Posted by A lot of individuals battle with tribulations that come with life but you don’t have to fret, for the Bible has provided us with relieving scriptures that would strengthen us to overcome those hard times.
The Bible is a powerful Book that can guide and help motivate us in hard phases of our lives. it stands as a beacon of hope and assurance to every individual who remains diligent in Christ that they will surely be saved.
Scientifically, the accumulation of stress can be quite lethal for an individual. It often leads to issues as one grows older. The Bible has guiding principles for situations where stress seems to be the order of the day.
Understanding these scriptures that have been provided in this post is essential, for it will give you hope for the future.
The Greatest Teacher and Exemplar for all Christians
God our Father is an example for all Christians to learn and understand how to go about stressful times. Powerful as He is, He rested on the seventh day of creation. Not because He needed the rest, but rather because He intended to show us the importance of it.
We need to understand that God wants the best for us. He wishes that we prosper and have good health at all times. There isn’t success without failure, though, we must face obstacles if we’re to be over-comers.
They say tough times don’t last, but tough people do. The journey of life is not an easy one and sometimes we tend to tire out along the way. Things don’t always go as planned, we have to work so hard at times to make ends meet. Knowing all of this doesn’t make the struggles go away, you have to push through every day.
Signs that you’re undergoing Stressful Times
There are periods in life when we feel overwhelmed and overworked. Occasions where we just want to relax and be taken care of. Some people do not have that luxury due to the weight of responsibility on their shoulders. So, how do we identify such periods in our lives? What exactly is it characterized with?
Generally, there are a lot of indicators of stress. It’s a period where an individual is unable to carry out some duties effectively. A few of them include:
I.) Error in decision-making
As a person, you are required to make choices that will probably affect you and the people around you. You cannot escape this responsibility, even as a child. Advancing in years makes the responsibility more obvious.
Sometimes it can be hard, especially when faced with an impossible situation like King Solomon was in the Bible. He wouldn’t have received praise if he had made an error when judging those two women.
A standard game of chess involves a lot of tactical brainwork. Someone who is stressed cannot partake in this game because his mental fortitude is lacking at that moment in time. Stressful times are characterized by poor decision-making, hence we have to take the steps to overcome or get through the condition.
Our future is determined by the present. The steps we take now, make what’s ahead of us good or bad. You can rely on God’s word to get past stress because He is the Great Healer! God is kind and His words give hope and comfort in challenging periods.
II.) Excess Fatigue
Stress is synonymous with fatigue. One cannot do without the other. We become tired and weak when swamped because we aren’t machines. As a reference, even God rested.
Fatigue can lead to physical, mental, and spiritual breakdown in some individuals. Especially when the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak (Matthew 26:41). Some of us don’t have a support system and believe we just have to keep going.
This doesn’t always have to be the case. Jehovah is the best support system there is. He will look after you because you are His own. We have been repurchased by Salvation. Yes, we are encouraged to be diligent in the Bible (Proverbs 22:29) but also advised to rest (Exodus 34:21).
III.) Taking out frustration on people
We mentioned earlier that stress and stressful periods lead us to make poor decisions. It also makes us itchy and uncomfortable. We’re never really settled and always thinking of something.
In that state of mind, everything gets on our nerves. We tend to lash out at individuals who are probably just looking out for us. It’s okay, it happens to a lot of people.
We blame others for things that are clearly not their fault. This is what stress can cause in a human being and may affect the psyche.
These are just a few signs that we’re going through stressful predicaments. Some are more obvious than others.
Why do we Experience Difficult Times?
We all have questions that we wish could be answered. We’re intelligent beings, and that makes us curious automatically. Most of the questions we want to ask have been answered in the Bible. We just have to find the answers to them.
One of those questions is why do we go through hardship and suffering? Well, the Bible gives an answer to this question.
The story of creation is a publicized one relative to religions and their practices. The book of Genesis talks about how God created the earth and put humans in charge. The devil manipulated the humans(Adam and Eve) through the snake inciting Jehovah’s wrath. In anger, he cursed all three of them.
