Whether we view life as a roller coaster or a carousel, the endless motion can dizzy us and throw us off course without the stability of God’s Word. However, God’s gives us strength in hard times to emerge from every challenge, thriving and encountering a fresh dimension of glory.
Jesus has already secured victory, having conquered every principality and power that masterminds the evil we see playing out in the world (Colossians 2:15; Ephesians 6:12). While this may be part of our reality, trials are not meant to defeat us, but rather to learn facets of God’s character and become more like Jesus.
While we learn much through these experiences, we can refer to the Scripture to gather the grace needed to chart through difficulty and Bible verses to find strength in hard times.
God’s Word releases purpose.
When we read, study, and apply Scriptural principles, we heal, grow, and change. Furthermore, we gather insight into our own identity and kingdom authority as sons and daughters. God has fashioned us with a holy calling that we don’t have to cower from. We can walk confident and worthy of this, simply because He has called us (2 Timothy 1:9; Ephesians 4:1; 1 Peter 2:9).
The unique assignments that God has prepared us for await us to exercise the natural and spiritual gifts with which He has equipped us (Ephesians 2:10; 1 Corinthians 12:4, 12-13). In doing so, the active nature of God’s Word works from within to help us advance the gospel, discipling others through our testimony and life transformation.
God’s Word releases power.
There are countless unknowns we will encounter in life. However, the one answer we need above all is Jesus Himself, the Word of God (John 1:1,14). When we arm ourselves, resolving to meditate on Bible verses about strength in hard times, we release Christ’s power and authority over what threatens to consume and destroy (Luke 22:31-32; John 10:10).
The Word of God remains sure and steady. Despite the opposition, it harbors us in safety, sheltering us from the winds that howl and whip through our lives.
God’s Word releases peace.
The storms and seas may rage, battering us and leveraging their effects on our environment. While there may be times when we find peace in our life storms, there may be others where we are proven and forged as we endure uncomfortable conditions (Mark 4:39). Having a foundation firmly anchored on Christ, our Rock, enables us to stand against what would otherwise submerge us under surging waves and sweeping tide (Psalm 18:2, 31, 46).
We may not face a shipwreck like the Apostle Paul did multiple times but we face challenges remembering like Paul that when God is for us, there is nothing and no one that can stand against us (Acts 27:22-25, 36; 28:3-5; Romans 8:31). Regardless of the perils we may confront, we have a Conqueror in Christ and a Comforter in the Holy Spirit who will never flee nor forsake us (Romans 8:35-39; Deuteronomy 31:6, 8).
God’s Word releases a path forward.
The Word of God is described to be a lamp that illuminates where we are now and lights the path for us to travel when our way seems obscure (Psalm 119:105). It is also depicted as a sharpened two-edged sword that is the offensive weapon in the arsenal against our adversary in the battle for our souls (Ephesians 6:17).
God’s Word is formidable, as He honors it above His Name (Psalm 138:2). Yet, Jesus holds the only Name under heaven that garners salvation, healing, and deliverance that not only changes us but makes all things new (Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:10-11; Revelation 21:5). The Word governs, having established everything at creation under the authority of “let there be…” It still speaks its life-giving power in our lives, even as we access and apply it (Genesis 1; Job 22:28).
Bible Verses for Finding Strength in Hard Times
As we seek what the Bible has to say about navigating our hard times, we will find that God’s Word is unshakable. As all things that were made emerge from what wasn’t formed by human hands, we can count on God’s Word to remain 
despite the advancement of gross darkness (Hebrews 12:27; Isaiah 60:2).
God’s Word unearths transformation, beginning in us as we renew our minds (Romans 12:1-2). It forever alters us, empowering us to shift our surroundings with the reality of “let there be light” wherever we are (Genesis 1:26-28).
Clinging to the Word of God will transform your life. While you may be in a dark pit or difficult place, treasuring these Bible verses for finding strength in hard times will boost your faith (Romans 10:17). You aren’t alone in this, as the Holy Spirit abides in you, ready and willing to help (John 14:26-27).
There are other counseling resources available to you on this site that can help on your journey. Seek out a professional and schedule an appointment to receive support with drawing out the rich treasure that rests in you (2 Corinthians 4:7).
Photos:
“Staring at the Sea”, Courtesy of Tiana, Pexels.com, CC0 License; “Stormy Seas”, Courtesy of Lachlan Ross, Pexels.com, CC0 License; “Storm Front”, Courtesy of Arthur Brognoli, Pexels.com, CC0 License
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Kate Motaung: CuratorKate Motaung is the Senior Writer, Editor, and Content Manager for a multi-state company. She is the author of several books including Letters to Grief, 101 Prayers for Comfort in Difficult Times, and A Place to Land: A Story of Longing and Belonging...
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