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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 7 votes

    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 7 votes

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

  • John 16:33 5 votes

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

  • 1 Peter 5:7 4 votes

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

  • Romans 8:18 4 votes

    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 3 votes

    For I know the thoughts that I think toward you,” says Yahweh, “thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you hope and a future. You shall call on me, and you shall go and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You shall seek me and find me, when you search for me with all your heart.

  • Philippians 4:13 3 votes

    I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

  • James 1:2-4 3 votes

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

  • Psalms 9:9-10 3 votes

    Yahweh will also be a high tower for the oppressed; a high tower in times of trouble. 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 2 votes

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

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