40 Bible Verses About Discouragement
Hi friends! We all face discouragement from time to time, don't we? It can be so easy to feel overwhelmed, hopeless and alone when life throws us curveballs. But here's the good news - we have an incredible source of encouragement and strength - God's Word! The Bible is filled with verses that lift our spirits, renew our hope and remind us of God's unfailing love and presence in our lives.
In this post, we've gathered 40 powerful Bible verses about discouragement. Our prayer is that as you read through these verses you'll feel encouraged, uplifted and reminded of the amazing truth that God is always with you, no matter what you're facing. So, let's dive in and soak up some heavenly encouragement!
Bible Verses About Discouragement
1. Psalm 34:18 – God is Close to the Brokenhearted
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
If you're feeling brokenhearted or crushed in spirit today, know that you are not alone. God sees your pain and He promises to be close to you in the midst of it. He is the God who saves and He is able to lift you out of the pit of despair and set your feet on solid ground.
2. Romans 8:28 – God Works All Things Together for 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."
It's easy to feel discouraged when life doesn't go according to our plans or when we face unexpected hardships. But this verse reminds us that God is always at work, even in the midst of our challenges. For those who love Him and are called according to His purpose, He promises to work all things together for our ultimate good and His glory.
3. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 – Renewal and Eternal Perspective
"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."
When discouragement sets in, it's easy to focus on our current circumstances and forget the bigger picture. But these verses remind us that even when life is tough, God is at work renewing us from the inside out. Our troubles, as difficult as they may be, are ultimately temporary when compared to the eternal glory that awaits us in Christ.
4. Zephaniah 3:17 – God Rejoices Over You
"The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing."
Isn't it incredible to think that God, the Mighty Warrior, delights in us? When we're feeling down, we can take comfort in knowing that God isn't disappointed or frustrated with us. Instead, He loves us so much that He rejoices over us with singing! What a beautiful picture of God's tender heart towards His children.
5. Isaiah 40:31 – Strength for the Weary
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
When discouragement leaves us feeling weary and worn out, this verse offers a beautiful promise: those who put their hope in the Lord will have their strength renewed. God gives us the power to soar above our circumstances, to run the race set before us without growing weary and to keep walking even when we feel like we can't take another step.
6. Philippians 4:6-7 – Peace in the Midst of Anxiety
"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."
Anxiety and discouragement often go hand in hand, but these verses remind us that we don't have to be ruled by anxiety. Instead, we can bring every situation to God in prayer, thanking Him for His goodness and trusting Him with our needs. As we do, His peace—a peace that goes beyond our human understanding—will guard our hearts and minds in Christ.
7. Psalm 42:11 – Hope in God
"Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God."
This verse is a beautiful reminder to preach truth to ourselves when we're feeling discouraged. The psalmist acknowledges his own feelings of being downcast and disturbed, but he doesn't stay stuck in those emotions. Instead, he chooses to put his hope in God and to praise Him, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
8. Matthew 11:28-30 – Rest for the Weary
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
When discouragement leaves us feeling weary and burdened, Jesus invites us to come to Him and find rest. As we learn from Jesus and walk with Him, we'll discover a soul-deep rest that can sustain us even in the midst of life's challenges.
9. Galatians 6:9 – Reaping a Harvest
"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."
Discouragement can tempt us to give up, especially when we don't see immediate results from our efforts. But this verse encourages us to keep doing good, even when we're feeling weary. God promises that if we don't give up, we will reap a harvest of blessing in His perfect timing.
10. Joshua 1:9 – Courage and Strength
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
When Joshua was tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land, God knew he would face challenges and discouragement along the way. So, He reminded Joshua to be strong and courageous, not because of his own abilities, but because the Lord would be with him every step of the way. The same is true for us today—we can face life's challenges with courage and strength because we know God is always with us.
11. Psalm 27:13-14 – Confident Hope
"I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord."
In the face of discouragement, it can be hard to hold onto hope. But the psalmist reminds us that we can remain confident in God's goodness, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. As we wait for the Lord and trust in His timing, He will give us the strength and courage we need to keep going.
12. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 – Eternal Comfort and Hope
"May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word."
This verse reminds us that our encouragement and hope come from God Himself. Because of His great love and grace, we have access to eternal encouragement—the kind of encouragement that can sustain us through every trial and challenge. May God encourage your heart and strengthen you in every good thing you do and say!
13. Psalm 31:24 – Taking Heart in the Lord
"Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord."
When discouragement threatens to overwhelm us, this simple yet powerful verse reminds us to put our hope in the Lord. As we trust in Him, He will give us the strength and courage we need to keep going, even when the road ahead seems long and difficult.
14. James 1:2-4 – Joy in Trials
"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."
It might seem counterintuitive to find joy in the midst of trials, but this passage reveals a powerful truth: the challenges we face can actually help us grow in faith and character. As we persevere through difficulties, God is at work making us mature and complete in Him.
15. Hebrews 12:1-2 – Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith..."
When we're feeling discouraged, it's easy to get distracted by our circumstances or bogged down by the weight of our struggles. But these verses remind us to fix our eyes on Jesus, the One who endured the cross for the joy set before Him. As we look to Him, we'll find the strength and inspiration we need to keep running the race of faith.
