9 Scripture Verses For Times of Worry, Trouble & Testing

For thousands of years, Christians have turned to scripture, and praying scripture, in times of worry and when they feel overwhelmed. 

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”  Psalms 46:1

When you pray scripture it is said that you pray God's promises back to Him. And so, how can His own words not be efficacious? 

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”  John 16.33

He is a God who keeps His promises.

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”  Isaiah 41:10

There is a peace in those who surrender to Him.

 “And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.”  Colossians 3:15

Place a note with one of these verses on your bathroom mirror, or by your bedside, or above your kitchen sink. Breathe in and out deeply and slowly as you pray the scripture, asking God for the graces you need. 

2 Corinthians 4:16-18  “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.  For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.  So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

We often lean on others, a friend...a loved one, to share our burdens and troubles. Our Lord is all those things and more! 

Romans 5:3-5  “ Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.  And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”

Scripture can lift us out of this world and remind us of the next, giving us perspective. 

James 1:2-4  “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

In that new perspective, we can find strength and grow character. 

James 1:12  “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”

It's hard for me to remember the stress of college finals testing and the worry of grades, but I have two sons who are in the midst of that and I pray they will grow from this experience, in faith and knowledge. 

God does provide us with experiences to draw close to Him.