40 Days of Fasting with Purpose: Creative Ideas for Deeper Prayer & Spiritual Growth

Throughout biblical history, we see 40 days of testing, waiting, and drawing closer to God. Ash Wednesday and the 40 Days of Lent typically mark a spiritual journey for Christians, though it’s often associated with Catholic tradition. It’s a time of prayer, service, sacrifice, and self-examination. Look beyond the face of religion and into the heart …and see if God is calling you for the next 40 days. Does He want your attention and your heart focused on Him?

40 Days of Fasting with Purpose: Creative Ideas for Deeper Prayer & Spiritual Growth

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40-day spiritual journeys are well-known in the Bible. In Genesis 7, Noah spent 40 days and nights on a boat while God destroyed everything he had created. In Exodus 34, Moses was on the mountain with God 40 days without eating bread or drinking water, while God wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant—the Ten Commandments. In Exodus 16:35, the Israelites ate manna for 40 days until they arrived in the promised land. They then suffered 40 years in the wilderness for disobeying God. In Deut 2:7, we’re reminded, “The LORD your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He has watched over your journey through this vast wilderness. These forty years the LORD your God has been with you, and you have not lacked anything. “

Jesus was called by God and immediately a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” At once the Spirit sent him out into the wilderness, and he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him. Mark 1:11-13 NIV

Below are some ideas about spending 40 days with God.

Remember to choose a DAILY sacrifice or event for Lent. Giving up surfing, for example, is not something that happens daily. Look for something you do daily! -Christine Abraham

40 Days of Lent

Financial Fast- One year during 40 days of Lent, my husband and I decided to give up (fast from) all luxury expenses. Since we use budgeting software, we were able to review 12 months of luxury expenses (pizza, movies, coffee drinks, dining out, etc.) and estimate the daily cost. We multiplied the cost by 40 days, then gave up these luxuries, promising to God that we would give the money saved to charity. In the final two weeks, my husband lost his job, and we were tempted to keep the money. By faith, we donated the money and entrusted our finances to God. By blessing others, we were blessed by God. We learned how to live on less and continued to give up luxuries until he found new employment. It was truly amazing! You can learn more about this in the book Fasting for Financial Breakthrough by Elmer Towns. Learn More: https://www.biblecafe.org/financial-fast/

Food- Another year, we practiced 40 days of Lent by traditional fasting. We gave up certain foods or ate at specific times of day. The concept is refraining from food for a spiritual purpose. One word of caution when fasting: watch your blood sugar! I ended up hospitalized after 40 days of liquids until 5 pm and light meals in the evening. It turns out I had hypoglycemia, and the artificial sweeteners in those high-calorie coffee drinks made me incredibly sick! Please know your threshold and keep your health. You can learn more about this in the popular book Fasting: Opening the Door to a More Deeper, More Intimate, More Powerful Relationship with God by Jentezen Franklin. Recently, I fasted 40 days from coffee (my daily addiction) and grew in wisdom as I prayed. It was during a 40-day coffee fast that our Bible Cafe University (BCU) membership site was crafted!

Events- My children are making decisions about their own level of participation. They might fast from television, texting, Facebook, or specific foods such as sweets, pizza, or fast food. I’ve been fasting from technology each week, filling my day with scripture, fellowship, and prayer. Unplug from Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and other social sites… and plug in to Jesus. Finish a Bible study you never completed. Devote some time to Him…and be richly blessed.

Digital Detox– Unplug from the addiction of social media and technology. Fill the time with reading your Bible, worship music, journaling, or reading a faith-based book. Learn more here: https://www.biblecafe.org/social-media-fasting/

40 Days of Prayer

Devotionals– Now is a good time to start reading a devotional and praying each day. One year, I read ten devotionals a day, for 40 days. Read one of the most popular devotionals, or discover a new author and book. There are also devotionals specific to Lent or 40-day fasting.

Psalms– Pick up your bible during the 40 days of Lent, and pray through the Psalms each day, or read a commentary book about Psalms. As you read the verses, focus your mind on how you can apply the verses to your life today. Select a few favorites and memorize them.

