Suffering is one of the themes Scripture returns to again and again. Scripture never tells the suffering to pretend they are fine. It sits with them in the dust — and refuses to look away from a God who suffers too.
People reach for these passages when they're looking up why is this happening, pain, hurting, everything is falling apart, or some version of "what does the Bible say about suffering?"
Among the most-cited passages on this theme are Romans 8:18, 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, 1 Peter 5:10, James 1:2-4, and others below. Romans 8:18 is the passage many readers return to first.
The page also offers a written prayer that names suffering plainly and asks God for what's needed in this moment. It is not a magic formula — it is a small, faithful starting point.
A short reflection question sits at the bottom of the page: What has been the hardest part of this season, and have you told God about it plainly? Sit with it for a minute, or carry it into a journal.
If this isn't quite the right doorway, try a closely related theme: Grief, Hope, Perseverance.
Verses
Romans 8:18
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
1 Peter 5:10
But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
James 1:2-4
My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
Psalms 34:18
The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.
John 16:33
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
Reflection
What has been the hardest part of this season, and have you told God about it plainly?
Related topics
Want to search by feeling instead? Type what's on your heart on the home page.