Bible Verses for Hard Times
When the road is steep, these verses promise a strength that is not your own and a God who walks it with you.
The Bible speaks to hard times. Verses such as Romans 5:3, 1 Peter 1:6, and Romans 12:12 remind us that God is near, that we can bring our hearts to him, and that we are not alone in it.
“And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;”
Romans 5:3“Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:”
1 Peter 1:6“Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;”
Romans 12:12“Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.”
Psalms 34:19“Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.”
Acts of the Apostles 14:22“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;”
James 1:2“That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:”
1 Peter 1:7“Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.”
James 5:11“For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;”
2 Corinthians 4:17“Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.”
James 1:3“We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;”
2 Corinthians 4:8“Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me.”
Psalms 138:7
These verses are offered for comfort and are not a substitute for professional care.
A new verse every morning, chosen for your heart, in the app.
Common questions
What does the Bible say about hard times?
The Bible speaks to hard times. Verses such as Romans 5:3, 1 Peter 1:6, and Romans 12:12 remind us that God is near, that we can bring our hearts to him, and that we are not alone in it.
What is the best Bible verse for hard times?
Romans 5:3 is one of the most turned-to verses for hard times, and many also return to 1 Peter 1:6 and Romans 12:12. The best verse is the one that meets you where you are today; read a few slowly and keep the one that steadies you.
What are short Bible verses for hard times?
Short, easy-to-hold verses for hard times include James 1:3, James 1:2, and Romans 12:12. A single line, read slowly and carried through the day, can quiet a hard moment.
Which Psalm helps with hard times?
Psalms 34:19 is a comforting psalm for hard times. The Psalms give honest words for what the heart feels, from sorrow to trust, which is why so many return to them.
How can I use these Bible verses for hard times?
Read one verse slowly, take a breath, and turn it into a short prayer in your own words. Keep it somewhere you will see it, and let it be a companion through the day rather than a task to finish.