Prayer Walk: Each day when you exercise (or just driving to work or carpooling), go on a “prayer walk.” Notice your surroundings and pray for those people around you. Pray for your neighbors as you walk past their homes, pray for the person parked at the stoplight beside you, pray for those people in your path. Read the book PrayerWalk: Becoming a Woman of Prayer, Power, and Strength by Janet Holm McHenry.

Body Prayer– During the next 40 days of Lent, pray through your body. Start at your feet and toes and pray something similar to this: “Lord, examine my toes and feet. Search for anything that is not pleasing to you, find anything that is toxic and does not honor you. Wash over my feet and toes with the blood of Jesus and allow my feet and toes to honor Him.” Repeat for each body part, from toes to head, as you lie in bed and prepare to fall asleep.

Read– Turn off the television and read your Bible or Christian books for 40 days.

Memorize Scripture– Get some index cards and write out scripture verses to memorize. I use a spiral notebook, small enough to fit in my handbag so that I can carry it with me. There are also apps for your smartphone or computer that help memorize scripture. Could you make sure the verse is visible so you can read it often during the week?

Pray for a Child– If you are a parent or grandparent, pray for your children each day for the next 40 days. Pray for your nieces and nephews. If you sponsor a child through Compassion International, Gospel of Asia, or World Vision, then spend the next 40 days praying for your child. Pray for children who are waiting to be adopted. For the next 40 days, find children you can pray for.

Pray for a Relationship- Pray for your spouse, friend, boyfriend, or a relationship. Focus each day on the same person and spend 40 days praying for them.

Pray for Your Coworkers: Print a copy of the company directory or write down a few names on paper, and pray for these people over the next 40 days. Pray for them to know Jesus, for peace and hope in their lives, and for God to reveal Himself to them. Pray with expectation for goodness, peace, joy, and hope in their lives.

Pray the Names of God: In the Experiencing God workbook, there is a long list of God’s names in Scripture. Print this list and pray daily on His name and character. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal Him through His name. You can also find books on the names of God.

40 Days of Praise

Worship Music- Change the radio station in your car or on your computer to Christian music and listen exclusively for the next 40 days of Lent. Scan YouTube for Christian songs and save your favorites in your profile. Listen to www.KLOVE.com on your computer or in the car. When I’m carpooling, my kids will say, “Just to warn you, my Mom likes to listen to this stuff!” Often their friends reply, “Don’t worry, my Mom does it too!” We also play Christian music on our television when we’re at home… You can find it on satellite or cable by searching through the channels. If you like alternative and rock, listen to www.AIR1.com

Journal– Get a fresh notebook and journal your gratitude to God. Read the popular book One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp and decide to start noticing the gifts God has bestowed upon you. This is especially wise if you are facing unemployment, financial worries, health problems, or relationship troubles. Count your blessings for the next 40 days. Create a Spiritual Journal by listing prayer requests and Bible study notes during the next 40 days.

Beauty Treatments– When is the last time you used your body as praise to God? Created in His image…when you look in the mirror, do you see the child He loves or something less beautiful in your own eyes? Explore opportunities to honor your body and treat yourself as a son or daughter of the King. What would you eat as His child? How would you dress? What would you do to maintain the body He created for you? Put this thought in your heart, pray over it, and see whether you need “40 days of beauty treatments” in the name of the Lord. Start praying Psalm 139 each day and commit to being fearfully and wonderfully made. Exercise, eat right, and take care of the body God designed for you.

40 Days of Giving

Giving Letters – In our modern day, it’s rare to receive a letter, let alone a Christmas letter. Most people use the speed of text messages, email, and Facebook posts. Why not break tradition and mail a handwritten letter, once a day, for 40 days? Mail to a prison ministry, a senior home, the teachers at your child’s school, or a network of friends.

Giving Joy– Read a book about Joy, and find ways to share the love of Christ with others. Please be sure to look for simple ways to make a difference.

Cooking– My mother-in-law calls me her “Meals on Wheels” because I bring her homemade food. If you are making a family meal, double the batch of spaghetti, soup, stew, or lasagna. Package this with a loaf of bread and deliver it to your neighbors, family member, or coworker. Use the element of surprise to make their day special by bringing an unexpected meal. Make a batch of cookies, brownies, or cupcakes, and each day during the week, find someone you can share them with.

