12 Bible Verses About Despair

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
Published on:

Bible verses about despair

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about despair:

1. Psalm 34:17-18 – “The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.”
2. Psalm 42:11 – “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.”
3. Psalm 143:7-8 – “Hear me speedily, O Lord: my spirit faileth: hide not thy face from me, lest I be like unto them that go down into the pit. Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee.”
4. Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
5. Romans 8:38-39 – “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.”
6. 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 – “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;”

7. Psalm 40:1-2 – “I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.”
8. Lamentations 3:21-23 – “This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”
9. 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.”
10. 1 Peter 5:7 – “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”
11. Hebrews 13:5-6 – “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.”
12. Psalm 55:22 – “Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.”

What does the bible say about despair?

The Bible addresses despair as a common human experience that can arise from various circumstances such as suffering, loss, or feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges.

It acknowledges that despair can lead to feelings of hopelessness, discouragement, and a sense of being abandoned by God.

However, the Bible also offers hope and encouragement to those who are struggling with despair, emphasizing the importance of turning to God in times of trouble, trusting in His promises, and finding strength in His presence.

It teaches that God is a source of comfort, peace, and restoration for those who are in despair, and that through faith and perseverance, one can overcome feelings of despair and find renewed hope and purpose in life.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about despair?

1. Job 3 – This chapter describes Job’s deep despair and anguish after experiencing immense suffering and loss. Reading this chapter can provide insight into the depths of despair and how even the most faithful can struggle with feelings of hopelessness.

2. Psalm 22 – This chapter is a lamentation of despair and agony, expressing feelings of abandonment and distress. Reading this chapter can help one connect with the raw emotions of despair and find solace in knowing that even the psalmist experienced similar struggles.

3. Lamentations 3 – This chapter is a powerful expression of despair and grief, yet also contains a message of hope and faith in the midst of suffering. Reading this chapter can provide comfort and encouragement in times of despair, reminding us that there is always hope even in the darkest moments.

4. Matthew 27 – This chapter describes the crucifixion of Jesus and the despair felt by his followers as they witnessed his death. Reading this chapter can help one understand the depths of despair experienced by those who loved and followed Jesus, yet also find hope in the resurrection and promise of redemption.

Ideas and concepts related to despair that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.’

1. Hopelessness: The feeling of despair often stems from a sense of hopelessness, where one feels overwhelmed by circumstances and sees no way out. In the Bible, there are numerous instances where individuals faced seemingly insurmountable challenges, but found hope and strength in their faith in God. For example, the story of Job illustrates how he maintained hope and trust in God despite facing immense suffering and despair.

2. Faith: Faith is a central theme in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God’s plan and promises even in the midst of despair. By placing one’s faith in God, individuals can find comfort and strength to overcome feelings of despair. The story of David and Goliath is a powerful example of how faith in God can help conquer seemingly impossible situations.

3. Redemption: The concept of redemption is also closely related to despair in the Bible. The idea that God can bring about redemption and restoration even in the darkest of times provides hope and comfort to those experiencing despair. The story of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection is the ultimate example of how God can bring about redemption and hope in the midst of despair.

Overall, the Bible offers a message of hope and encouragement for those experiencing despair, emphasizing the importance of faith, hope, and redemption in overcoming feelings of hopelessness. By turning to God and trusting in His plan, individuals can find strength and comfort in the midst of despair.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.