In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) Jesus said these words to comfort his disciples. They were afraid. He was going away to be with the Father. They thought they would be alone without him. Jesus knew that he would not leave them alone. He had something better for them: the Holy Spirit, who would guide them and help them through all of their troubles.
But sometimes we don’t remember that God has overcome the world and that he will help us when we are having trouble. Sometimes we are so worried about our troubles that we forget that Jesus is in control. We forget to trust him and we think that our problems are bigger than God.
Jesus knows how hard it can be to trust him in hard times because he was tempted just like we are tempted (Hebrews 2:18). But he never sinned and he never stopped trusting God (Hebrews 4:15). When you feel afraid or worried about your problems, remember what Jesus did, and trust him!
Here are a few stories from the Bible about trusting God in difficult times:
There are many examples of God helping his people in their time of need. Many times, they found themselves in very difficult situations. From the story of Noah’s ark to the parting of the Red Sea, God was there for these people when they needed him most. In fact, God was always there for them. All they had to do was trust him and accept his help.
Biblical Stories about Trusting God in Difficult Times:
1. Noah’s Ark (Genesis 6-9):
In the story of Noah’s ark, God told Noah that he would send a great flood that would cover the entire earth and wipe out every living thing except for those on board the ark. While this must have been difficult to believe, Noah did believe and trusted that God would protect him and his family by sending a giant rainstorm to flood the earth. When the storm came, it did exactly what God had said it would do.
“But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD” (Genesis 6:8). These words remind us that when we trust in God, even amidst the storms of life, He will find favor upon us, guiding us towards safety and protection.
2. Abraham and Isaac (Genesis 22):
When God tested Abraham’s faith by requesting the sacrifice of his beloved son, Isaac, Abraham demonstrated extraordinary trust in God. As they ascended Mount Moriah, Isaac unknowingly became the embodiment of unwavering faith, as his father stayed resolute in his trust that God would provide an alternate offering.
“God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son” (Genesis 22:8). Abraham’s obedience and trust were met with divine provision, reminding us of God’s faithfulness even in the face of seemingly impossible circumstances.
3. Daniel in the Lions’ Den (Daniel 6):
Daniel’s unwavering commitment to prayer and trust in God landed him in the den of hungry lions. Yet, even in the face of mortal danger, he maintained his faith, knowing that God would protect him. Miraculously, God closed the mouths of the lions, sparing Daniel’s life.
“My God sent his angel and shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me because I was found innocent in his sight” (Daniel 6:22). Daniel’s example serves as a powerful testament that even when we are surrounded by adversity, God’s angels will guard and deliver us from harm.4.
After Israel went into exile, Daniel remained faithful to God. He did not eat the food of the Babylonians and did not worship their gods.
Daniel was thrown into a lions’ den for his faithfulness to God, but God saved him from the lions and caused them to shut their mouths.
- Deborah: Trusting God through the demands of life. …
- Zechariah & Elizabeth: Trusting God when a longing is unfulfilled. …
- Isaiah: trusting God through bad news. …
- Woman healed by Jesus: trusting God is taking risks despite the pain. …
- Moses: trusting God when there is no way out.
4. Moses
In another miracle, Moses parted the Red Sea so that he and his people could escape Egypt. The Egyptians were chasing after them and trying to kill them because they were afraid that if they allowed them to leave, they would never come back. Moses knew this and so he prayed to God asking him to part the sea so that they could get away from their pursuers. He trusted that God would
5. Job
Job was a good man who trusted in God
God allowed Satan to test Job, and he lost everything—his children, his wealth, his health. After losing everything, he still believed in God and did not curse him.
God rewarded Job for trusting him by restoring everything that had been taken away from him and giving him twice as much as before.
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Within the Bible, we find a treasury of stories that enlighten our understanding of trusting God in difficult times. Through the faith of Noah, Abraham, and Daniel, among numerous others, we learn that unwavering trust leads to divine favor, provision, and protection.
These stories depict ordinary individuals navigating extraordinary circumstances, serving as reminders that we too can persevere when anchored in faith. As we delve deeper into these accounts, let us be encouraged to trust God’s plan despite the challenges that may confront us, knowing that He is always there, faithfully guiding us through the voyage of life.
List of Bible Characters who Trusted God
The Bible is filled with many inspiring figures who exemplified trust in God. Here are a few examples:
- Abraham – Trusted God’s promise of descendants
- Noah – Trusted God’s warning of the flood
- Ruth – Trusted God’s provision and faithfulness
- Esther – Trusted God’s guidance in saving her people
- Paul – Trusted God’s strength in his missionary journeys
These individuals demonstrated unyielding faith in God’s promises, power, and character, showing us that trusting Him is not only possible but also rewarding.
