Get well letters
Writing to someone who is unwell
Being ill is often lonely. Days run together, visitors tire you out, and the phone feels like work. A letter is different. It can be read when they have the energy, set aside when they do not, and read again on a bad day.
Below are verses for healing and for rest, a sample letter, and some gentle guidance on what helps and what does not.
Postage included. Sealed in red wax.
Verses for a get well letter
All from the King James Bible, and all from the verses we print. When you write, we suggest verses that fit the occasion and the feeling you choose, and you pick the one that sounds right.
Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.
A simple, warm wish for their health. Fits almost any situation.
The LORD will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.
For someone confined to bed, or in hospital.
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
For a long recovery, when progress is slow.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
When recovery is uncertain, peace is a kinder promise than healing.
A sample letter
Every line here is one our letters really use. It is only a starting point: you can change every line except the verse.
THE DOVE LETTER
Faith · Encouragement · A Brighter Tomorrow
Dearest Mother,
I heard you have not been well. I have been thinking about you.
Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.
Rest, and take your time.
With love,
Emily
What to write
- Say plainly that you are thinking of them. It is the part they will remember.
- Share a little ordinary news: the garden, the family, something that made you laugh. Normal life is a welcome visitor.
- Offer practical help, like walking the dog, picking up groceries, or driving to an appointment.
- Give them permission to rest. “No need to write back” is a gift.
What to avoid
- Promising they will recover when no one knows. Hope and comfort are kinder than certainty.
- Medical opinions, or stories about someone else with the same illness.
- Expecting a reply, or a progress report.
How it works for a get well letter
When you choose “They are unwell”, we offer only a gentle or a direct tone. The sender of a get-well letter rarely knows the full picture, so we never offer a cheerful one.
If they are in hospital or staying with family, we can post the letter to your home so you can bring it to them.
Posted the same or next business day. USPS typically delivers in 2 to 5 days, though this is not guaranteed.
Write your letter
Answer three questions and your letter appears as you go. Change any line, then we seal it and post it.
- Your letter
- A pastor's note
- A small step for today
- A surprise gift
Letters for other occasions
- Sympathy lettersWhat to say when someone is grieving, and verses that comfort.
- Letters of encouragementFor someone going through a hard season, and verses that strengthen.
- Birthday lettersVerses that celebrate a life, and ideas for making it personal.
- Thank-you lettersHow to say thank you so it is felt, with verses on gratitude.