The book of Genesis 3:17-24 gives us the details saying “And to Adam he said: “Because you listened to your wife’s voice and ate from the tree concerning which I gave you this command, ‘You must not eat from it,’ cursed is the ground on your account. In pain, you will eat its produce all the days of your life. It will grow thorns and thistles for you, and you must eat the vegetation of the field. In the sweat of your face, you will eat bread until you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken. For dust you are and to dust you will return.”
This typically depicts hardship and toil just to get by. You will “eat bread” but you’ll have to sweat to get it. At this moment, Adam’s descendants got sentenced to a life filled with obstacles.
This singular act has been dubbed the “Fall of Humanity” by historians. They were cursed as a result of their disobedience. Disobedience as we know can have great consequences. It is in the nature of man to sin and this is why we go through hard times.
Examples of Bible Characters who went through stressful times
One of the many beautiful things about the Bible is that it presents us with role models. There are people who have gone through what many of us are facing in the past in different variations. Some were killed, persecuted, maimed, or even tortured because of what they believed in.
The following are examples of people recorded in the Bible that have gone through stressful predicaments.
i.) Job: Job is a good example that we can look at. He had his riches diminished, his livestock stolen, his children killed and his wife seemingly wanted nothing to do with him anymore. As stressful times go, Job’s predicament was one of the worst. But he stayed faithful and trusted God till the end.
ii.) The Israelites: Being a slave for over 400 years can be the most stressful and worst situation. The Israelites in Egypt were no strangers to the concept. They toiled and served their masters for years on end. Eventually, God heard their cries and sent Moses to lead them out of captivity.
iii) The Widow of Zarephath: This story involves a woman who had already lost her husband and was on the verge of losing her son to the hands of famine-induced hunger. Famine can be very tough on a populace. God intervened through Elisha though and her story turned around.
iv.) Naaman the Leper: As a nobleman, leprosy is one of the worst things that can happen to you. Naaman understood it was a bad predicament and he went to Elisha to ask for healing. Lepers were treated basically like outcasts back then. He was lucky he wasn’t just a commoner. Jehovah granted him healing when he let go of his pride.
v.) Nehemiah: Sometimes stress can be in the form of hindrances. Opposition can make you feel tired and weak. That’s probably how Nehemiah felt after his enemies tried to get him to stop building the wall of Jerusalem. Regardless, he was faithful to God and his enemies were put to shame in the end.
Relieving Bible Scripture for Stressful Times
God knows what we’re going through. He’s aware of every single thing that happens in our lives, and nothing gets past him. He inspired men to study His words(The Bible) because sometimes the struggles of life may overwhelm them.
God is willing to help us if only we reach out to him. Let us therefore not be afraid to express our grievances to Jehovah who is ever ready to save. Remember, you’re a valuable asset in the kingdom of God.
Below is a list of relieving Bible verses for stressful times:
- 1 Peter 5:7
- Matthew 11:28
- 2 Thessalonians 3:16
- Jeremiah 29:11
- Proverbs 18:10
- Psalm 46:1
- Psalm 23:1
- Psalm 37:19
- Exodus 33:14
- Philippians 4:7
- Joshua 1:9
- Isaiah 41:10
- Psalm 30:5
- 2 Corinthians 12:9
- Ephesians 3:20
- Matthew 6:30
- Matthew 6:24
- Matthew 7:7
- Matthew 7:11
- John 16:24
- Psalm 55:22
- Psalm 91:11
- Psalm 91:15
- Psalm 2:7
- Deuteronomy 31:8
- Psalm 3:3
- Psalm 3:5
- Psalm 4:8
- Psalm 7:10
- Psalm 9:10.
1.) 1 Peter 5:7 [New World translation]
“While you throw all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.”
Explanation: We don’t need to worry too much, Jehovah’s got our back. He is the best support system a person could have.
2.) Matthew 11:28 [King James Version]
“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
Explanation: All you need do is come, and the Lord will welcome you with arms stretched out. He is compassionate enough to beat your burdens for you.
