A few years ago, while struggling to retain my sobriety and overcome depression, I joined a Bible study at a nearby Presbyterian church. The experience proved to be a great blessing for me. The support I received there and the insights I gained were key to my recovery.
Here are ten Bible verses that never fail to lift my spirits and remind me of God’s love. I hope they do the same for you.
1. 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 (James 1:2-4). This verse reminds me to keep persevering rather than consider trials joy. (I’m not mature enough to consider the trials joy yet! However, God has definitely put me in positions where I have needed the perseverance.)
2. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28). He actually turns my bad mistakes into something good for me, and for others also. Example: God led Guideposts to my story and I hope it inspires others–another way of showing how powerful he is.
3. He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds (Psalm 147:3). This brings me comfort, always.
4. The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit (Psalm 34:18). This is for when I am in the most pain–it is then that I’m reminded that God is there with me and he can heal the broken.
5. Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting (Psalm 139:23-24). I pray this to God when I find it hard to figure out my thoughts.
6. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 8:38-39). One of my favorites for when I’m feeling unloved. Powerful stuff!
7. Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight (Psalm 119:35). This reminds me of where real happiness comes from.
8. Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law (Psalm 119:18). This is a great one for when I do my Bible studies–I know God is there to help me understand his word.
9. For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end (Jeremiah 29:11). No matter what, I always want to look up and not out. To know that God has a plan for me. And for you, too!
10. He must increase, but I must decrease (John 3:30). This turns me toward God when I’m focusing too much on myself.
Read Denise Allen’s inspiring story of recovery and renewal!
