Faith on Speed Dial: Emergency Bible Numbers

By: The MSP Writers

Life is full of ups and downs, and sometimes those negative emotions can feel overwhelming. When those tough feelings hit hard and make it difficult to get through the day, remember that the Bible can offer guidance and support. I asked my fellow MSP writers for their go-to "emergency Bible verses," and I had them anonymously answer why they find them helpful. If you're struggling, try writing down verses that resonate with you on a sticky note and placing it where you'll see it often: your mirror, desk, or planner, as a reminder of God's message and presence in your life. Here are the numbers you should "call" when you need God's guidance...

When you are struggling to trust God… “5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

• When I am struggling to trust God, I often turn back to this verse because it reminds me to “lean not on my own understanding.” Oftentimes, I find myself setting expectations for how certain events will go in my life, and when they don’t ultimately meet my expectations, I become angry at God and I struggle to trust Him. However, from previous experience, I have learned to trust in the Lord and his plan because what he is planning for me is bigger than my expectations. Although it takes time for things “to work out”, things always have a way of working out for the best and benefiting us later in life. Things do come together. We just have to have patience, faith, and trust in God’s plan to unfold. Think about it like this: your plan might be a single rose, but God’s plan is a whole bouquet, abundant and beautiful. 

When you need confidence…“5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns.” (Psalm 46:5)

• I remember this verse when I need a confidence boost. If I am about to take a difficult test or something that is nerve-racking, I remind myself who my God is and that I’m His daughter. With this verse, the Lord tells us He is on our side, and that we should be confident because we are women of God.

When you’re worried about the future…“34 So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today’s trouble is enough for today. (Matthew 6:34)

• Often, I find myself caught up in worrying about the future, whether it be an upcoming test, an event I’m nervous about, or just my future in general. But during these times when I feel off balance or uncertain about what’s to come, I remember this verse to give me perspective. God calls us to stay in the present moment and have faith, simply trusting in Him. We just have to remember: God is so much bigger than what you are worrying about!

When you feel stressed…“22 A cheerful heart is a good medicine, but a downcast spirit dries up the bones.” (Proverbs 17:22)

• I can so easily get caught up in being stressed out or weighed down by all the negatives in my life, but this verse really helps me remember that what I turn my focus on reflects how I will feel. I sometimes get so anxious that I have a hard time breathing, but then I focus on why I am feeling this way. Why am I getting so anxious or discouraged? It’s usually because I’m narrowing in so much on what is going wrong. I feel quite literally like I am drying up. However, when I take the time to be positive, optimistic, and try to look for God through things, I feel happier and more motivated to take on life. 

When you need motivation…“14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14)

• My grandfather loved this Bible quote, and now my dad does too. Ever since I first heard it, I call it when I am having trouble living up to the best version of myself, and am failing to “press on towards the goal,” which is heaven. I call it to mind when I want to give up on a large pile of homework, or when I’m in a bad situation and have to be the bigger person, even when it’s hard. It’s a simple yet powerful reminder that although we face many challenges in life, if we can persevere, the reward will be great in heaven. The next time life meets you with trials and tribulations, just remember why you keep going, for Christ!

When you need hope and guidance…. “7 Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7) 

• When life gets challenging and I am confused about what to do next, I always find myself coming back to this verse. This quote gives me reassurance and reminds me that the Lord is always providing love and care for me. This is because God is always there, waiting. Even when there is chaos and craziness within our daily lives, God is always by our side and willing to give us exactly what we need. All you need to do is ask for his guidance. “Knock, and the door will be opened to you.”