16. Isaiah 41:10 – God's Strength and Help
"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."
Fear and discouragement often go hand in hand, but this verse reminds us that we don't have to be afraid. God promises to be with us, to strengthen us, to help us and to uphold us with His righteous right hand. No matter what we're facing, we can trust in His presence and power.
17. John 16:33 – Peace in Jesus
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
Jesus never promised that life would be easy, but He did promise that we can find peace in Him. Even in a world filled with trouble and hardship, we can take heart because Jesus has already overcome the world. In Him, we have everything we need to face each day with courage and hope.
18. Psalm 55:22 – Casting Our Cares on the Lord
"Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken."
When discouragement weighs us down, this verse invites us to cast our cares on the Lord. He promises to sustain us and to keep us steady, even when everything around us feels shaky and uncertain. What a comfort it is to know that we can entrust our worries and concerns to a loving, all-powerful God!
19. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 – Comfort in Affliction
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God."
In the midst of affliction and discouragement, God reveals Himself as the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort. Not only does He comfort us in our own troubles, but He equips us to extend that same comfort to others who are hurting. What a privilege it is to be channels of God's comfort and grace!
20. Psalm 37:23-24 – Upheld by God
"The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand."
Life's journey is filled with ups and downs and there may be times when we stumble or feel like we're falling. But this passage offers a beautiful promise: when we delight in the Lord, He will make our steps firm and uphold us with His hand. Even when we falter, we can trust in His steadfast support.
21. Lamentations 3:22-23 – Steadfast Love and Faithfulness
"Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."
Even in the darkest of times, God's love and compassion remain steadfast. This passage reminds us that His mercies are new every morning—a beautiful picture of His unwavering faithfulness. No matter how discouraged we may feel, we can trust in the goodness and love of our unchanging God.
22. Ephesians 3:20-21 – God's Immeasurable Power
"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."
When discouragement makes us feel powerless, these verses remind us of the immeasurable power of our God. He is able to do far more than we could ever ask or imagine and His power is at work within us as believers. As we trust in Him, we'll see His glory displayed in our lives and in the church for generations to come.
23. Habakkuk 3:17-18 – Rejoicing in God
"Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior."
In a world where discouragement often stems from difficult circumstances, this passage offers a powerful perspective. Even when everything around us seems to be falling apart—when the fig tree doesn't bud and the fields produce no food—we can still choose to rejoice in the Lord. Our joy is not dependent on our circumstances, but on the unchanging character of our God.
24. Psalm 138:8 – God's Perfect Purposes
"The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands."
When discouragement makes us question our purpose or direction in life, this verse offers a beautiful reminder: God has a purpose for each of us and He will fulfill it. His love endures forever and He will never abandon the works of His hands. We can trust in His perfect plan, even when the path ahead seems unclear.
25. 2 Timothy 1:7 – Power, Love and Self-Discipline
"For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline."
Discouragement can often make us feel timid or powerless, but this verse reminds us of the Spirit that God has given us. Through His Spirit, we have access to power, love and self-discipline—the very tools we need to overcome fear and live with boldness and purpose.
26. Isaiah 43:18-19 – New Things
"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland."
When discouragement keeps us stuck in the past, God invites us to look forward to the new things He is doing. Even in the wilderness and wasteland of life, He is making a way and bringing refreshment. As we trust in Him, we'll begin to perceive the new things He is unfolding in our lives.
27. Philippians 1:6 – God's Ongoing Work
"...being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
It's easy to get discouraged when we feel like we're not making progress or when we're struggling with sin and weaknesses. But this verse reminds us that God is the One who began a good work in us and He is faithful to carry it on to completion. We can have confidence in His ongoing work in our lives, knowing that He will never leave us unchanged.
28. Psalm 30:5 – Joy Comes in the Morning
"For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning."
In the midst of discouragement, it can feel like the darkness will never end. But this psalm reminds us that weeping may last for a night, but joy comes in the morning. We can hold onto hope, knowing that sorrow is temporary and that God's goodness will ultimately prevail.
29. John 14:27 – Peace That Surpasses Understanding
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
The peace that Jesus offers is unlike anything the world can give. When our hearts are troubled and we're tempted to give in to fear, Jesus reminds us that His peace is available to us. As we lean into His presence and trust in His goodness, we'll experience a peace that surpasses all understanding.
30. Psalm 23:4 – Comfort in the Valley
"Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."
Life's journey often takes us through dark valleys—seasons of discouragement, pain or uncertainty. But this beloved psalm reminds us that even in the darkest of valleys, we have nothing to fear because God is with us. His presence and His guidance bring comfort and strength, no matter what we're facing.
31. Deuteronomy 31:8 – God Goes Before You
"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."
When the future seems uncertain and we're not sure what lies ahead, this verse offers a powerful promise: God Himself goes before us. He is not only with us, but He is also going ahead of us, preparing the way and working all things together for our good. With God leading the way, we have no reason to be afraid or discouraged.
