Bible Verses About Strength

The Bible reveals that true strength comes not from human ability, but from God's power working through our weakness. These verses remind us that when we wait upon the Lord, He renews our strength and enables us to overcome any challenge.

7 Verses

1. Philippians 4:13

"I can do all this through him who gives me strength."
Often misunderstood as unlimited personal achievement, Paul's context reveals this verse is about contentment in all circumstances. Paul had just stated "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation." The strength Christ provides enables contentment whether in abundance or want, not unlimited personal success (BibleHub Commentaries).

2. 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."
Written to exhausted exiles in Babylon, this promise offers hope to the weary. The Hebrew "qavah" (wait/hope) means expectant anticipation, like a rope stretched tight awaiting release. The eagle metaphor shows that like eagles using storms to rise higher, believers can use trials as opportunities to rise above circumstances. God doesn't grow faint or weary, making Him an endless source of renewed strength (Crossway Biblical Commentary).

3. 2 Corinthians 12:9

"But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."
Paul's response to his "thorn in the flesh" reveals God's counterintuitive kingdom principle. God's grace "is sufficient" (present tense) emphasizes the ever-present availability of divine grace. Paul's earthly weaknesses become the platform for demonstrating God's power. This verse forms the foundation of Paul's self-defense throughout 2 Corinthians, showing that weakness, not strength, qualifies us for God's power (Biblical Hub Commentary).

4. Nehemiah 8:10

"Nehemiah said, "Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.""
Spoken during the celebration after Ezra read the Law to the returning exiles, this occurred just 52 days after rebuilding Jerusalem's walls. When the people wept upon hearing God's word, Nehemiah commanded celebration instead. The Hebrew "ma'oz" is typically translated "stronghold" or "fortress" rather than "strength" - God's joy serves as our protective fortress. True spiritual renewal comes from understanding God's grace, not just conviction of sin (GotQuestions.org Commentary).

5. Psalm 46:1

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."
Unlike psalms that begin with crisis descriptions, Psalm 46 opens with God's provision. The psalmist applies "the logic of faith" - if God is truly our refuge, strength, and help, there's no logical reason to fear even the greatest crisis. This psalm likely celebrates God's deliverance of Jerusalem from Assyrian siege, demonstrating God's protection in impossible circumstances (BibleHub Commentaries).

6. Joshua 1:9

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
God's command to Joshua before entering the Promised Land emphasizes that courage isn't a feeling but an act of faith. "Be strong in the strength of the Lord" - true strength comes from trusting God's power to meet our needs in battle against enemies. Fear isn't an option for believers; when it arises, we must repent and trust God's promises. This command comes with divine power to obey it (BibleHub Commentaries).

7. Isaiah 41:10

"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."
Part of Isaiah's "Servant Songs," this promise was given to Israel facing overwhelming challenges. The command "Do not fear" occurs repeatedly in Scripture but always comes with reasons we don't need to fear. God's presence ("I am with you"), relationship ("I am your God"), and three-fold promise (strengthen, help, uphold) provide comprehensive assurance. His "righteous right hand" signifies His power and justice working on our behalf (Biblical Hub Commentary).

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