In the past few years, you’ve likely heard a lot of words—words such as pandemic, fear, quarantine, isolation, or even emergency. But the words you should heed the most are those of God’s Word. This is where He gives true, everlasting comfort and strength to His people. In the coming weeks, despite school closures and social distancing, cling to these five Bible verses that offer comfort and hope, even amid times of darkness. Write them on a mirror. Save them in a note on your smartphone. Or even share them on social media!
John 16:33
“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.”
There is nothing in this life that you cannot overcome, for Christ overcame everything by His death on the cross. As Easter draws near and the Church celebrates the beauty of His resurrection, take comfort in knowing that even during this pandemic, He has a plan. Jesus knows who you are; He knows your worries and deep fears. But He knows that you will overcome all sorts of trials so long as you stay faithful to Him.
Philippians 4:4–7
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 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.”
All God’s people must continue to rejoice in Him! You must bring your worries to Him for He provides; He has given you everything in the world. God’s people must also care for one another during these times, perhaps even more so now. Bring all of your anxieties to Him, whether by reciting a prayer or speaking plainly to Him about what is causing you trouble and anxiety. He will always bring you peace, even if it might not be in the ways you would imagine.
Psalm 23:4
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and staff, they comfort me.”
During times of conflict and trial when it seems as though the “shadow of death” has started to creep in, remember that your Savior has overcome death. You should not be fearful, for through Him, you have everlasting life. Through Him, you know that sin and every evil cannot harm you, for He is your Comforter. He will ensure that you are taken care of, no matter the circumstances.
Isaiah 41:10
“Fear not for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
Finding strength in times when it seems you’re only grasping at straws is challenging. How are you supposed to continue when the world is battling against you? Look to God to find the strength to continue, even the darkest of times. Take up the armor of Christ and know that nothing can hurt you so long as you have Him. Fear not, for He has you in His hands.
Matthew 6:34
“Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”
For me, trying to remain calm when it seems like the entire world is falling apart around me can be difficult. Trying to understand what I will be doing tomorrow when it seems that there is a new press conference, debriefing, or state restriction every hour seems impossible. But Christ tells me—and you—that He will take care of each day, one at a time. You do not need to worry about tomorrow and what it may bring. All you have to do is put all of your trust in Him. God will ensure that you have everything you need. Live in the present, loving Him through it all with gratitude for every moment.
Christ’s Church is currently walking through uncertain times, but we should be doing so together. He knows His plans for you, even if you can’t see what that is just now. Take comfort in His word today and every day, knowing that even when times seem bleak, He is there to protect you, guide you, and love you through everything.
Scripture: ESV®.
The God of All Comfort
Eight Session Bible Study
Find more comfort in the words of Jesus with this Bible study by Donna Snow.
