26 Bible Verses About Suffering

Suffering is an inevitable part of the human experience, something we all encounter at various points in our lives. Whether it’s physical pain, emotional turmoil, or spiritual struggles, suffering can feel overwhelming and isolating. Yet, in the midst of these challenges, there is a source of comfort and hope that transcends our circumstances.

The Bible, with its timeless wisdom and profound insights, offers guidance and solace for those navigating the turbulent waters of suffering. It doesn’t shy away from the reality of pain but instead provides a framework for understanding and enduring it. Through stories of perseverance, promises of divine presence, and assurances of ultimate redemption, Scripture speaks directly to the heart of our struggles.

In this article, we explore 26 Bible verses about suffering, each offering a unique perspective and a glimmer of hope. These verses remind us that while suffering is a part of life, it is not the end of the story. They encourage us to find strength in our faith, to lean on the support of our community, and to trust in a God who walks with us through every trial.

26 Bible Verses About Suffering

Verses About Purpose in Suffering
Verses About God’s Presence in Suffering
Verses About Endurance Through Suffering
Verses About Hope Beyond Suffering
Verses About Sharing in Christ’s Suffering

Suffering often feels like a senseless burden, but it can serve a greater purpose. Just as Joseph’s trials in Egypt led to the salvation of many, our own hardships can shape us, teach us, and even position us to help others. The Bible offers insights into how suffering can refine our character and deepen our faith, transforming what seems like a setback into a stepping stone for growth and understanding.

Romans 5:3–5: “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”

James 1:2–4: “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.”

1 Peter 1:6–7: “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.”

2 Corinthians 4:17: “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”

Philippians 1:29: “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him.”

In the midst of suffering, it can be easy to feel abandoned. Yet, the Bible assures us that God is always present, even in our darkest moments. The story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace reminds us that we are never alone in our trials. God’s presence provides comfort and strength, offering a sense of peace that surpasses understanding, even when circumstances are dire.

Psalm 34:18: “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Isaiah 43:2: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”

2 Corinthians 1:3–4: “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.”

Psalm 23:4: “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.”

Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

John 16:33: “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.”

Suffering tests our limits, but it also builds resilience. The apostle Paul, who faced numerous hardships, spoke of the perseverance that suffering produces. This endurance is not just about surviving; it’s about growing stronger and more steadfast in our faith. Through trials, we learn to rely on God’s strength rather than our own, emerging more resilient and prepared for future challenges.

Hebrews 12:1–2: “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. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Romans 8:18: “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”

2 Timothy 2:3: “Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.”

1 Peter 4:12–13: “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.”

James 5:11: “As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.”

While suffering can feel overwhelming, the Bible points us to a hope that transcends our current pain. The promise of eternal life and the restoration of all things offer a perspective that lifts our eyes beyond present troubles. This hope is not wishful thinking but a confident expectation rooted in God’s promises, providing assurance that suffering is temporary and will ultimately give way to joy.

Revelation 21:4: “‘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.”

Romans 8:28: “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.”

2 Corinthians 4:16–18: “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.”

1 Peter 5:10: “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.”

Isaiah 40:31: “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.”

Sharing in Christ’s suffering is a profound aspect of the Christian journey. It connects us to the life and mission of Jesus, who endured the cross for the sake of humanity. This shared experience is not about seeking out suffering but recognizing that, in our trials, we are united with Christ in a unique way. It is a reminder that our suffering is not in vain but is part of a larger story of redemption and grace.

Philippians 3:10: “I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death.”

Colossians 1:24: “Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church.”

2 Corinthians 1:5: “For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ.”

1 Peter 2:21: “To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.”

Romans 8:17: “Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.”