31+ Bible Verses About Ocean (with Explanation)

The ocean, with its vastness and depth, serves as a profound backdrop throughout the pages of the Bible. From the Genesis narrative, where God establishes the seas and calls them “good,” to the poetic imagery in Psalms describing the tumultuous waves as symbols of life’s challenges, the ocean is a recurring theme rich with metaphorical and spiritual significance.

In this exploration, we delve into various Bible verses that shed light on the divine perspective of the ocean. These passages unveil layers of meaning, depicting the sea as a symbol of God’s power, a metaphor for life’s trials, and a canvas upon which the Creator inscribes His boundless wisdom.

Join us in uncovering the biblical narratives that draw upon the oceans, offering insights into creation, redemption, and the unfathomable depths of God’s love.

Also Read: Bible Verses About Home (with Explanations)

Bible Verses About Ocean

Genesis 1:10

And God called the dry land Earth, and the gathering together of the waters he called Seas. And God saw that it was good.

In Genesis 1:10, we witness the divine act of creation, where God establishes the boundaries between land and sea. The ocean, referred to as the “Seas,” is an integral part of God’s intentional design. The phrase “And God saw that it was good” emphasizes the divine approval of the seas, highlighting their significance in the balance of the Earth.

The oceans, with their vastness and depth, reflect God’s boundless power and creativity. They are a reminder of the intricate beauty inherent in God’s creation. This verse encourages believers to appreciate and steward the oceans, recognizing them as a fundamental aspect of God’s masterpiece.

Psalm 95:5-6

The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land. Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!

Psalm 95:5-6 draws attention to the Lord’s sovereignty over the seas and the entire Earth. The psalmist invites believers to worship and bow down before the Creator, acknowledging His role as the Maker of both the land and the sea.

This verse instills a sense of awe and reverence for God’s majesty. It calls for a humble recognition of God’s authority over the oceans, encouraging believers to approach the Creator with a heart of worship. The act of bowing down symbolizes submission to the One who masterfully crafted the seas.

Job 38:8-11

“Or who shut in the sea with doors when it burst out from the womb, when I made clouds its garment and thick darkness its swaddling band, and prescribed limits for it and set bars and doors, and said, ‘Thus far shall you come, and no farther, and here shall your proud waves be stayed’?”

In Job 38:8-11, God’s dialogue with Job vividly describes His control over the seas. The imagery of God enclosing the sea with doors and setting limits for its proud waves emphasizes His authority in establishing boundaries and maintaining order.

This passage underscores the divine wisdom behind the regulation of the oceans. It portrays God as the ultimate authority, orchestrating the natural world with precision. Believers can find comfort in knowing that the chaotic aspects of life are subject to God’s purposeful design and control.

Matthew 8:26-27

And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?” Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. And the men marveled, saying, “What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?”

Matthew 8:26-27 recounts the moment when Jesus calms the storm, demonstrating His authority over the elements. The disciples’ amazement at the sea’s obedience reflects the profound impact of witnessing Jesus’ power.

This passage showcases Jesus as the one who brings peace and order to the chaos of life. It encourages believers to trust in Him during tumultuous times, acknowledging that even the winds and the sea obey His command. In the face of life’s storms, faith in Jesus brings about a profound calm.

Revelation 21:1

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more.

Revelation 21:1 presents a vision of the future, where a new heaven and a new earth emerge, and the absence of the sea is noted. This symbolic imagery signifies a restoration and renewal of the world as part of God’s ultimate plan.

The absence of the sea in the new heaven and earth signifies a transformative renewal, emphasizing the profound changes God will bring about. This verse encourages believers to anticipate a future where God’s redemptive work results in a world free from the sorrows and challenges associated with the sea.

Psalm 107:23-30

Some went down to the sea in ships, doing business on the great waters; they saw the deeds of the Lord, his wondrous works in the deep. For he commanded and raised the stormy wind, which lifted up the waves of the sea. They mounted up to heaven; they went down to the depths; their courage melted away in their evil plight; they reeled and staggered like drunken men and were at their wits’ end. Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed. Then they were glad that the waters were quiet, and he brought them to their desired haven.