Giving Your Time: Spend 40 days giving your time and attention to your friend, spouse, children, or other family members. Pull yourself away from Facebook and social media, from the distractions of the television or internet…and center your time on someone else. Make a list of numbers 1-40, and for each day, write the name of someone you are going to spend time with. You can make a phone call, send an email, mail a card, or visit in person. Take the focus off yourself and your needs and give time to someone else.

These are just a few ideas to start you thinking about your own 40-day spiritual journey. The decision to spend 40 days focused on God is yours alone. Pray over this and see if you are led to do something or possibly wait for another time. Know that during your 40 days with God, you will attract the attention of the enemy and he will throw flaming arrows your way. Stand firm with the shield of faith and keep your eyes and heart on God.

9 Fasts From the Holy Bible

Loose the bonds of wickedness- Disciples fast to break addiction and sin
Undo heavy burdens- Ezra fast to solve problems
Let the oppressed go free- Samuel fast for evangelism and revival
Break every yoke- Elijah fasted to break discouragement and burnout
Share your bread with the hungry- Widows fast to supply physical necessities to the poor
Your light shall break forth- Paul fasted for insight and decision-making
Healing shall spring forth- Daniel fast for health and healing
Righteousness shall go before you- John the Baptist fasted for influence and testimony
Glory of God shall be your rear guard- Esther fasted for spiritual warfare and protection from the evil one

(source: Dr. Elmer Towns)

Originally posted February 7, 2016, and reposted in the Christian Post.

40 Day Digital Detox: Why Social Media Fasting Is the New Self-Care

Are you online because you’re lonely, bored, emotional, or seeking approval from others? Do you find yourself checking your social media updates several times a day? Are these apps installed for easy access on your phone, tablet, and computer? Perhaps it’s time for a digital detox! Time that can be spent cultivating intimacy with Jesus instead.

40 Day Digital Detox: Why Social Media Fasting Is the New Self-Care

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We’re made to fill our empty spaces with Jesus. Not with social media. Not influencers.

Have you considered the term “influencer ” and what it means? Perhaps it is better to be influenced by Jesus Christ. Not celebrities, podcasters, and loud online voices. You choose.

You can stay off social media until 3:00 PM in your time zone.

You’ll be staying off all social media- Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and Hangouts. Just to let you know, the only exception is if you’ve committed to meet in a group discussion at a scheduled time. You can join your group at the scheduled date and time, then, after the hour ends, you can return to social media.

During your social media fast, I encourage you to journal your thoughts. Begin your journal by recording how you feel about being away from social media. Create a gratitude journal, prayer journal, or “letters to God” journal. Each time you CRAVE connection and approval online, put those thoughts into your journal.

Social media is a distraction from the Fruit of the Spirit. It consumes our time and leads us into a false sense of fulfillment. We hear women say they’re too busy for daily Bible study, yet we see these same friends online chatting throughout the day. We hear women say they don’t have time to read an inspirational book, yet we see them with abundant comments on Instagram each day.

Friends, we’re a society consumed by something with a false promise!

Let’s reconnect our day with Jesus and build intimacy where it matters most.

Let’s avoid the temptations of social likes, shares, and comments.

Let’s drop the approval addiction and reclaim our identity as Daughters of the King.

HOW TO FAST FROM SOCIAL MEDIA

Set an alarm on your phone for 3:00 PM in your time zone. That’s your cue that intermittent fasting is up, and you can log in to see what you missed. For me, this is the same time I drink my afternoon coffee, so I’ll sit with my drink and imagine I’m at a cafe with friends when I get back online.
Get a journal to record your experience.
During your emptiness, start recording prayers to Jesus, look up Bible verses, and focus on HIM.
When you get back online after 3 PM, resist the urge to obsess over social media. Get in, get out!

In addition to this corporate fasting, where we do something as a community, I \’d like also to encourage you to private fasting as well. Don’t share what you’re doing. Pray on it, and the Lord will direct your path.

Originally posted March 4, 2019.

Bible Cafe Orange Chocolate Latte

Recipe for a delicious Orange Chocolate Latte…your taste buds will love this! Here’s how to make this at home and not pay the coffee shop price.

