Explain Bible

What does the Bible say about difficult times?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that difficult times are real, yet God remains sovereign, present, and faithful to sustain his people through them. Isaiah 41:10 calls believers not to fear because the Lord strengthens and upholds them, while Psalm 9:9-10 portrays him as a refuge for the oppressed. Jesus warns in John 16:33 that tribulation will come, but grounds hope in his victory over the world. Christians may bring every anxious burden to God in prayer, trusting his peace in Philippians 4:6-7 and casting cares on him as 1 Peter 5:7 urges. Trials can also produce steadfast faith, as James 1:2-4 teaches, and present suffering cannot compare with the coming glory promised in Romans 8:18.

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Isaiah 41:10

    Don't you be afraid, for I am with you; don't be dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you; yes, I will help you; yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.

  • Philippians 4:6-7

    [6] In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. [7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.

  • John 16:33

    I have told you these things, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have oppression; but cheer up! I have overcome the world."

  • 1 Peter 5:7

    casting all your worries on him, because he cares for you.

  • Romans 8:18

    For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which will be revealed toward us.

  • Jeremiah 29:11-13

    [11] For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says Yahweh, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you hope in your latter end. [12] You shall call on me, and you shall go and pray to me, and I will listen to you. [13] You shall seek me, and find me, when you shall search for me with all your heart.

  • Philippians 4:13

    I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.

  • James 1:2-4

    [2] Count it all joy, my brothers, when you fall into various temptations, [3] knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. [4] Let endurance have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

  • Psalms 9:9-10

    [9] Yahweh will also be a high tower for the oppressed; A high tower in times of trouble. [10] Those who know your name will put their trust in you, For you, Yahweh, have not forsaken those who seek you.

  • James 1:3-4

    [3] knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. [4] Let endurance have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

Related topics

Go deeper

Ask Explain Bible AI about difficult times and get a fuller answer from a Reformed theological perspective.

Ask what the Bible says about difficult times