The Bible is a powerful source for finding passages of consolation, strength, courage, determination and other qualities for getting through periods of suffering in life.
That's because everyone goes through times of suffering. These are God's ways of totally changing your life for the better.
In a time of tribulation, for example, your family can become more united. You can learn to take better care of your body after an illness. There are many good things that come out of difficult situations.
However, in a time of suffering, it's not always easy to see things as positive, no matter how much faith, resignation and hope in God you have. God knows that.
That's why, throughout the Bible, there are many passages to strengthen you in the midst of tribulations.
What are the best passages in the Bible to consult during times of suffering?
In this article, there is a list of the best biblical passages for you to consult in times of suffering and some comments on the true interpretation of these passages. Read it whenever you need to:
1. God is protection and a safe haven
In Nahum 1:7, it is taught that God is a refuge in times of suffering, but only for people who believe in him. This means that you have to keep faith in God in times of suffering, knowing that there is a reason and that there will be a solution.
So, when you entrust your suffering to God, keep in mind that He is in control of the situation and will alleviate your suffering when necessary and heal you once and for all.
2. Posture in the midst of life's problems
In II Corinthians 4:8-9, we are taught the right way to go through suffering and receive God's blessings afterwards. Everyone goes through difficult situations, but the way the situation is faced makes the difference between making the burden lighter or heavier.
In this sense, there's no need to despair or become extremely discouraged in the face of a problem. It's important to be patient and trust in the Lord.
This makes all the difference when it comes to reaping the rewards of a negative experience.
3. Know that you will be saved from this situation by God
In Psalm 137:7, it says that in the midst of life's problems, you have to hand the problem over to God and let him act in your life. In this sense, in a moment of suffering, you will not be alone.
Even if it's a situation in which you feel immense loneliness, with no support from family or friends, be sure that God is by your side.
4. See the little joys
Instead of complaining, being depressed, desperate, angry and other harmful and toxic feelings, it's time to walk with a little patience.
When you're facing illness, for example, carry on with your life as best you can, always observing the small joys and achievements of everyday life.
In Psalm 31:7, God asks you to rejoice in the knowledge that you will be saved, despite the troubles of life.
5. God is in control
In a situation of suffering in which the solution is not within your control, such as illness, bereavement, family conflicts, among others, there are God's designs. God is in control of the situation, as Romans 8:28 says.
All true Christians who live by the precepts of Christianity must have resignation, faith and hope in God's solution.
6. God can alleviate your problem
It may be that you can't get help from anyone, even to get things off your chest, and you just can't take it anymore. In this sense, it's possible to pray and ask God for help to at least get some relief, as shown in Psalms 120:1-2.
7. Don't just live with worries
It's hard to distract your thoughts and feelings when you're going through a difficult time. However, as Matthew 6:34 teaches, you have to hope for a better tomorrow, since your suffering won't last forever.
So hold on to good feelings, situations, thoughts, memories and good expectations for the future.
8. Practice charity
Helping others brings joy to the heart, even if it's small, as you're going through times of difficulty. However, as stated in II Corinthians 1:3-4, it is expected of any Christian to comfort those most in need, just as God offers His comfort to you.
With a lot of faith and positivity, she writes for Pray and Faith, bringing messages and Divine teachings to everyone.