32. Romans 15:13 – Overflow of Hope
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
Discouragement can rob us of joy, peace and hope, but this verse reminds us that God is the source of all three. As we trust in Him, He promises to fill us with joy and peace, causing us to overflow with hope by the power of His Spirit. What a beautiful picture of the abundant life that is available to us in Christ!
33. 1 Chronicles 28:20 – Strength and Courage
"David also said to Solomon his son, 'Be strong and courageous and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the Lord is finished.'"
Just as David encouraged his son Solomon, we too can take heart in the strength and courage that God provides. When the work ahead seems daunting or discouragement sets in, we can remember that the Lord is with us. He will not fail us or forsake us until the work He has called us to is complete.
34. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 – Strength in Weakness
"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. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."
In a world that often equates strength with self-sufficiency, this passage offers a countercultural perspective. When we are weak, discouraged or facing hardships, God's grace is sufficient for us. In fact, it is in our weakness that His power is made perfect. As we delight in our dependence on Him, we'll find a strength that goes beyond our own abilities.
35. Isaiah 26:3-4 – Perfect Peace
"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal."
Discouragement can often steal our peace, but this verse offers a promise of perfect peace for those who trust in the Lord. When our minds are steadfast, fixed on God and His goodness, we can experience a peace that goes beyond our circumstances. As we trust in Him, we'll find that He is our eternal Rock—a firm foundation that cannot be shaken.
36. Philippians 3:13-14 – Pressing On
"Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."
Discouragement can often keep us focused on past failures or mistakes, but this passage encourages us to press on. Rather than dwelling on what lies behind, we can move forward toward the goal God has set before us. As we fix our eyes on the heavenward call of Christ, we'll find fresh motivation and purpose for the journey ahead.
37. Hebrews 10:23 – Holding Fast to Hope
"Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful."
In the face of discouragement, it can be tempting to let go of hope. But this verse reminds us to hold fast to the hope we have in Christ, knowing that the One who promised is faithful. Even when our circumstances are difficult or our feelings are fickle, we can cling to the unchanging faithfulness of our God.
38. Psalm 121:1-2 – Help from the Lord
"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."
When discouragement leaves us feeling helpless or alone, this psalm reminds us of where our help comes from. As we lift our eyes to the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth, we can trust that He is able to provide the help and strength we need. No matter how big our challenges may seem, our God is bigger still.
39. 1 Peter 1:6-7 – Refined by Trials
"In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed."
Discouragement often comes in the form of trials and suffering, but this passage offers a powerful perspective. The trials we face are not meaningless; rather, they are opportunities for our faith to be refined and proven genuine. As we endure hardships with hope, our faith becomes a source of praise, glory and honor to God.
40. Revelation 21:4 – No More Sorrow
"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."
In the midst of discouragement, it can be easy to lose sight of the hope we have in eternity. But this verse from Revelation reminds us of the glorious future that awaits us in God's presence. One day, every tear will be wiped away and there will be no more sorrow, pain or death. As we cling to this hope, we can find comfort and strength for the challenges we face today.
We hope that these 40 Bible verses about discouragement have been a source of encouragement, comfort and hope for you today. No matter what challenges you're facing or how deep your discouragement may feel, know that God is with you and His Word is alive and active, able to speak truth and life into your situation.
As you meditate on these verses and trust in God's faithfulness, may you experience His peace, joy and strength in new and powerful ways. Remember that you are never alone and that the God of all hope is able to fill you with joy and peace as you trust in Him.
Keep holding fast to the promises of God, knowing that He is able to do immeasurably more than all you could ask or imagine.
May you be encouraged, uplifted and filled with fresh hope as you walk with God today!
FAQs
What should I do when I feel discouraged?
When you feel discouraged, turn to God's Word for comfort, strength and perspective. Read verses that remind you of God's love, faithfulness and power and meditate on His promises. Also, don't hesitate to reach out to trusted Christian friends or mentors who can pray with you and offer encouragement.
How can I find joy in the midst of trials?
Finding joy in the midst of trials is possible when we trust in God's goodness and sovereignty. Remember that trials are often opportunities for our faith to be strengthened and refined. As you lean into God's presence and choose to give thanks in all circumstances, you'll find joy and peace that go beyond your current situation.
What should I do when I feel like giving up?
When you feel like giving up, remember that God's strength is made perfect in your weakness. Turn to Him in prayer, asking for the courage and perseverance you need to keep going. Surround yourself with believers who can encourage you and remind you of God's faithfulness. And keep holding onto the hope you have in Christ, knowing that He will never leave you or forsake you.
How can I experience God's peace when I'm feeling anxious or discouraged?
To experience God's peace, focus on His character and promises rather than your circumstances. Bring your anxieties and concerns to Him in prayer, trusting that He cares for you and is in control. As you meditate on God's Word and choose to trust in His goodness, you'll find a peace that surpasses all understanding.
What hope do I have when discouragement feels overwhelming?
When discouragement feels overwhelming, remember the hope you have in Christ. He has overcome the world and in Him, you have the promise of eternal life. No matter how dark your circumstances may seem, know that God is working all things together for your good and His glory. Keep fixing your eyes on Jesus, the source of all hope and trust in His unfailing love and power.
