Life throws curveballs — and that doesn’t change when you become a Christian. Dealing with personal loss, financial hardships, or health problems can be incredibly difficult parts of the Christian life, but thankfully, God provides wisdom and encouragement in His word to help us face tough times like these. Below are seven Bible verses for facing challenges in life that you can turn to when you are feeling discouraged.
7 Bible Verses for Facing Challenges in Life
7. Isaiah 41:10
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
This verse is a declaration straight from God that He will be present in your hardship and will strengthen and uphold you. That’s not a maybe, it’s a guarantee from the Creator.
6. Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Even when things feel broken or unfair, God is at work behind the scenes, crafting something good for those who trust in Him. Your current trial will ultimately be used by God for your good.
5. James 1:2–4
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”
Hardships aren’t wasted in God’s Kingdom. Based on these verses from the book of James, we can clearly see the way that trials grow something eternal in us: perseverance, along with maturity and a stronger faith.
4. Psalm 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
This verse reminds us that we are not alone when we are brokenhearted; God is near to us. He saves us when our spirits are crushed, and endured the cross so that we could be saved eternally. No amount of hardship or suffering can take that away.
3. Philippians 4:6–7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
This passage reminds us to take all of our concerns and needs to God instead of giving in to waves of anxiety. It’s easier said than done, but the more you submit your requests to God, the closer you’ll feel to Him.
2. 2 Corinthians 12:9
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
As Paul writes, God’s grace is sufficient, and His power is made perfect in weakness. When you’ve run out of strength, God will come through.
1. Proverbs 3:5–6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
When hardships come, it’s tempting to strike out on your own instead of turning to and trusting God. However, turning to the Lord in hard times will give you a clear sense of direction, even when it feels like all is lost.
God Is With You in Your Hardships
Whatever challenge you’re facing right now, know that God is not surprised by your situation, and He has not abandoned you in it. These verses remind us that even when life feels overwhelming, we serve a God who is bigger than our biggest difficulties.
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