him.”
As Paul is about to leave the believers in Ephesus, they express their love and affection for him through tears and embraces. This verse exemplifies the emotional aspect of saying goodbye, as the bond between friends and fellow believers is deeply rooted in genuine love and care for one another.
Mark 14:62
“Jesus said, ‘I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.'”
During His trial, Jesus provides a powerful farewell statement that points to His divinity and His imminent return. In this verse, He affirms His identity as the Son of Man, indicating that even in moments of goodbye and uncertainty, His ultimate victory and reign are assured. It reminds us that even in the midst of goodbyes, we can find comfort and hope in the promises of Jesus.
John 14:3
“And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.”
Jesus assures His disciples that His departure is not permanent but necessary to prepare a place for them in heaven. This verse speaks of the eternal reunion that awaits believers, emphasizing the hope and assurance we have in Christ. Saying goodbye to loved ones who have passed away can be difficult, but this promise brings comfort and encouragement.
Acts 18:21
“But took leave of them, saying, ‘I must by all means keep this coming feast in Jerusalem; but I will return again to you, God willing.’ And he sailed from Ephesus.”
Paul takes leave of the believers in Ephesus, expressing his intention to return to them if God permits. This verse highlights the importance of acknowledging God’s will and seeking His guidance when saying goodbye. It demonstrates humility and trust in God’s plans, even when they might involve temporary separation.
2 Corinthians 13:11
“Finally, brethren, farewell. Become complete. Be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.”
In this verse, Paul bids farewell to the Corinthians, encouraging them to pursue unity, peace, and spiritual maturity. The words he uses in saying goodbye point to the importance of departing with blessings and affirmations of God’s presence and love. It reminds us that goodbyes can be opportunities to encourage and uplift one another before parting ways.
Romans 16:16
“Greet one another with a holy kiss. The churches of Christ greet you.”
Paul concludes his letter to the Romans by urging them to greet one another with a holy kiss. This verse emphasizes the importance of expressing love and affection when saying goodbye. It encourages believers to create a sense of community and warmth in their farewells, strengthening the bond between brothers and sisters in Christ.
Philippians 4:9
“The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.”
As Paul concludes his letter to the Philippians, he urges them to imitate his example and continue living out the teachings they have received. This verse speaks to the significance of leaving a lasting impact even when saying goodbye – by imparting wisdom, encouragement, and godly principles, we can ensure that our influence continues in the lives of those we depart from.
2 Timothy 4:6
“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand.”
Paul reflects on his imminent departure from this world, describing it as being poured out as a drink offering. In this verse, he embraces his mortality and acknowledges that his time on earth is coming to an end. It reminds us that saying goodbye can take various forms, and the context of our farewell may differ based on our life circumstances.
Ephesians 6:23
“Peace to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
In his benediction to the Ephesians, Paul offers a farewell filled with blessings. This verse highlights the importance of departing with expressions of love, faith, and peace. It signifies our desire for the well-being and spiritual growth of those we say goodbye to, as we trust in God’s provision and guidance in their lives.
2 Thessalonians 3:16
“Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with you all.”
Paul imparts a farewell prayer for the Thessalonians, asking for God’s peace to be with them in all circumstances. This verse emphasizes the role of prayer in our goodbyes, as we seek God’s presence and protection for those we are leaving. It reminds us that saying goodbye is not simply a physical act but a recognition of our dependence on God and His continued work in our lives.
Hebrews 13:20-21
“Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.”
The author of Hebrews offers a comprehensive blessing in this farewell prayer. It emphasizes the role of God as the source of peace and His ability to equip believers to do His will. This verse reminds us that saying goodbye is an opportunity to seek God’s guidance and blessings, both for ourselves and for those we are leaving behind.
3 John 1:14
“But I hope to see you shortly, and we shall speak face to face. Peace to you. Our friends greet you. Greet the friends by name.”
John expresses his desire to see his friends face to face, indicating that goodbyes do not always mean permanent separation. This verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining personal connections and relationships, even if physical distance separates us. It encourages us to cherish the moments we have together and to express our love and care for one another in our farewells.
1 Peter 5:14
“Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to you all who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.”
Peter concludes his letter with a farewell message of love and peace. He encourages believers to greet one another with a kiss of love, symbolizing warmth and affection. This verse underscores the significance of expressing love and unity, even in our goodbyes, as we navigate the challenges and joys of our journey in Christ together.
Revelation 22:20
“He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming quickly.’ Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!”
The book of Revelation concludes with a fervent prayer for the imminent return of Jesus. This verse reflects the ultimate goodbye, as believers long for the day when they will be reunited with their Lord and Savior. It serves as a reminder that every goodbye is temporary, and our ultimate hope lies in the eternal reunion with Christ.
Matthew 28:20
“Teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
As Jesus commissions His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, He assures them of His constant presence with them. This verse reinforces the truth that, even in the midst of goodbyes, we are never alone – Jesus is always with us, guiding and empowering us to fulfill His mission. It reminds us that saying goodbye does not mean separation from Christ but rather an invitation to continue His work in the world.
What Does the Bible Say About Saying Goodbye?
In the Bible, we can find references to saying goodbye in various contexts. When we look at the topic of saying goodbye, we see that the Bible encourages us to approach farewells with love, grace, and faith.
One of the most well-known verses about saying goodbye is found in Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, where he exhorts them to “Greet one another with a holy kiss” (2 Corinthians 13:12). This reflects the idea of parting with warmth and affection, showing love and appreciation for one another even as we bid farewell.
Additionally, when Jesus said farewell to his disciples before his ascension, he left them with words of comfort and encouragement. He assured them that they would not be left alone and promised to send the Holy Spirit to be with them (John 14:16-18). This demonstrates that even in goodbyes, God’s presence and love continue to support and guide us.
Furthermore, the Bible also reminds us that farewells are a natural part of life. In Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, we learn that there is a time for everything, including a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing. This passage emphasizes that goodbyes are a part of life’s seasons, and while they may be difficult, they are a necessary aspect of our earthly journey.
In saying goodbye, the Bible also urges us to trust in God’s plans. In Romans 8:28, we are reminded that God works for the good of those who love him. So, even in the midst of goodbyes and the emotions they bring, we can have confidence that God is at work, orchestrating His perfect will in our lives.
Ultimately, the Bible teaches us that goodbyes, though often filled with emotions, can be opportunities to express love, offer comfort, and demonstrate faith in God’s guidance. As we navigate the complexities of farewells, we can take heart in the biblical encouragement to part in love, embrace God’s comforting presence, and trust in His sovereign plan for our lives.