Bible verses about strength when life feels hard

What does “I can do all things” mean when life is hard?

¹¹I speak not as it were for want. For I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, to be content therewith.

Philippians 4:11Theosis · English Bible[5]

¹³I can do all these things in him who strengtheneth me.

Philippians 4:13Theosis · English Bible[5]

¹⁴Nevertheless you have done well in communicating to my tribulation.

Philippians 4:14Theosis · English Bible[5]

Paul has known both having enough and going hungry. When he speaks of strength in Christ, those changing circumstances are what he has in mind. Chrysostom explains that Paul learned to live faithfully through them and gave Christ the credit for his strength. That takes time and practice. If you are finding it hard to trust, begin by bringing your present need to Christ. Paul also thanks the Philippians for sharing his hardship. Depending on Christ leaves room to receive help from other people. [1]

Can God help me while I still feel weak?

⁹And he said to me: My grace is sufficient for thee; for power is made perfect in infirmity. Gladly therefore will I glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may dwell in me.

2 Corinthians 12:9Theosis · English Bible[5]

¹⁰For which cause I please myself in my infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ. For when I am weak, then am I powerful.

2 Corinthians 12:10Theosis · English Bible[5]

Paul asked for his trouble to be taken away. The answer he received was that Christ’s grace was enough to sustain him. Chrysostom understands this passage as speaking about the opposition and persecution Paul faced in his ministry. The difficulties continued, and Christ continued to strengthen him within them. You can bring your own weakness into prayer without pretending it has already gone. This passage does not explain the cause of every illness or tell us when a particular hardship will end. [2]

What can I pray when I am afraid?

Psalm 91 gives you words to turn toward God when fear is hard to put aside. Athanasius recommends praying this psalm to strengthen hope in God and encourage others in worship. A simple way to begin is to read it slowly and make its words your prayer. You do not need to invent the right words before you start. Athanasius calls it Psalm 90 because he follows the Greek numbering. The link below opens the same psalm under the number 91. [3]

What hope is there when suffering continues?

²⁸And we know that to them that love God, all things work together unto good, to such as, according to his purpose, are called to be saints.

Romans 8:28Theosis · English Bible[5]

²⁹For whom he foreknew, he also predestinated to be made conformable to the image of his Son; that he might be the firstborn amongst many brethren.

Romans 8:29Theosis · English Bible[5]

Romans 8:28 speaks to people who love God and are still facing danger and pain. Chrysostom reads it as encouragement for them: even painful circumstances can be taken up into God’s good purpose. The next verse names that purpose as becoming like his Son. This gives hope while the outcome is still unclear. You can ask God to help you remain close to Christ through what you are facing, without having to pretend that the pain is good or that relief has already come. [4]