In Psalm 107:23-30, the psalmist vividly describes the perils faced by those who go to the sea in ships. The tumultuous journey becomes an opportunity to witness the Lord’s wondrous works and experience His deliverance in times of distress.

This passage speaks to the transformative power of God in the midst of life’s storms. It encourages believers to turn to the Lord in times of trouble, knowing that He has the ability to calm the turbulent seas and bring them to a place of safety and peace.

Ezekiel 47:8-10

And he said to me, “This water flows toward the eastern region and goes down into the Arabah, and enters the sea; when the water flows into the sea, the water will become fresh. And wherever the river goes, every living creature that swarms will live, and there will be very many fish. For this water goes there, that the waters of the sea may become fresh; so everything will live where the river goes.”

Ezekiel 47:8-10 presents a vision of healing waters flowing into the sea, transforming it and bringing life to the surrounding areas. This imagery symbolizes God’s power to bring renewal and vitality to even the saltiest of waters.

The vision in this passage represents God’s ability to bring life and freshness to places that seem desolate. It encourages believers to trust in God’s transformative power, believing that His influence can turn barrenness into abundance and bring life to areas that seemed inhospitable.

Jonah 1:12

He said to them, “Pick me up and hurl me into the sea; then the sea will quiet down for you, for I know it is because of me that this great tempest has come upon you.”

In Jonah 1:12, Jonah, realizing that he is the cause of the storm, instructs the sailors to throw him into the sea. This act leads to the calming of the sea, highlighting the consequences of disobedience and the need for repentance.

Jonah’s willingness to sacrifice himself for the sake of others underscores the importance of repentance and taking responsibility for one’s actions. This verse challenges believers to examine their own lives and, if necessary, make difficult decisions for the greater good.

Luke 21:25

“And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the roaring of the sea and the waves.”

In Luke 21:25, Jesus speaks about the signs preceding His return, mentioning the distress of nations due to the roaring of the sea and waves. This imagery conveys the profound impact of cosmic events on the natural world.

This verse serves as a reminder of the biblical perspective on the end times. It encourages believers to be vigilant and discern the signs of the times, understanding that even the elements bear witness to the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan.

Exodus 14:21-22

Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and the Lord drove the sea back by a strong east wind all night and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided. And the people of Israel went into the midst of the sea on dry ground, the waters being a wall to them on their right hand and on their left.

In Exodus 14:21-22, God performs a miraculous act by parting the Red Sea, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground. This event symbolizes God’s power to make a way where there seems to be none.

The parting of the Red Sea stands as a testament to God’s deliverance and the fulfillment of His promises. It encourages believers to trust in God’s ability to open paths and overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles in their lives.

Psalm 148:7-8

Praise the Lord from the earth, you great sea creatures and all ocean depths, lightning and hail, snow and clouds, stormy winds that do his bidding.

Psalm 148:7-8 invites all aspects of creation, including the vastness of the oceans and the creatures within, to join in praise of the Lord. It highlights the interconnectedness of creation in acknowledging God’s authority over diverse elements.

This passage prompts believers to recognize the entirety of creation as participants in the chorus of praise to God. It underscores the significance of the oceans and their inhabitants in glorifying the Creator.

Matthew 14:22-33

Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.

This passage recounts the well-known story of Jesus walking on water and Peter’s attempt to do the same. The interaction with the sea becomes a powerful metaphor for faith and trust.

The narrative challenges believers to step out in faith, even in the face of turbulent circumstances. It illustrates the importance of keeping focus on Christ amid life’s storms.

Psalm 139:9-10

If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me.

Psalm 139:9-10 beautifully expresses the omnipresence of God. Whether in the heights of the morning or the depths of the sea, God’s guiding and protective hand is ever present.

This verse brings comfort to believers, assuring them that God is intimately involved in every aspect of their lives, even in the seemingly isolated or challenging moments.

Revelation 4:6-11

and before the throne there was, as it were, a sea of glass like crystal. And around the throne, on each side of the throne, are four living creatures, full of eyes in front and behind: the first living creature like a lion, the second living creature like an ox, the third living creature with the face of a man, and the fourth living creature like an eagle in flight. And the four living creatures, each of them with six wings, are full of eyes all around and within, and day and night they never cease to say, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!” And whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to him who is seated on the throne, who lives forever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before him who is seated on the throne and worship him who lives forever and ever. They cast their crowns before the throne, saying, “Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will, they existed and were created.”

