Clicky

What Does the Bible Say About Going Through Hard Times? – Viral Believer
Skip to content

What Does the Bible Say About Going Through Hard Times?

Introduction

Life is full of ups and downs, and as Christians, we are not immune to the struggles and challenges that come our way. However, as we face difficult times, we can take comfort in the fact that we are not alone. The Bible is filled with verses that offer hope, strength, and encouragement to those who are going through tough times. In this post, we will explore what the Bible says about going through hard times, including God’s promises, the purpose of trials, and how we can find comfort in God’s presence.

It is important for Christians to understand that God never promised us an easy life. In fact, Jesus himself warned us that we would face difficulties in this world. However, we can find peace and hope in the midst of our struggles by turning to God and trusting in his promises. Throughout the Bible, we see countless examples of people who faced trials and tribulations but were able to overcome them with God’s help. By looking to these examples, we can learn how to navigate our own difficult circumstances.

Whether you are currently going through a hard time, or simply want to be better prepared for the challenges that life may bring, this post will provide valuable insights and encouragement. By exploring what the Bible says about hard times, we can gain a deeper understanding of God’s love for us and his desire to help us through whatever difficulties we may face. So, let’s dive in and discover how we can find strength, hope, and comfort in the midst of life’s trials.

hard times in the Bible

God’s Promises in Hard Times

One of the most comforting aspects of the Bible is the many promises that God has given us, especially during times of trouble. Here are a few examples:

  • “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
  • “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” – Psalm 23:4
  • “Be anxious for nothing, 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 minds through Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7

These promises remind us that we are not alone in our struggles and that God is always with us, providing the strength and comfort we need to face each day. We can hold onto these promises and trust that God will keep his word.

The Purpose of Hard Times

Although hard times can be painful and difficult, the Bible teaches us that they serve a purpose. Here are a few scriptures that explain this:

  • “And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” – Romans 5:3-5
  • “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” – James 1:2-4

These scriptures tell us that hard times can actually help us grow and become stronger. They teach us patience, perseverance, and trust in God, and they can even lead to a deeper faith and a greater hope for the future.

God’s Presence in Hard Times

Another comforting truth that the Bible teaches us is that God is always with us, even in the midst of our struggles. Here are a few scriptures that illustrate this:

  • “The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.” – Psalm 34:18
  • “…and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” – Matthew 28:20

These verses remind us that God is not distant or aloof, but rather, he is intimately involved in our lives, especially during difficult times. We can trust that he is always there, even when we cannot feel his presence.

Responding to Hard Times

In light of these truths, how should we respond to hard times? Here are a few scriptures that offer some guidance:

  • “Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer…” – Romans 12:12
  • “Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though its waters roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with its swelling.” – Psalm 46:1-3

These verses encourage us to stay faithful and prayerful during difficult times. We should continue to rejoice in our hope in Christ, even when circumstances are challenging. We should be patient and persevere, knowing that God is working in and through our trials. And we should continue to pray, seeking God’s guidance, comfort, and strength.

Conclusion

As we’ve seen, the Bible offers a wealth of wisdom and encouragement for those who are going through hard times. By holding onto God’s promises, trusting in his purpose for our struggles, and seeking his presence, we can find the strength and hope we need to persevere. We can also respond to difficult circumstances with faith, patience, and prayer, knowing that God is working all things together for our good.

While going through hard times is never easy, it is important to remember that we are not alone. As Christians, we have the assurance that God is with us and he will never leave us or forsake us. We can also find comfort and support in our Christian community, knowing that we are all in this together.

In closing, let us remember the words of the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 4:16-18: “Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” May we always keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, and find hope and strength in him no matter what circumstances we may face.

Pastor Duke Taber
Pastor Duke Taber

Pastor Duke Taber

All articles have been written or reviewed by Pastor Duke Taber.
Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988.
Today he is the owner and managing editor of 3 successful Christian websites that support missionaries around the world.
He is currently starting a brand new church in Mesquite NV called Mesquite Worship Center, a Non-Denominational Spirit Filled Christian church in Mesquite Nevada.