10 Bible verses that can help in times of distress
By Ilana Blumstein
In a world dominated by uncertainty and constant unpredictability, mental illness is on the rise. From the unprecedented effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic to the recent rise in police brutality, our world has suffered great harm that, for many, is permanent.
For many of us, these last few years have resulted in great loss and deprivation, consequently having caused an overbearing feeling of loneliness. Turning to faith provides those that are struggling with a sense of belonging and connection. Whether it’s attending a shabbat dinner or going to a community service event at your church, faith is constantly surrounded by love and connection.
Despite the difficult challenges that are impacting us daily, we must continue to live life to the fullest and reach our human potential. Here are ten scriptures from the Bible that can heal us and promote healthy living.
- You have a future
“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:4)
No matter how troubling our current circumstances are, always remember that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. God knows exactly how much distress we can handle, and he will be there every step of the way to ensure we achieve bliss and happiness on our life journey. Our lived experiences serve as a reminder for how strong and courageous each of us are and paves the way for growth.
- You are constantly growing
“Not only that, but we must rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit has been given to us.” (Romans 5:3-5)
Everything that happens to us, happens for a reason, and is intended to make us stronger and more powerful individuals. With every lived experience comes a lesson learned, thereby making us more able to appreciate the world’s hidden treasures. When you are going through a difficult time, always remember that God has a special plan for you.
- You are stronger than you think you are
“Because of the suffering your enemy will inflict on you during the siege, you will eat the fruit of the womb, the flesh of the sons and daughters the LORD your God has given you.” (Deuteronomy 28:53)
Overcoming the most difficult hardships will be met with God’s grace. In times of suffering, always remember that God is here to repair you in times of need. Although it may seem like God is hiding when you need him the most, he is acknowledging your strength in times when you cannot recognize yourself and the bravery you hold. You are stronger than you believe, for you are stronger than your worst enemy.
- You always have an ally
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)
Regardless of the obstacles that may come your way, God will never leave your side, in our worst of times and in our best of times. Even though we all experience hardships throughout the course of our lives, God will ensure that we are met with happiness and peace for his life purpose is to spread fulfillment.
- You are accepting
“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.” (Psalm 23:4)
God has a plan for every single one of us and that plan may involve going through a difficult experience to learn a valuable lesson. Fear is inevitable and acceptance of experiencing fear takes both wisdom and courage. We must trust God and all that he has to offer us in this world for he is both purposeful and kind.
- You are irreplaceable
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” (Psalm 73:26)
In moments where we feel defeat, God is using his everlasting strength to guide us in the right direction. In moments where we are not strong enough to help ourselves, God is there to transfer some of his light unto us. No matter how broken we feel, there will always be a piece of us that can be strengthened by God’s embrace.
- You are honest
“Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)
We have all done things that we are not proud of as a part of life consists of learning from one’s mistakes. We must not feel extreme guilt for sinning is human nature and is thus forgiven. Conversing with those that we trust about our regrets and past lived experiences have the power to shed wisdom and encourage positive new beginnings.
- You are cherished
“Worship the Lord your God, and his blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away sickness from among you.” (Exodus 23:25)
In exchange for loving and believing in God, we will be promised a happy and healthy life for God’s powers are both magical and trustworthy. Believing in God and all he has to offer will provide you with everlasting security. He is the gateway to paradise and the promised land.
- You are seen
“Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from the distress. He sent out his word and healed them; he rescued them from the grave. Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds of mankind.” (Psalm 107:19-21)
It is never too late to turn to prayer as a means for overcoming harm. God’s powers extend to all of us for his heart will not be full until the weakest have been brought back to life. Praying does not reflect weakness; it reflects strength since God is always there to answer our prayers.
- You are everlasting
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39)
The relationship we hold with God is so powerful that not even death can prevent it from leaving our hearts. For the rest of eternity, God will remember every single one of us and the mark we left on this world. Thanks to God we will never be forgotten.
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