Revelation 4:6-11 describes the heavenly scene before the throne of God, with a sea of glass symbolizing purity and the constant worship of God by heavenly beings.

This vision offers a glimpse into the eternal worship that takes place before God’s throne. It encourages believers to reflect on the holiness of God and participate in a life of continuous worship.

Psalm 23:2-3

He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

Though not explicitly mentioning the sea, Psalm 23:2-3 metaphorically portrays God as a shepherd leading His people beside still waters, symbolizing tranquility and restoration.

This verse conveys the comforting and nurturing role of God in the lives of believers. It encourages trust in God’s guidance and assurance of restoration.

Psalm 46:1-3

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling.

Psalm 46:1-3 emphasizes God’s role as a refuge and source of strength, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. The imagery of mountains moving into the heart of the sea symbolizes the upheavals of life, yet the psalmist expresses confidence in God’s unfailing presence.

This verse provides assurance to believers that, despite the tumultuous nature of life, God remains a constant and reliable source of strength and refuge. It encourages a perspective of faith that transcends circumstances.

Isaiah 43:2

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire, you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.

Isaiah 43:2 conveys the promise of God’s presence and protection in the midst of life’s challenges. The metaphor of passing through waters and rivers symbolizes various trials, yet God assures His people that they will not be overwhelmed.

This verse offers a comforting message of God’s faithfulness during difficult times. It encourages believers to trust in God’s enduring presence and the assurance that, with Him, they can navigate challenges without being overcome.

Psalm 8:6-8

You have given him dominion over the works of your hands; you have put all things under his feet, all sheep and oxen, and also the beasts of the field, the birds of the heavens, and the fish of the sea, whatever passes along the paths of the seas.

Psalm 8:6-8 reflects on humanity’s dominion over creation, including the fish of the sea. This dominion comes with the responsibility to steward and care for God’s creation.

The verses underscore the role of humanity as stewards of the earth, including the seas. It encourages believers to approach environmental responsibility with a sense of accountability for the world entrusted to them by God.

Amos 9:6

It is he who builds his upper chambers in the heavens and founds his vault upon the earth; who calls for the waters of the sea and pours them out upon the surface of the earth—the Lord is his name.

Amos 9:6 portrays God as the architect of the heavens and the earth, with control over the waters of the sea. This imagery emphasizes God’s authority over the elements.

This verse instills a sense of awe for the Creator who not only establishes the cosmic structures but also governs the natural forces, including the vastness of the seas. It encourages believers to recognize God’s supreme authority.

Psalm 107:35-36

He turns a desert into pools of water, a parched land into springs of water. And there he lets the hungry dwell, and they establish a city to live in.

Psalm 107:35-36 speaks of God’s transformative power, turning barren places into flourishing landscapes with water. The imagery suggests God’s ability to bring life and sustenance to the most desolate areas.

These verses inspire hope in believers, emphasizing God’s capacity to bring renewal and abundance even to seemingly hopeless situations. It encourages trust in God’s transformative work in various aspects of life.

Psalm 107:23-32

Some went down to the sea in ships, doing business on the great waters; they saw the deeds of the Lord, his wondrous works in the deep. For he commanded and raised the stormy wind, which lifted up the waves of the sea. They mounted up to heaven; they went down to the depths; their courage melted away in their evil plight; they reeled and staggered like drunken men and were at their wits’ end. Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed. Then they were glad that the waters were quiet, and he brought them to their desired haven.

Psalm 107:23-32 recounts the experience of sailors facing a fierce storm and their deliverance through God’s intervention. The narrative highlights both the perilous nature of the sea and the transformative power of God’s mercy.

This passage underscores the idea that even in the midst of life’s storms, God has the power to calm turbulent waters. It encourages believers to turn to God in times of distress, trusting in His ability to bring peace and guidance.

Job 41:1-2

“Can you draw out Leviathan with a fishhook or press down his tongue with a cord? Can you put a rope in his nose or pierce his jaw with a hook?”

