In good times and bad times alike, the Bible is a constant resting place for our weary hearts. It reminds us of God’s promises and refreshes our spirits when hope feels hard to find. Especially when facing a state of widespread panic, immersing ourselves in Scripture is one of the best disciplines we can practice. Wading into God’s word, we find ourselves connected not only with our Father in Heaven, but with all our brothers and sisters around the globe who are clinging to the same truths. 

Here are a few Bible verses for comfort and hope:

O my people, trust in him at all times. Pour out your heart to him, for God is our refuge.

Psalm 62:8, NLT

Isn’t it comforting to know that we have a God who welcomes the outpouring of our hearts? A God who cares enough to hear every anxious thought that stirs within our minds? He is a sanctuary for his people. We can find solace in the safety of his presence. If you are desperate for comfort and hope, tuck these words into your heart and ask God for them to take root. 

When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior . . .

Isaiah 43:2–3, NLT

What’s truly beautiful about these verses isn’t that God prevents the elements from encountering us, but that he walks committedly through them with us. When you see the threat of illness looming, it is comforting to know that the Great Physician himself promises nearness. He assures us that when we walk in step with him, nothing can overwhelm us. Friends, he is faithful to accompany us through every turbulent moment life could ever throw at us—including the unprecedented one we are living in right now!

Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.

Romans 12:12, NLT

We shouldn’t just take these words from Romans as a suggestion—they are directions for divine soul care. If you’re wondering what God would say to us in this current moment, look no further than his word. In the dark, uncertain moments of life, here’s what we’re told to do: rejoice, be patient, and pray. That might sound impossible right now, but be encouraged: we can choose to live this way today. Comfort and renewed hope don’t have to be far off, out of reach. Allow your anxious mind to trust in God, and you will experience his peace. 

When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.

Psalm 94:19, NLT

Often the terrain of our minds is more overwhelming than what we’re facing in “the real world.” So how do we rid ourselves of unwelcome thoughts? Our hope is found in the Lord. He comforts and lifts our spirits if we will run to him with our doubts, worries, and fears. If hope and cheer seem painfully unattainable, take heart: Scripture tells us that in his presence, they’re here for the taking. Talk to him today and confess aloud the thoughts you don’t even want to admit to. His comfort is a mere moment away and will envelop you with delight.  

But I am trusting you, O Lord, saying “You are my God!” My future is in your hands.

Psalm 31:14-15a, NLT

The most comforting promise we can cling to right now is that God is holding our future in his steady hands. He knows each day of our lives. Will we trust him with them? Think back on a previous, fear-free season of your life, when your trust in the Lord was absolute. The reality of God’s sovereignty has not changed, despite this global pandemic. 

Now each of us must decide: will we live in fear, or in the confident hope that our Father in Heaven is in control? Run to his throne room today and speak these words to him: “I am trusting you!” He will be waiting for you there.