Bible Cafe Orange Chocolate Latte

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When I drank my very first orange chocolate latte, I was sitting in a beach cafe with my daughter. Home from Spring Break at college, she invited me to taste her favorite drink. While the local coffee shop’s drink was delicious, I couldn’t afford it, so I crafted my own Orange-Chocolate Latte. Recipe below.

Christine’s Orange-Chocolate Latte is absolutely fabulous! Made with sugar-free syrups, almond milk (or milk of your choice) and lots of love.

What I like most about the orange-chocolate latte is the blend of sweet chocolate with citrus. Years ago, before we had children, my husband and I visited a Paris Cafe. It amazed us how the espresso in this country is different from the one we drink in America. Absolutely fabulous! With a twist of citrus, the espresso has an incredible taste to remember.

Back to the present, my daughter is coming home from college for a summer break. We agreed to recreate this latte at home. Because I have food allergies, I created something that works for my inflammation (dairy-free) and weight goals (no sugar).

But my friends, create what works best for you. Modify the recipe with whole milk 2% milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Because the syrups are so delicious, the milk is not the dominant flavor in this drink, which makes it a perfect drink.

If you’re on a keto plan, add some whipped cream to the top. If you’re on Weight Watchers like me, add sugar-free Cool Whip on top. Don’t forget the orange peel. It really makes the whole thing come together. Make this at home for your next Bible Cafe Study!

Christine’s Orange Chocolate Latte

Unsweetened Almond Milk (frothed)

2 pumps Torani Sugar Free Chocolate Syrup

1 pump Torani Sugar Free Orange Syrup

Double espresso pod (Nespresso)

A bit of orange peel on top

As you can see, this is a very simple recipe. When I made my Orange-Chocolate Latte, I found the syrups at Amazon. You’ll want the Torani Pump for the bottles. For my drinks, I use Nespresso Double Espresso Pods. Any pod or fresh espresso will also work.

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What Does The Bible Say About Discernment

Bible Verses About Healing are helpful. When sickness enters, we look at the Bible to find verses about healing. Pray for your friends who are healing. Remember what the Bible says about healing from sickness, demons, and afflictions.

What Does The Bible Say About Discernment

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Join me in a Bible Cafe™ study group, and you’ll find some interesting conversations. Today we discussed discernment in the Gideon Bible Study. As I listened to one of the participants share her life story, I thought more about her words. And so, we pulled out Bible dictionaries and researched the meaning of discernment in the Bible. It seemed like a good time to practice what we learned. In Bible study, this is called “application” as we seek to apply the Scriptures to our life.

After agreeing on the meaning of discernment in the Bible, I asked, “When do you plan on writing books?” Because she has a long history of working in the education system, it seems likely she has a heart for children. Her expression on the other side of the Zoom screen was priceless! This has been on her mind since she retired five years ago.

We continued our conversation about her hesitancy to publish books. Like many people, she wondered if she was ‘called” to write, or if this was her own will and desire. We talked about this with our small group and saw how Gideon struggled with discernment too. In the well-known Bible story, Gideon lays out the fleece and asks God for a sign. He is unable to discern God’s will because of his novice spirituality. He was not struggling with unbelief. Discernment is the opportunity to seek God for confirmation.

Then Gideon said to God, “If you are truly going to use me to rescue Israel as you promised, prove it to me in this way. I will put a wool fleece on the threshing floor tonight. If the fleece is wet with dew in the morning but the ground is dry, then I will know that you are going to help me rescue Israel as you promised.” And that is just what happened. When Gideon got up early the next morning, he squeezed the fleece and wrung out a whole bowlful of water. (Judges 6:36-38 NLT)

As my friend in Bible study shared her testimony, I asked her another question: “Do you want to take your testimony to publication (writing or blogging) or the grave? That’s not hard to answer. She knows her Bible and she knows Jesus. Without hesitation, she quoted the Scriptures about giving testimony.

Do you want to take your testimony to publication or the grave?

As a group, we examined our hearts and answered this same question. Once we realize we are living for today- not the grave- our hesitancies evaporate. We move forward, share our stories, and give glory to God. Our love for Jesus inspires us to give a testimony.

©Bible Copyrights

Christian Standard Bible (CSB) The Christian Standard Bible. Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible®, and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers, all rights reserved.

