Turning to the scripture’s promises can bring peace and reassurance in times of struggle and hardship. Here are 10 Bible verses that I turn to in times of need that I find particularly comforting. These encouraging Bible verses are quoted from the New Revised Standard Updated Edition (NRSVUE):
1. Matthew 11:28-30 – “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Jesus promises that we do not have to carry our burdens alone and that we may turn to him for comfort when we are overwhelmed. It also affirms Jesus’ compassion and sincerity, and how doing so will provide our souls peace and comfort. This verse’s message gives us hope and reassurance that we may always turn to Jesus for rest and serenity.
2. Romans 8:26 – “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words.”
Romans 8 is one of the great chapters for comfort. For me, it is one of the most comforting chapters of the Bible. This verse reminds us that even when we don’t know how to pray, the Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. I love the notion of sighing because sometimes our pain is so deep, we don’t even have words to describe it. It comes out as a sigh. The Apostle Paul gives us a sense of comfort that even when we don’t have the words to express ourselves, we can rely on the Spirit to communicate our deepest needs to God. The verse gives a reassurance that God understands and responds to our needs even when we cannot put them into words.
3. Philippians 4:7 – “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
I use this verse as part of the benediction at the conclusion of our worship services. It evokes a sense that when everything is falling apart, we can still access inner peace—a peace that surpasses understanding. That is, our peace is not circumstantial, dependent on what is happening in the current moment. This abiding peace within us would make others wonder why you aren’t freaking out.
4. Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.”
Isaiah ministered at a time when situations beyond anyone’s control wreaked havoc and upset their lives. Isaiah offers a message of comfort to them from God. This Bible verse about strength is a passage we can apply to remind us that we, too, have a source of hope and courage in the most difficult of times, to help us through.
5. Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth.”
The author of this psalm urges us to stop, be still, and consider God’s strength and presence, emphasizing that God can bring something good out of any situation. This verse also reminds us of God’s greatness and power, which can bring us comfort and security even in chaotic circumstances. The psalm instills a sense of calm and assurance that God is there in our trials, and we can take solace in that knowledge.
6. Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge God, and God will make straight your paths.”
This verse serves as a reminder to acknowledge God in all our ways and to put our reliance on God alone, not on our own understanding. We don’t see things from God’s perspective, especially when panic mode sets in. Remain faithful during hardship; your path will become more apparent over time.
7. Psalm 30:5b – ” …Weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes with the morning.”
I love the poetic imagery that gives us a sense of hope and reassurance that even in the darkest of times, joy will come in the morning. Hard times come and hard times go. This may be a season of “night” for you, of darkness and pain or confusion. The night does not last forever. You may only feel the darkness right now, but hold on. Joy comes with the morning!
8. Revelation 21:5 – “And the one who was seated on the throne said, ‘See, I am making all things new.’ Also he said, ‘Write this, for these words are trustworthy and true.’”
This verse serves as a reminder that God continually renews and creates new things, and that we can put our faith in God’s promises. It provides us comfort and hope that we may rely on God’s promise of fresh starts even in the thick of our struggles. It also inspires us to cling to God’s promises and word.
9. John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.”
When Jesus told the disciples he would not be with them physically for much longer, he gave them a promise of inner peace. He said his peace is unlike anything we can find anywhere else. It’s the peace that comes through knowing Jesus is spiritually with us and will help us get through hard times.
10. Psalm 23:4 – “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me, your rod and your staff they comfort me.”
The verse in Scripture that comforts me the most is “For you are with me.” The 23rd psalm is one of our favorites because it gives us comfort in knowing that God is with us no matter what. It isn’t a promise that God will lift us above trouble and help us escape. It is a promise of a spiritual, comforting presence that is with us and for us through our troubles. You can find my sermon on the 23rd psalm here.
These are only a few verses from the Bible that are encouraging and reassuring while we are struggling. I urge you to consider these scriptures and seek out others that speak to you personally. Keep in mind that the words of the Bible are more than simply letters on paper; they reassure us of God’s power God’s good intentions for us. May they bring you comfort, hope, and peace.