Discover 30 powerful Bible verses about strength in difficult times and practical action steps to find hope & encouragement.
Introduction: Finding Strength in Hard Times
Life can throw us unexpected challenges—whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a season of waiting, or the struggle with self-doubt.
During these difficult moments, the Bible offers wisdom and strength.
God’s Word is filled with verses that remind us we are never alone, and that His strength is made perfect in our weakness.
Let these Bible verses about strength in difficult times refresh your spirit and encourage you!
What Does the Bible Say About Having Strength During Hard Times?
- Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
God promises to hold us up and carry us through whatever we face. We are never alone in our battles. - Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”
No matter the challenge, we have the strength we need through Christ. - 2 Corinthians 12:9 – “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
Even in our lowest moments, God’s grace is enough, and His power shines through our weakness. - Psalm 46:1 – “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
God is a steady source of strength, always available when we need Him most. - Nehemiah 8:10 – “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
In times of sorrow, God’s joy can become our source of endurance and resilience.
God Promises Strength During Difficult Times
- Joshua 1:9 – “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
God commands us to be strong, reminding us that His presence goes with us in every situation. - Psalm 27:1 – “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?”
When God is our foundation, fear loses its power over us. - Isaiah 40:31 – “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
God gives us the endurance we need, lifting us up like eagles soaring high. God provides strength in difficult times. - Deuteronomy 31:6 – “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.”
God’s promise is clear: He will never abandon us, even in the darkest of times. His presence goes with you and before you. He will sustain you! Call out and ask for His help! - Romans 8:31 – “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
With God on our side, no obstacle can stand in our way for long. Ask God to come along beside you!
Bible Verses for When You’re Going Through Hard Times
- Psalm 34:17 – “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; He delivers them from all their troubles.”
God hears every cry for help, and He is faithful to deliver us from our difficulties. - 1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
God wants us to hand over our worries and cares to Him, trusting that He deeply cares for us. - John 16:33 – “I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Jesus reminds us that although we face challenges, He has already won the victory. - Psalm 55:22 – “Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken.”
God will keep you steady, even when the weight of the world feels overwhelming. - Matthew 11:28 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
In Christ, we find rest for our souls during the hardest seasons of life.
What is a Bible Verse to Read When Life Gets Hard?
- Psalm 23:4 – “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
God is with us even in the darkest times, providing comfort and protection. - Proverbs 18:10 – “The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.”
God’s name is a safe refuge where we can find strength and protection. - 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”
God’s Spirit within us gives us the strength and courage to face whatever comes our way. - Hebrews 4:16 – “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
We can boldly seek God’s help, knowing He will meet us with mercy and grace. - Psalm 31:24 – “Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.”
Hope in the Lord fills us with strength and courage during life’s hardest moments.
Bible Verses for Strength and Endurance in Difficult Times
- James 1:12 – “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised.”
God rewards our perseverance, giving us eternal life in Him. - Exodus 15:2 – “The Lord is my strength and my defense; He has become my salvation.”
In times of struggle, God is both our strength and our Savior. - Isaiah 26:3 – “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.”
Steadfast trust in God brings unshakable peace, even in chaos. - Ephesians 6:10 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.”
Our strength is found in God’s power, not in our own abilities. - Colossians 1:11 – “Being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience.”
God’s power equips us with the endurance and patience we need to keep going.
God’s Strength is Made Perfect in Weakness
- 2 Corinthians 4:16 – “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.”
God renews our inner strength daily, even when we feel weak or worn out. - Psalm 73:26 – “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
When our own strength falters, God becomes our everlasting source of strength and hope. - Isaiah 41:13 – “For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.”
God’s promise is personal—He takes our hand and reassures us that He is there to help. - Lamentations 3:22-23 – “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”
God’s faithful love renews us each morning, giving us the strength to face another day. - 2 Corinthians 1:4 – “Who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”
God not only strengthens us in our struggles but equips us to encourage and uplift others.