New Living Translation (NLT) Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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On-Demand Bible Studies: Perfect for Busy Lives

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for spiritual growth can feel challenging. Between work, family, travel, and daily responsibilities, consistent Bible study often takes a back seat. That’s where On-Demand Bible Studies at Bible Cafe™ University come in—designed specifically for busy people like you who want to stay connected to God’s Word from wherever it’s most convenient.

On-Demand Bible Studies: Perfect for Busy Lives

Flexible Learning on Your Schedule

Access Bible studies today and watch experienced Bible Cafe™ Coaches guide you through insightful lessons—from your phone, tablet, or computer. On-demand access means you can stream videos anytime, making it ideal for those seeking a consistent Bible study experience without rigid schedules.

Whether you’ve missed a popular study or want to revisit one you loved, our on-demand library has you covered. Replay coaching videos, dive deeper into discussion questions, and grow at your own pace.

Available Worldwide, Anytime, Anywhere

Our On-Demand Bible Studies are accessible internationally and across all time zones. No matter where you are, you can join in spiritual growth with resources carefully prepared by our dedicated coaches.

Download printable worksheets for personal reflection, home study, or even church groups. And yes—we think “cafe studies” are super awesome too! Grab your favorite spot, whether it’s your cozy kitchen or a quiet corner, and make it your personal Bible cafe.

Trustworthy, Multi-Denominational Content

At Bible Cafe™ University, we offer a large selection of trustworthy Bible study content from a variety of authors, publishers, and denominations. We’re not limited to one perspective—our studies draw from diverse voices to help you learn and grow richly in faith.

Discover the Rich Diversity of Bible Studies at Bible Cafe™ University

At Bible Cafe™ University, we believe that spiritual growth thrives when we encounter God’s Word from multiple angles. That’s why we proudly offer **a large selection of trustworthy Bible study content** sourced from a wide variety of authors, publishers, and denominations. We’re intentionally not limited to a single perspective—our on-demand library draws from diverse voices across the Christian faith to help you learn, reflect, and grow richly in your walk with Christ.

The Bible is a profound, multifaceted book inspired by the Holy Spirit and written across centuries by different authors in varied contexts. Similarly, today’s Bible teachers bring unique insights shaped by their traditions, experiences, and scholarly focus. By exploring studies from multiple denominations—such as evangelical, Protestant, charismatic, conservative, and more—you gain a fuller understanding of Scripture.

The Bible Cafe approach encourages:

Broader Perspectives: See how different traditions interpret key passages, enriching your own understanding without compromising core biblical truths.

Deeper Discernment: Comparing teachings helps you test everything against Scripture (as in Acts 17:11), strengthening your faith foundation.

Inclusive Growth: Whether you’re from a Baptist, Methodist, Lutheran, non-denominational, Pentecostal, or another background, you’ll find studies that resonate while challenging you to expand your horizons.

We carefully curate content from respected authors and publishers known for their faithfulness to the Bible. You’ll find studies by beloved teachers like Beth Moore, Priscilla Shirer, Melissa Spoelstra, and many others—spanning devotional series, in-depth book studies, topical explorations, and verse-by-verse teachings.

Every study in our on-demand library is selected for its biblical accuracy, practical application, and ability to foster genuine spiritual transformation. Our experienced Bible Cafe™ Coaches guide many of these courses, providing thoughtful video teachings, discussion prompts, and downloadable worksheets to support your journey—whether studying solo, with a small group, or in a church setting.

This multi-denominational variety ensures there’s something for everyone:

Beginners seeking foundational truths
Seasoned believers diving into advanced theology
Busy moms, professionals, or anyone craving flexible, on-demand access

At Bible Cafe™ University, we’re passionate about equipping you with resources that honor the unity of the Body of Christ while celebrating its beautiful diversity. Dive into studies that speak to your heart today, and discover new voices that challenge and inspire you tomorrow.

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Grab a cup of coffee or tea… and get access to On-Demand Bible Studies today!

With anytime access, you’ll never have to pause your spiritual journey again. Watch videos whenever it fits your day, repeat studies that resonate with you, and build a deeper connection with Scripture.

Join the Bible Cafe™ community and experience the convenience of on-demand learning tailored for real, busy lives. Your faith journey awaits—start refilling your cup today!