3.) 2 Thessalonians 3:16 [King James Version]
“Now the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all.”
Explanation: Peace by all means tells us He is willing to do whatever it takes to ease our pain. He’s willing to do just that for His beloved just as He did for Solomon.
4.) Jeremiah 29:11 [King James Version]
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”
Explanation: He wishes us no Ill. Above all else, Jehovah wants his own children to prosper in order to bless the nations.
5.) Proverbs 18:10 [King James version]
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe.”
Explanation: That is precisely what he wants us to feel; safety. We shouldn’t be scared because he is on our side.
6.) Psalm 46:1 [King James version]
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
Explanation: Readily available and accessible. That is the nature of our creator. He doesn’t sleep, neither does he slumber. He’s got 24/7 coverage non-stop.
7.) Psalm 23:1 [New World Translation]
“Jehovah is my Shepherd. I will lack nothing.”
Explanation: With God as your father, you are sure to always have what you need. That must be quite relieving to know. Bear this in mind the next time you feel down due to circumstances.
8.) Psalm 37:19 [New World Translation]
“They will not be put to shame in the time of disaster; In the time of famine they will have plenty.”
Explanation: God is not slow concerning his promises. He knows exactly what he is doing. Just like the widow of Zarephath, you too can enjoy plenty in times of scarcity.
9.) Exodus 33:14 [New World Translation]
“So he said: “I myself will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
Explanation: Oh, that is just soothing to the heart. It sounds like sweet medicine for the weak. He will take your matter personally.
10.) Philippians 4:7 [King James Version]
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Explanation: Yes! The peace of God is our portion through Christ the Redeemer. We need not fear what the world’s system looks like. He will help us out.
11.) Joshua 1:9 [New World translation]
“Have I not commanded you? Be courageous and strong. Do not be struck with terror or fear, for Jehovah your God is with you wherever you go.”
Explanation: There’s no room for fear or worry. Remind yourself every day of God’s presence that is around you. This should help keep that smile on your face.
12.) Isaiah 41:10 [King James Version]
“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
Explanation: Don’t let the struggles you’re currently facing weigh you down. Strength is promised to us. We will definitely pull through.
13.) Psalm 30:5 [King James Version]
“For His anger endureth but a moment, and in His favor is life; weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.”
Explanation: There is still hope for the saints of God. His favor is enough to help us. He assures us of the light at the end of the tunnel.
14.) 2 Corinthians 12:9 [King James Version]
“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
Explanation: Paul was a man full of hope. Being an apostle didn’t mean he was totally exempted from the struggles of life, but he was assured of victory at all times because of God’s grace. We should take a cue from him because what the Lord does for one, he does for all.
15.) Ephesians 3:20 [New International Version]
“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.”
Explanation: The word “immeasurably” connotes bountiful, plenty, beyond measure, something that cannot be quantified. More than you can possibly imagine or ask. Why then should you worry?
16.) Matthew 6:30 [American Standard Version]
“But if God doth so clothe the grass of the field, which to-day is, and to-morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?”
Explanation: If he takes care of the grass, the trees, and nature, how much more will he care for his own children? Jehovah loves his creation.
17.) Matthew 6:24 [American Standard version]
“Consider the ravens, that they sow not, neither reap; which have no store-chamber nor barn; and God feedeth them: of how much more value are ye than the birds.”
Explanation: We are heirs of salvation, a royal priesthood called out of darkness into the Lord’s marvelous light. We are valuable in the kingdom of God for there is joy over one sinner that repents in heaven.
18.) Matthew 7:7 [King James Version]
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.”
Explanation: God is holding nothing back from us. He has given us full access to his storehouse. All you have to do is ask.
19.) Matthew 7:11 [King James Version]
“If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!”
Explanation: Jesus was addressing the Pharisees here. He defends God’s credibility superbly. Think about it, why would your father withhold his riches from you? It makes no sense.
20.) John 16:24 [King James Version]
“Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name. Ask and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.”
