Bible Verses to Share When Preaching about Strength in Hard Times

Life's challenges can often feel overwhelming, and as a church leader, you want to provide proper guidance and support for your church members. Through personal loss, financial hardships, or emotional struggles, finding strength to face the hard times can be so difficult. The Bible provides countless verses that offer encouragement, reminding us that we’re never alone, and that God’s strength is always available to us. In these moments, encouraging your church to turn to scripture helps us find comfort and hope, knowing that God walks with us through each and every challenge. Let's explore some key Bible verses about strength during tough times and how they can help your church.

Finding Strength in God’s Word

The Bible can bring support and guidance when we are at our lowest. Whether you need hope or healing, it’s important to remind your church members that the same strength pastors rely on to uplift their congregations is also available to every individual who knows the Lord. Whether you are a pastor, church leader, or church member, God’s promises of strength always apply. For pastors who are preaching on finding strength in God’s word, there is no shortage of scripture to call to mind for encouragement. Here are some of our favorites:

 Isaiah 41:10 offers a comforting reminder: “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.”

Joshua 1:9 encourages us to be courageous: “Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Strength in Times of Weakness

One of the most beautiful truths in scripture is that our weakness is an opportunity for God’s strength to be revealed. The apostle Paul recognized this in his own life, as shown in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

In moments when we feel our weakest, God’s power is most evident. It's in our vulnerability that His strength shines brightest, giving us hope and encouragement. As a pastor, you’ve surely felt your own weakness take the forefront in your church leadership journey, and your church members have likely experienced a spotlight on their own weaknesses as well. You have the unique opportunity to speak truth into the hearts of your weary church members by encouraging them to boast about their weakness, just as Paul did. 

Verses to Lean on in Difficult Times

During life’s most challenging moments, holding onto specific verses can become a lifeline. Even when our own strength gives out, God’s strength can sustain us. Here are some verses you can share with your church to reflect on when they need encouragement:

Psalm 28:7: “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped; therefore my heart exults, and with my song I shall thank Him.”

 Psalm 121:1-2: “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

 Romans 15:5: “May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had.”

Strength to Overcome Loss

Loss is one of life’s most difficult experiences. Whether it's the loss of a loved one, a job, or a relationship, finding strength can feel impossible. Thankfully, the Bible offers comfort and hope in these times, which you can pass along to your church in your next message on finding strength in the valleys.

Psalm 73:26: “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”

2 Corinthians 1:3-4:  “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”

Gratitude for Pastors and Church Leaders

While these verses can be applied to anyone facing hard times, it’s important to recognize the unique role pastors play in strengthening others. Pastors are often the ones church members turn to for spiritual guidance, especially during difficult seasons. You pour out your energy to provide words of comfort, deliver powerful sermons, and offer personal counsel reflected in the strength found in scripture. 

While you don’t want to toot your own horn in a message, you can share pastor appreciation messages with heartfelt notes of gratitude for the other pastors in your church, as well as pastors of other local churches and church leaders who help your ministry run more smoothly.

If you’re not a pastor but a church leader who gets the opportunity to share a message one weekend, consider sharing pastor appreciation scriptures like 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, which says:
"Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work."

Expressing words of gratitude to other church leaders honors their dedication and uplifts them in their own spiritual journey. 

Finding Strength in God’s Word

If your church family is feeling overwhelmed or going through a tough time, you can share that God’s Word is a wellspring of strength, comfort, and hope. Encourage them to take a moment to dive into scripture and discover the verses that speak to their hearts, and remind them that God’s presence is with them through every trial. For pastors and church leaders, continue to draw from the strength of God’s Word as you lead and inspire others. Your faith and resilience provide a beacon of hope for your congregation.

If your congregants are seeking further spiritual encouragement, encourage them to connect with your church community or a trusted pastor. They can offer support, guidance, and additional resources as individuals navigate life’s challenges. Encourage them to let God's Word be their foundation of strength and peace.

“May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.” Numbers 6:24-26 

Stay Connected and Strengthened with Tithely

When your church is going through times of hardship, staying connected with the church community is essential for maintaining faith and strength. Tithely provides the tools your church needs to engage with each other online, simplify communication, and foster generosity. With features like text and email messaging, custom church apps and websites, and digital giving options, Tithely has helped over 37,000 churches worldwide build stronger communities. If you’re looking for ways to support your congregation in hard times, offer words of gratitude to a pastor, or simply stay connected with your church, Tithely can help. Learn more about how Tithely can support your church’s mission today!

‍