Verse collection
Encouraging Bible Verses
Encouragement in Scripture rarely means “cheer up” — it more often means “you are not facing this alone,” which is a different and sturdier kind of comfort. Here are the verses people return to most.
For anxiety and worry
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Philippians 4:6-7
Notice the instruction isn't “stop worrying,” it's “bring it somewhere.”
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
1 Peter 5:7
Short, and the reason given — “because he cares” — is the point, not an afterthought.
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.”
Matthew 6:34
Jesus's practical logic: today already has enough in it.
For grief and loss
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Psalm 34:18
Proximity, not distance, is the promise here.
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.”
Revelation 21:4
Often read at funerals for its forward-looking hope rather than present-tense comfort.
For uncertainty
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
Proverbs 3:5-6
A verse about decisions made without full information — which is most decisions.
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you.”
Jeremiah 29:11
Written to Israelites in exile, which is worth knowing — this wasn't a promise of an easy life, but of not being abandoned in a hard one.
How to use these
Read one, sit with it for a minute before moving to the next. These aren't meant to be consumed as a list — pick the one that actually matches what you're carrying today.
See also: Bible verse of the day and Bible verses about strength.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most encouraging Bible verses?
Philippians 4:6–7, Psalm 34:18, Proverbs 3:5–6, Jeremiah 29:11, and 1 Peter 5:7 are the five most read encouraging verses — covering anxiety, grief, and uncertainty.
What Bible verse helps with anxiety?
Philippians 4:6–7 is the most cited: the instruction isn't “stop worrying,” it's “bring it somewhere.” 1 Peter 5:7 and Matthew 6:34 are short companions to it.
What is a good Bible verse to encourage someone?
Psalm 34:18 (“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted”) works for grief, Joshua 1:9 for fear, and Romans 15:13 for someone who needs hope. Pick the one that matches what they are actually carrying rather than a general verse.
Where in the Bible does it talk about not worrying?
Matthew 6:25–34 is the longest passage, ending with “do not worry about tomorrow.” Philippians 4:6–7 and 1 Peter 5:7 give the same instruction in shorter form.
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