Bible Stories About Trusting God in Difficult Times
Trusting in God during difficult times is a common theme throughout the Bible. Many stories of individuals facing adversity reveal how placing their trust in God ultimately led to deliverance and blessings. These stories serve as a reminder that no matter how challenging the circumstances may be, God is always faithful to those who trust in Him. Here are 10 Bible verses that highlight the importance of trusting God in difficult times:
1. Psalm 28:7
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.
2. Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
3. Isaiah 41:10
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
4. Jeremiah 17:7-8
But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.
5. Matthew 6:25-27
Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
6. Romans 8:28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
7. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
8. Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
9. Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.
10. James 1:2-4
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Trusting God in difficult times requires faith, patience, and perseverance. The examples provided in these Bible verses encourage us to rely on God’s strength and wisdom, knowing that He will guide us through every trial and tribulation. May these stories inspire us to trust in God’s plan and have faith that He is always by our side, even in the most challenging of times.
Trusting God In All Circumstances Bible Verse
It can be difficult to maintain faith during hard times. It’s certainly tough to trust in the good when every single thing in your life seems to be unnecessarily challenging or just plain awful. But these bad times are when faith is most important. It can be a life raft in a storm. And faith can always be restored if we are willing to seek it out. The Bible is a great place to fill your faith reserves—whether you’re looking for calming verses about patience, need a boost via uplifting Bible verses about love, or desire some comforting verses about worry. There’s a reason they call it the “Good Book”—it’s great for getting us out of our bad spots and into better frames of mind. Still need a few more pick-me-ups? There’s more where all that came from. Check out these 20 Bible verses that serve as a reminder of just how important our faith becomes when the world around us is scary and uncertain.
How to Trust God
Now that you know what it means to trust God, how exactly can you do that in your everyday life?
If you trust someone, you feel comfortable being honest with them about anything. God is much more reliable than even your most trustworthy friend. When things feel difficult, He doesn’t ask you to keep those feelings to yourself.
Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7, New International Version)
You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in Your book. (Psalm 56:8, New Living Translation)
Because God loves you, you can show your trust in Him by talking about all your feelings and circumstances with Him — the good and hard — through prayer. Don’t let your emotions rule your life; bring them to God so He can help you address them. He is not disappointed or frustrated by your struggles, doubts or pain. He cares about you, and you can trust Him with those things.
When you trust, you go to God and His word when life is hard. You also act on obedience (doing what God says in His Word) and trust that He will ultimately take care of the rest. In trust, you do not look for security in other things; you look to God to hold you securely in difficult circumstances. You won’t do this perfectly, but God is kind and patient with you while you learn to trust Him.
“My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” He said to them. “Stay here and keep watch.”
Going a little farther, He fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hour might pass from Him. “Abba, Father,” He said, “everything is possible for You. Take this cup from Me. Yet not what I will, but what You will.” (Mark 14:34-36, NIV)
Jesus Himself felt overwhelmed by what was before Him, and He went straight to His Father.
He cares for your hurts. He pays attention. How comforting it is to know that the God of the universe is also paying attention to you. Knowing that God is for you will strengthen your trust in Him during times of hardship and the unknown.
Here are seven practical ways to trust God in your everyday life:
1. Seek Truth in Scripture
Scripture, or the Bible, is God’s Word. God knows you need somewhere to go when you feel unsure. That place is His Word. It is unchanging and completely trustworthy.
The Bible records ways God has responded in difficult times in the past. It reminds you that He is trustworthy whatever your circumstances. Many people in Scripture even reference other parts of Scripture to encourage themselves and those around them.
The truth of Scripture frees you from the expectations of earning your salvation (John 8:32). It also frees you from the unrealistic scenarios that you run to in worry. If you don’t run to the Word to remind you of truth in difficult times, it is easier for you to be led into lies about your life and who God is.
You need a strong foundation of Scripture to stand on, especially when you feel uncertain. The Bible is God’s unfailing, unchanging Word. You can cling to its truth when life throws you a curveball.
2. Confess Unbelief
Be honest. Allow God to remind you who He is and what He promises, and then be honest with Him. You can tell God how you feel and in what areas of your life you are struggling to trust Him.
First, it is good to acknowledge that His character is good and trustworthy. You can agree with Him that all He says is true. You can also tell Him when it’s difficult for you to believe.
According to Mark 9, a man brought his son to Jesus for healing from being possessed by a demon. He asked Jesus to heal him “if you can.” Jesus asked the man if he did not believe that Jesus could heal, and this was his reply.
Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24, NIV)
He believed, but it was a difficult thing to believe. So He asked for help.
It is one thing to know the truth. But it is sometimes hard to believe it when life takes unexpected turns. You’re human. You’re able to confess to God when your feelings and beliefs are not lining up with His Truth. You can ask Him to help you believe what He says is true.
This helps you accept that God is bigger than you could ever understand. Confession helps you to humble yourself and allows you to grow in trust. He hears your requests and answers them. He wants to help you grow your faith.
3. Share Your Concerns With Your Community
You are not facing these difficult times alone. The Lord is walking with you every step of the way. He also gives you other believers to walk with.
