While many outside the faith or those who are new to it assume that the Christian life is one of ease and tranquility, in reality, living a life solely devoted to Christ doesn’t always yield itself to sunshine and rainbows. In fact, in some ways, it can seem as if being a Christian brings with it more hardships than we would otherwise face. Furthermore, Christ himself faced troubles, endured hardships and was crucified on a cross for our sins, in a painful, horrific death. He himself, Christ, our example didn’t face an easy path.

In fact, as a Christian, you are almost guaranteed to face times of trial, hard times that will challenge your faith as metal is forged through a burning flame. Thankfully, though, we are not left to face these hard times on our own. We have scripture that is a comfort to us as we live through the hard days and make our way through this life, daily committing ourselves to continued faith in Christ. The following is a compilation of some of the best Bible verses that comfort in times of trial and testing:

Philippians 4: 12-13

“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

These words, written by the apostle Paul, are some of the most commonly associated with “making it through tough times.” If you pay attention to the wording within the verse, it’s interesting to note that we aren’t automatically content. As the verse says, Paul learned the secret of being content. He learned the secret, it wasn’t inborn. He had to learn that Christ strengthened him throughout the hard times, and he could be content no matter what he faced. Interestingly enough, Paul faced a lot, including being imprisoned, shipwrecked, beaten and more. Let’s just say, Paul knows what he is talking about when he is addressing how to endure a time of need or distress.

2 Thessalonians 3:3

“But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.”

While it’s not pleasant to think about, there is an evil one, the devil, who wants to cause issues for believers. Thankfully, the Lord protects us from the evil one, only allowing what He has ordained to happen in our lives. Therefore, it’s important to focus on the Lord during hard times, committing ourselves to Him, who is our faithful protector who gives us the strength to keep going. One day at a time.

1 Peter 5:10

“And the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.”

When going through hardship, like sickness or chronic pain, it can seem like our suffering will never end. It can feel as if our future is hopeless and bleak, with only more trouble up ahead. Thankfully, this isn’t the case. Because of Christ, we will be restored and made strong, firm and steadfast once again. Our suffering won’t last forever, just for a little while!

Deuteronomy 31: 6,8

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Simply living life can be a pretty scary prospect sometimes in this world we live in. We might fear what those who oppose believers might do to us if we live for Christ. We might worry about job security or even fear for our lives in some extreme cases. Thankfully, though, we don't have to be terrified or afraid over what mere man can do to us, because the Lord goes with us, and He will never leave us or forsake us in our need.

James 1:5

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”

Knowing what to do and when to do it in life can get downright confusing sometimes. Thankfully, God gives wisdom to us generously, helping us to know what decisions to make in life. While we might not always be able to discern what God is saying to us, we can know that He will generously guide us with His words in scripture. So, learning applicable verses can point us in the right direction.

Romans 8:31

“What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”

When we are facing hardships, times of testing, and problems of all kinds, it can seem like the world itself is against us, everything working to make life harder to live on a daily basis. However, in reality, if we are in Christ and believe in Him, we don’t have to worry about who might be against us, because no one, nothing, is as powerful and mighty is our God. His love, His justice and His mercy are beyond compare.

God’s Got You

The beauty of the word of God and the peace that it gives us as believers is that although the surrounding storms may rage on, God’s got us right where we are, holding us up, giving us strength and producing in us perseverance for the days ahead. As a reminder to trust God when things get tough, consider purchasing Christian apparel, with a purpose and eternal message through Love in Faith. When you find yourself turning inward and looking at yourself and your own wisdom to get through your day, the message on your shirt will remind you that it's God’s wisdom, encouraging Bible verses for hard times that keep you going even when you feel like giving up and giving in.