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What Are Bible Verses For Hard Times

We are not immune to hard times. Many are looking for Bible Verses About Hard Times. When times are difficult we are seeking hope. And also faith or personal revival. The Holy Bible is filled with Bible verses to carry us through hard times. When it feels like you’re drowning in a sea of troubled waters, here are some Bible verses about hard times.

What Are Bible Verses For Hard Times

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I suppose hard times look different for each one of us. For example, a job loss is difficult for people. Others might find themselves with challenges related to their health. Or someone they are caring for at home. Marriages hit turbulent waves. Prodigals give parents a rough ride.

56 Bible Verses For Difficult Times

We are no immune to difficulty simply because we are Christian. Or love God. From Genesis to Revelation the Bible stories are filled with hard times.

If you watch sermons from Rick and Kay Warren at Saddleback Church, you saw their strong faith after their son lost his battle with depression. If you follow TobyMac on Facebook you saw Bible verses about hard times after his son passed away. A few months later TobyMac lost his sister too.

Women in my Bible study groups have listened to testimonies of the hard times I have endured. Perhaps you have too.

Bible verses about hard times are helpful. These are the times I found myself looking for BibIe strength. The time I prayed over my friend Linda when her daughter was diagnosed with leukemia. And saw a community of faith rally around the family. The time when Renee lost her newborn baby at 49 days old. I watch her faith magnify through Bible verses about hard times. Last month when Chasity pleaded with God for her son to receive a new heart, I watched and saw a miracle. We find comfort in Bible verses about hard times.

We are not immune to hard times. Jesus walked through great difficulties. He teaches us in the Scriptures how to keep faith in hard times.

Bible Verses About Hard Times (write these down)

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 1 John 4:4 NIV

We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Ephesians 6:10 NIV

Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. Ephesians 6:11 NIV

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12 NIV

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Ephesians 6:13 NIV

Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. Ephesians 6:14-15 NIV

In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Ephesians 6:16 NIV

Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:17 NIV

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Ephesians 6:18 NIV

For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 NIV

We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one. 1 John 5:19 NIV

The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 2 Corinthians 4:4 NIV

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8 NIV

Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven—if there was anything to forgive—I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake, in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. 2 Corinthians 2:10-11 NIV

More Bible Verses About Hard Times

We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one. 1 John 5:19 NIV

Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Messiah. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down.” Revelation 12:10 NIV

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ. Colossians 2:8 NIV

Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour. 1 John 2:18 NIV

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33 NIV

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7 NIV

The LORD said to Satan, “Very well, then, everything he has is in your power, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.” Job 1:12 NIV

Now is the time for judgment on this world; now the prince of this world will be driven out. John 12:31 NIV

He put on righteousness as his breastplate, and the helmet of salvation on his head; he put on the garments of vengeance and wrapped himself in zeal as in a cloak. Isaiah 59:17 NIV

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

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 NIV

To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32 NIV

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. Romans 1:16 NIV

For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. Psalm 84:11 NIV

He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Romans 8:32 NIV

Encouraging Bible Verses For Hard Times

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. Psalm 119:105 NIV

They are not just idle words for you—they are your life. By them you will live long in the land you are crossing the Jordan to possess. Deut 32:47 NIV

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 NIV

Everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God. 1 John 5:4-5 NIV

They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. Acts 1:14 NIV

I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. Luke 10:19 NIV

For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, he has rejected you as king.” 1 Sam 15:23 NIV

Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Deut 18:10-11 NIV

In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Eph 4:26-27 NIV

And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross. Col 2:15 NIV

Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God. John 1:12 NIV

The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart. 1 Sam 16:7 NIV

All his laws are before me; I have not turned away from his decrees. Psalm 18:22

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 NIV

You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. Psalm 51:16-17 NIV

A Few More Bible Verses About Hard Times

If two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. Matt 18:19 NIV

They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. Revelation 12:11 NIV

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. 1 Cor 10:13 NIV

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. Phil 4:19 NIV

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Phil 4:13 NIV

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. James 1:2-4 NIV

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 NIV

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Phil 4:6-7 NIV

There you saw how the LORD your God carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way you went until you reached this place. Deut 1:31 NIV

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. Psalm 23:4 NIV

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