Job 41:1-2 introduces the concept of Leviathan, a powerful sea creature, to emphasize the incomprehensible might of God. The imagery challenges Job’s understanding of God’s sovereignty.

These verses contribute to the broader theme of God’s supremacy. The reference to Leviathan serves as a reminder of the unfathomable power of God, encouraging humility and awe in the face of divine authority.

Revelation 15:2

And I saw what appeared to be a sea of glass mingled with fire—and also those who had conquered the beast and its image and the number of its name, standing beside the sea of glass with harps of God in their hands.

Revelation 15:2 describes a heavenly scene with a sea of glass, symbolizing purity and victory over adversity. Those who conquered the challenges are depicted standing beside this sea.

This verse presents an image of triumph over trials, portraying the sea of glass as a backdrop to the victory celebration. It encourages believers to persevere through challenges with the assurance of ultimate victory.

Psalm 95:5

The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land.

Psalm 95:5 succinctly expresses God’s ownership and creative authority over the sea and the dry land.

This verse serves as a foundational statement about God’s sovereignty over creation. It prompts believers to recognize the divine craftsmanship in every aspect of the natural world.

Mark 1:17

And Jesus said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men.”

In Mark 1:17, Jesus uses the metaphor of fishing to call His disciples to a higher purpose—becoming “fishers of men.”

This verse challenges believers to see beyond the literal interpretation of the sea and fish, inviting them to participate in the divine mission of spreading the message of salvation.

Psalm 93:3-4

The floods have lifted up, O Lord, the floods have lifted up their voice; the floods lift up their roaring. Mightier than the thunders of many waters, mightier than the waves of the sea, the Lord on high is mighty!

In Psalm 93:3-4, the psalmist poetically describes the power of the Lord, using the imagery of mighty waters to convey God’s supremacy over any tumultuous situation.

This passage emphasizes the unrivaled might of God, portraying His authority as greater than the forceful waves of the sea. It encourages believers to trust in the unmatched power of the Lord in the face of life’s challenges.

Psalm 107:43

Whoever is wise, let him attend to these things; let them consider the steadfast love of the Lord.

Psalm 107:43 serves as a conclusion to a chapter recounting various situations of distress and God’s deliverance. The call to wisdom and reflection centers on acknowledging the enduring love of the Lord.

This verse prompts believers to reflect on the preceding stories of deliverance and recognize the common thread of God’s steadfast love. It encourages a response of gratitude and wisdom in acknowledging the Lord’s faithfulness.

Matthew 4:19

And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

In Matthew 4:19, Jesus uses the metaphor of fishing to call His disciples into a new purpose—bringing people into the Kingdom of God.

This verse extends an invitation to believers to participate in the redemptive work of Christ, encouraging them to share the message of salvation with others.

Job 26:10

He has inscribed a circle on the face of the waters at the boundary between light and darkness.

Job 26:10 poetically describes God’s creative act of inscribing a circle on the face of the waters, representing the boundary between light and darkness.

This verse illustrates the precision and intentionality of God’s creation, highlighting the boundary between contrasting elements. It encourages believers to appreciate the intricate design in the natural world.

Psalm 36:6

Your righteousness is like the mountains of God; your judgments are like the great deep; man and beast you save, O Lord.

Psalm 36:6 uses the metaphor of the great deep to describe the depth and unfathomable nature of God’s judgments and righteousness.

This verse portrays God’s righteousness and judgments as profound and unsearchable, paralleling the vastness of the great deep. It encourages believers to trust in the wisdom and justice of the Lord.

Also Read: 25+ Bible Verses About Sports (with Explanation)

What Does the Bible Say About Ocean

Symbolism for Turmoil and Challenges: Psalm 93:3-4: The imagery of mighty waters and waves is used to symbolize challenges. The psalmist declares God’s mightiness over such tumult, encouraging trust in the Lord’s supremacy.

A metaphor for God’s Unfathomable Wisdom: Job 26:10: The act of inscribing a circle on the face of the waters symbolizes God’s profound and intentional design, emphasizing the boundaries and precision in creation.

Deliverance and Redemption: Psalm 107:23-32: Describes sailors facing a storm at sea and God’s intervention, underlining the theme of God’s deliverance and transformative power over challenging situations.