Paul was a follower of Jesus and a leader in the early church. He shared this with a fellow believer as encouragement.
I pray that your partnership with us in the faith may be effective in deepening your understanding of every good thing we share for the sake of Christ. (Philemon 1:6, NIV)
Paul reminded his friend that partnership is important and helps us have a greater understanding of God and His plan.
When you are struggling, share those concerns with another follower of Jesus whom you trust — someone you know is pursuing a relationship with God regularly and who knows God’s Word. You do not have to share struggles with everyone, but find those people who will encourage you and share the truth with you — not just tell you what you want to hear.
Fellow believers can remind you of God’s character through encouragement and accountability. They can pray for and support you. They can remind you of the truth when you’re struggling. Community reminds you that you are never alone, even in hard times.
4. Remember God and Spend Time With Him
God is bigger than your circumstances. Difficult times may feel like they last forever, but they are temporary. God is present amid the bad times as well as the good. He is always faithful.
God wants you to go to Him with your circumstances. He also wants you to come to Him simply to spend time with Him. You should not let your circumstances shape your relationship with God. God can shape your view of your circumstances.
Spend regular time with God. Establishing a consistent time with the Lord when things feel good will help you to continue to go to Him when things feel rough. If you have not established that, it is never too late to start.
Read His Word. Spend time in prayer acknowledging who He is. Meet with other believers and set your eyes on things that are bigger than your circumstances. Serve those around you. These simple practices will help you see God outside of difficult things, which will establish trust in your heart that He will move in your circumstances.
5. Look for Things to Be Grateful For
Difficult circumstances feel all-consuming at times. It is really hard to see past them to other good things going on. But God’s grace is in all things. In your waking up. In a sunny day. In a call from a friend. He is in all of it.
But those good times often get overshadowed by other more complicated things going on. In the face of those difficulties, God shares His will for you and how you should respond to them.
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, NIV)
God calls you to give thanks. He is always working in your life and in the world. In the moments when everything appears to be falling apart, it can be hard to see how the Good Father is at work, but know His mercy is consistent.
Giving thanks fights the lie that everything is horrible. Even in tragic circumstances, there will be light and grace. God is present and is making Himself known. You need only to look. Trust grows as you look for God’s presence in what feels dark and heavy. He never leaves.
6. Walk in the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit lives in anyone who trusts in Jesus. The Holy Spirit is your constant helper, pointing you to Jesus.
When Jesus was telling His followers that He was going to be killed, He knew that they would be worried. They would feel scared about being left alone. So He shared this with them to give them comfort.
But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. (John 14:26, NIV)
The Spirit comforts and reminds you of the truth. The Spirit will also lead you in obedience. He will bring direction to you.
A common struggle in difficult times is feelings of helplessness and worry about an unknown future. The leading of the Spirit can ease struggles by guiding you to acts of obedience. He does not always give you the big picture, but He will show you the next step.
Walking closely with the Spirit will not only give you direction but will remind you that you are not alone. God is not distant. He is with you in difficulty. He is making a way for you.
Go to “How Do I Hear God’s Voice?” to learn more about how to follow the Spirit’s leading.
7. Wait on the Lord
The Holy Spirit will lead you to what you should do. Sometimes what you need to do is wait. Faithfully continue to seek the Lord, but wait on His timing. Wait on Him to act on your behalf. Wait on Him to do what you cannot do yourself.
In the book of Isaiah, God responds to the Israelites who thought that God had turned away from them. He reminds them that He does not sleep or take a break. He always sees them and is always working for their good.
They who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31, English Standard Version)
He will help you wait with endurance. Waiting on the Lord reminds you that you are not in control. Thank goodness! He is bigger than any of your circumstances. He will sustain you and grow your faith in the waiting.
God is never neglecting your life. If He seems to be silent, remember His promise that He is always hearing your prayers and responding.
When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. (Psalm 34:17, ESV)
When Trust Falters
God is trustworthy even when you don’t see your prayers answered or problems solved right away. Life is unpredictable and difficult at times, and that difficulty may persist for longer than you had hoped. It may even bring you to the end of your strength. So, what do you do then?
Wait, trust and remember that God loves you. You can trust Him to sustain you, provide for you and be with you even in the midst of your hardship. Jesus guaranteed His followers that they would face hard times (John 16:33), but He promised that He would always be with them (Matthew 28:20).
God is completely trustworthy, but He does not ask you to trust Him blindly. He wants you to learn to trust Him as you get to know Him. You can get to know God through personal time with Him and through His Word. Spend time exploring aspects of His trustworthiness in verses of Scripture.
In the book of Romans, one of the early followers of Jesus, Paul, writes to believers about the present life. He reminds them that this life will have hardship and that our bodies will fail, but God is still working for our good.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28, NIV)
In times of doubt, remember His promises. Remember who He has always been. Even in doubt and uncertainty, if you keep going to Him, He will continually show Himself to be trustworthy.