10 Scriptures for Difficult Times

Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord! Psalm 27:14

God already knows what we are feeling and what we are going through in this life. Our disappointments and hardships are of no surprise to Him as He knew these things before we existed. He hears our cries He knows the battle we are faced with and He is more than capable of helping us through troubled times: disappointments, discouragement, hopelessness or anger. He understands us. After all, He is our creator, redeemer, and deliverer.

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world. John 16:33

The reality is we will all face challenges and difficulties. At times we may feel abandoned and alone. Forgotten and forsaken. As if God turned His back. But trust, we all have felt this way at one point in time—even Jesus did. On the cross during the most challenging time of His life recall what Jesus whispered, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46). But we know how this story ends—in fact we know it does not end. Jesus is our savior. He said, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10).

Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31

The challenges and disappointments we endure may bring on negative emotions such as, discouragement, frustration, anger, and hopelessness. But no matter how bleak or obscure circumstances may appear in your life or around you, stand firm in the Lord, put your confidence in Him, and wait expectantly on Him. God will deliver you. He has your back.

 The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forever more. Psalm 121:8

Let’s look at young King David for a moment. David was a young shepherd boy. The prophet Samuel prophesized David would be king of Judah one day succeeding King Saul on the throne.  This was an awesome revelation. David would be the future king surely wonderful things were to come. That’s how we would interpret Samuel’s declaration. But instead David endured many oppressed days and nights, you see, King Saul who originally admired David’s abilities and talents ultimately grew jealous of David and wanted him dead. As a result, David had to flee for his life, living on the run.

In the multitude of my anxieties within me your comforts delight my soul. Psalm 94:19

Imagine how David felt. He knew he was destined for greatness but he couldn’t see how it was going to happen during those difficult times. He grew frustrated, discouraged, and disappointed. And although his circumstances were dark and lonely, he kept his hope and spirit alive. David kept being his best, he kept the right attitude, and he sought the Lord whenever necessary. The time David spent with the Lord was substantial in building his character; he exemplified strength and unwavering faith. He trusted and became 100% reliant on God.

David encouraged himself in the Lord his God. 1 Samuel 30:6

I love David’s story. He wasn’t a perfect man, none of us are but he was/is the epitome of faith and inspiration. Despite his struggles, trials and tribulations he encouraged himself in the Lord by speaking psalms, hymns, and offering praise with his voice. This close relationship with God encouraged and led him to resist his anger, frustrations, and disappointments. He did not allow his negative emotions to rule him. David stayed in faith knowing he had seeds of greatness on the inside of him. He believed God’s promises about his future. He knew God’s plan for his life was a good one.

What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived the things God has prepared for those who love him. 1 Corinthians 2:9

Thirteen years after David was prophesied King; he fulfilled his purpose in life as King David.

Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Hebrews 11:6

How many of us have felt like David? I know I have and sometimes still do. You know your future is bright, you see the light shining from a distance but you can’t see how you’ll get there when there are disappointments, drama, illness, loss or other adversities coming against you.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

That’s when you go deeper into your word and focus on God’s promises.

Spending time with God, studying scriptures, meditating on His promises, and praying are ways to overcome negative emotions. Self-defeated thoughts brought on by anger, frustration, or hopelessness is no good for you or anyone else. We weren’t meant to live this way.  We are made to live in victory. Remember, the Lord is our light and salvation. He is our strength and our helper. Trust and believe you will live to see His promises of deliverance fulfilled in your life.

I have pitched my tent in the land of hope. Acts 2:25-28

All things may not be possible with man but all things are possible with God.

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