Explanation: Sometimes we don’t ask the right way, that is why we’re going through that situation up till this time. Change that; ask in the name of Christ and your expectations will not be cut off.
21.) Psalm 55:22 [New World Translation]
“Throw your burden on Jehovah, And he will sustain you. Never will he allow the righteous one to fall.”
Explanation: Jehovah Jireh is his name. Whatever you’re going through that seems overwhelming would not be overwhelming for him. Have faith and trust in God.
22.) Psalm 91:11 [King James Version]
“For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways.”
Explanation: Your path is guided by Jehovah. You’re not allowed to be distraught. There is no reason for you to be down. When God leads, all you have to do is follow.
23.) Psalm 91:15 [New World Translation]
“He will call on me, and I will answer him. I will be with him in distress. I will rescue him and glorify him.”
Explanation: Appreciate the lord because he promises to be with us in distress. Even when friends and family forsake us, God will not.
24.) Psalm 2:7 [New World Translation]
“Let me proclaim the decree of Jehovah; He said to me: “You are my son; Today I have become your father.”
Explanation: Our earthly fathers would do whatever they could to give us the world. Imagine what your Heavenly Father would do then. You simply cannot question God’s love for us.
25.) Deuteronomy 31:8 [King James Version]
“And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.”
Explanation: This scripture provides words of encouragement and assurance from God, for He will be our strength and a source of help to us in trial times.
26.) Psalm 3:3 [New World Translation]
“But you, O Jehovah, are a shield around me, My glory and the One who lifts up my head.”
Explanation: “The one who lifts up my head” is just beautiful, honestly. Knowing someone has your back can be really relaxing. The best part is, that He will not give up on you.
27.) Psalm 3:5 [New World Translation]
“I will lie down and sleep; And I will wake up in safety, For Jehovah continues to support me.”
Explanation: Hallelujah! You have a support system that will keep you safe. You don’t need to be anxious. God is alive!
28.) Psalm 4:8 [New World Translation]
“I will lie down and sleep in peace, For you alone, O Jehovah, make me dwell in security.”
Explanation: It is more than evident that God is not going to leave us. We’re like projects in his hands and he’s not going to leave his project halfway.
29.) Psalm 7:10 [New World Translation]
“God is my shield, the Savior of those upright in heart.”
Explanation: Our protector and provider! Jehovah is with us at all times, ready to stretch out his hand to help us when we call.
30.) Psalm 9:10 [New World Translation]
“Those knowing your name will trust in you; You will never abandon those seeking you, O Jehovah.”
Explanation: As long as you put your trust in God, you will never be put to shame. He will always answer your critics on your behalf.
FAQ
In what ways might Bible verses relieve stress in hard times?
The Bible Scripture reminds people of God's presence, love, and sovereignty over their situations and offer spiritual advice, consolation, and encouragement. They provide comfort and hope, encouraging faith in God's purpose and reducing tension and anxiety.
What passages from the Bible are consoling in times of stress?
The Bible verse about can motivate you in stressful times have been provided in this article. one of them is the book of Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV), which says, 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, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
In what ways does Scripture meditation reduce tension and anxiety?
Scripture meditation is the act of giving God's Word a serious thought and enabling its truths to seep into one's heart and thinking. When you engage in this deep medication of the Bible your attention will be shifted from your worries to God's promises, promoting perspective, serenity, and faith in His faithfulness.
Is it possible to reduce stress in daily life by repeating Bible verses?
Indeed, it is possible. Repeating verses from the Bible can help you manage stress by strengthening your faith, hope, and resilience.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many verses that provide strength and help in times of stress. It can be in different forms. Naturally, we may just be tired of everything and everyone.
Other times it can be in the form of persecution or even false accusations. As long as our faith and hope is in God, we’re sure to pull through. We can emulate the actions of others he has helped in times past.
God wants us to be perfectly happy. He’s promised a new world where there will be nothing but goodwill and safety.
We can rely on God’s word when we’re confused and don’t know what step to take. He said, ask and you shall receive. These verses provided in the article should encourage us as we live our day-to-day lives knowing that Jehovah has our back.