Verses For Strength in Waiting
- Psalm 37:7 – “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.”
In times of waiting, God gives us the strength to be still and trust in His perfect timing. - Micah 7:7 – “But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.”
Even in the waiting, our hope and strength come from knowing that God hears us and will answer. - Romans 5:3-4 – “We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
In difficult seasons, God uses our suffering to build perseverance, character, and hope in us. - Habakkuk 3:19 – “The Sovereign Lord is my strength; He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, He enables me to tread on the heights.”
God gives us the agility and strength to climb the difficult mountains in our lives. - Psalm 62:5-6 – “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from Him. Truly He is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken.”
When we place our hope and trust in God, He becomes the unshakable foundation of our strength.
Trusting in God’s Strength During Difficult Times
As we walk through hard times, we may feel weak, but God’s strength is always available to us.
These Bible verses about strength in difficult times offers countless reminders that He will not leave us, nor will He forsake us.
In moments of fear, anxiety, or exhaustion, we can turn to these verses, trusting that God will see us through.
Lean into His promises, rely on His strength, and take comfort in knowing that He is ever-present, guiding us through every challenge life may bring.
His strength is your rock, and His peace is your guide.
10 Practical Action Steps to Find Strength in Difficult Times
- Pray Daily and Honestly
Spend time in prayer each day, being completely honest with God about your struggles and emotions. Lay your burdens at His feet, trusting that He hears you and will provide the strength you need. - Meditate on Scripture
Set aside time to read and meditate on Bible verses about strength and hope. Reflect on how these truths apply to your situation and allow God’s Word to encourage and uplift you. Start with verses like Isaiah 40:31 or Psalm 46:1. - Practice Gratitude
Each day, list three things you’re thankful for, even in the midst of challenges. Gratitude shifts your focus from the problems to the blessings, reminding you of God’s goodness and faithfulness. Use a gratitude journal. - Speak Words of Life Over Yourself
Instead of letting negative thoughts take control, speak God’s promises aloud. Declare verses like Philippians 4:13 (“I can do all things through Christ”) or Joshua 1:9 (“Be strong and courageous”) over your life. Write verses on a card and place around your house. - Seek Community and Support
Surround yourself with encouraging, faith-filled people who will pray with you and remind you of God’s promises. Whether it’s a Bible study group, a friend, or a mentor, community is essential in times of hardship. - Serve Others
Acts of kindness can lift our focus from ourselves to others. Serving others reminds us that we are important to others. We can make a difference in this life, even when life feels overwhelming. Serving others brings perspective and healing. - Journal Your Thoughts and Prayers
Writing down your thoughts, prayers, and what God is teaching you can bring clarity and peace. It’s a powerful way to process emotions and see how God is working in your life over time. - Take Care of Your Body
Physical health affects mental and emotional strength. Make time for exercise, rest, and nutritious food, which can boost your mood and energy during difficult times. Treat your body as the temple it is. - Listen to Worship Music
Worship music is a powerful way to shift your perspective and remind your soul of God’s greatness. Create a playlist of songs, tune into a Christian radio station, or click on Spotify. Worship music lifts your spirit and helps you focus on God’s strength and faithfulness during difficult times. - Focus on God’s Faithfulness in the Past
Reflect on previous times when God helped you through difficult, tough seasons. Write down these testimonies and remember that the same God who helped you before will be with you now. This builds faith and confidence in His care and provision now.
By incorporating these steps into your daily life, you can grow in faith, hope, and strength! God loves you and is with you through every difficult situation!
Related Resources:
How to Find Answers to Problems & Worries in Difficult Times: Discover how to seek God for answers that bring solutions to your problems and worries. Cultivate a mindset of inquiry for spiritual growth.
Prayers For Hope & Strength in Hard Times with Verses
4 Ways to Find Hope in Hard Times Like David in the Old Testament