When things go don’t work out the way we planned, when we feel unsure of our purpose or think that our accomplishments aren’t of any value, we can end up feeling extremely dejected. Social media has increased our access to information on how our peers are doing and this can feed feelings of discouragement as we’re constantly surrounded by information and glossy updates on how fantastic everyone else’s lives seem to be. Sometimes these seemingly great developments in other people’s lives can come at a time when we’re at a low point and they can cause us to feel even more inadequate. But it’s worth remembering that social media only shows the highlights of people’s lives and we always have the option to log off, unfollow or take an extended break from it if it gets too much.

But aside from shutting ourselves off from information which can exacerbate feelings of discouragement, we also need to deal with the issue at its root. Knowing that God is with us every step of the way and remembering how much he loves us no matter whether or not we got that promotion, have figured out what we’re doing with our professional working life or are even feeling discouraged in a spiritual sense is central to overcoming a lack of confidence. Even when things aren’t necessarily going according to our plan, God has a plan for each and every single one of us.

Being patient and trusting in God’s Word are both great ways to conquer discouragement, so here are nine Bible verses that we can take comfort from.

Deuteronomy 31:6-8 – ‘Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.’

Joshua 1:9-11 – ‘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.’

Psalm 31:24 – Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.

Psalm 112:7 – They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.

Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 31:25 – She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.

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.

Mark 5:36 – Overhearing what they said, Jesus told him, ‘Don’t be afraid; just believe.’

2 Corinthians 5:7 – For we live by faith, not by sight.