Everyone goes through tough times. So here are 10 bible verses to help you cope.
1. Romans 12:2
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Our society and the world we live in is innovative and constantly changing. Instead of dwelling on the past, or judging people for something that used to be socially unacceptable, I think it's important to actually want change. Too many people in this world judge others for sinning differently than them, when they really should focus on opening up their mind to new ideas and concepts.
2. Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Whenever I think about the kind of person I want to be, I think about this verse. I'm lucky enough to actually have a voice in this world, so I might as well use it in a positive way.
3. Romans 8:18
The pain that you've been feeling, can't compare to the joy that's coming.
This verse happens to be my favorite verse. Whenever I'm feeling upset or hopeless, I just think about the fact that I've gotten through every hardship and situation that has made me feel this way. A friend sent me this at a hard time in my life, and almost immediately I realized I would be okay and eventually be happier than I had ever been before.
4. Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you a future and a hope."
I'm a strong believer that everything happens for a reason. This concept can be very debatable, but I think that for every bad thing that occurs in this world, something good has to come out of it somehow.
5. Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
There is so much to fear in this world. At a time when I'm afraid or nervous, this verse always gives me just that little bit of hope that I need. I feel more confident and more ready to take on the world.
6. Matthew 6:27-30
Wherever you are going, God has already been there and paved the way for you.
It's so hard to imagine that God has a plan for everyone, but I like to believe this is true. This goes back to the idea that everything happens for a reason. Although I may get frustrated at the time, I know that every little thing in my life is supposed to happen. For me, that was really hard to accept, but once I did, I found much more happiness in my life.
7. Proverbs 31:8
Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.
I recently stumbled upon this verse, and it couldn't have been more perfect timing. After everything people have fought for, the world is still a cruel place for people who don't have a voice. It's so important for the people who do have a voice to fight for what is right.
8. Philippians 4:6-7
6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Being a college student can be extremely stressful from time to time. When I'm anxious about grades, money and not having enough time, I take a moment to pray for relief and peace.
9. Corinthians 1:3-4
3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
When I'm afraid or stressed, I know I can find comfort in God. This comfort comes from the fact that I know everything will be okay eventually. It's so important to find comfort in yourself and to be able to comfort others in the process.
10. Psalm 138:8
The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands.
I constantly find myself questioning my purpose and what good I can bring to this world. It's so hard to make a difference in this big world full of people with contradicting ideas and beliefs. I know that somehow I can make a difference, and I hope that for some people, I already have.