3 Verses to Encourage Friends Going Through Hard Times

It's not always easy to know what to say when someone's hurting.

We may not always have the perfect words as we struggle to find the best way to encourage our friends dealing with hard times.

We might feel awkward or afraid of saying something inappropriate, but avoiding them is not helpful either. We don’t want our avoidance to be mistaken for a lack of concern.

Good news! The Bible is full of hope for believers and has the perfect words for all of life’s difficulties.

Matthew 6:34 (ESV) “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”  

When a friend is overwhelmed with a long-term problem, remind them to focus on today. 

We don’t know what will happen in the future, and we cannot control it. The only action we can take is in the present moment.

We must focus on what is in front of us and how His faithfulness will carry us forward in the days ahead.  (Also see Lamentations 3:22-23)

Colossians 1:17 “And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”

When your friend’s life turns upside down, remind them that God is sovereign. He holds everything together.

Job’s life was completely out of his control when he lost his health, family, possessions, and friends.  His life was held together by God every minute, every second. (Also see Job 12:10)

Hebrews 13:5b “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

God will never abandon a believer.

In Psalm 94:18-19, God promises to support you when you lose your footing.

The Bible is a lifeline to someone whose heart is breaking or full of uncertainty. 

Here are a few suggestions to offer reassuring words to your friend:

• Write Bible verses in a card or text.

• Call to let them know you are praying for them and share a verse.

• Write Bible verses on individual slips of paper to fill a small decorated mason jar as a gift.

Bring hope and comfort to a friend who is hurting. Show God’s compassion to them in a loving way.