Clinging to Scripture

Psalm 23.3 -2 -3

“What Scripture verse are you clinging to?”

Years ago, a friend asked me this. At the time, I was dealing with some issues, and in a rare moment of vulnerability, I shared with her what I was struggling with.

“What verse is getting you through this?” she asked.

Although I’d never thought of it this way before, I knew immediately which verse I’d been clinging to for dear life.

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 NLT

In it I’d found the comfort and strength I desperately needed.

Over the years, I’ve gone back to that same question—often reminding myself and sometimes asking others.

“What Scripture verse are you clinging to?”

For me, the answer has been different depending on the circumstances at the time. Different trials require different verses, but the result of how it gets me through that struggle is the same.

Clinging to Scripture changes my focus—from me to Him.

It reminds me that God is in control and nothing is impossible for Him.

Keeping a particular verse in front of me (whether in my mind or written down) leads me to pray throughout the day, drawing me into a closer relationship with Him.

I don’t know what you might be going through right now, but may I ask you?

What Scripture verse are you clinging to?

If you were to ask me today, I would tell you my verse is Psalm 23:3.

He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to His name. Psalm 23:3 NLT

It reminds me that He will renew my strength. It won’t come from myself or others I look to.

It reassures me that He is guiding and leading me on the path He has put me on. He hasn’t left me to figure out which way to go, and He will show me the way back when I get distracted and start to stray.

So, for right now, this is the verse that’s getting me through.

How about you—is it time to find your verse? One that speaks to you…one that brings you strength, comfort, and peace…one you can cling to when nothing else feels stable.

Where in God’s Word are you finding what you need to get through your current struggle?

Photo credit: K. Rath 2015

4 Responses to Clinging to Scripture
  1. Elizabeth Stewart
    February 4, 2015 | 10:17 pm

    I love that verse in the NLT. I agree with the Psalmist when he said that God’s Word has been my song on life’s pilgrimage. Hebrews 10:36 in the Amplified Bible is what I’m trusting in.

    • Laura Rath
      February 5, 2015 | 9:44 am

      For you have need of steadfast patience and endurance, so that you may perform and fully accomplish the will of God, and thus receive and [a]carry away [and enjoy to the full] what is promised. -Hebrews 10:36 AMP

      Patience and endurance – I need that too right now! Thanks Elizabeth. God bless!

  2. Lyli
    February 5, 2015 | 11:42 am

    I went through a deep valley in 2012. First I landed in the hospital for emergency gall bladder surgery. The recovery was painfully slow as I had all types of complications, and I ended up clinically depressed. It was the hardest season of my life. I clung to so many passages during this period. One that comes quickly to mind is “There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off” (Proverbs 23:18). Scripture is a lifeline for me. I am so thankful for the living word.

    Thanks for linking up at Thought-Provoking Thursday today! 🙂

    • Laura Rath
      February 5, 2015 | 12:50 pm

      Scripture is most definitely a lifeline! There is so much power, strength, and comfort to be found in God’s Word. Thank you for sharing here Lyli!