
As a woman we go through so much already, and in the church, we will also face tribulations. Things can seem perfect, until they’re not.
“Did God really hear me?”
“Why hasn’t he answered my prayer?”
“Do I have a calling?”
If you been here or maybe you haven’t, but you want to learn more about the Bible keep on reading. I will not explain the history or context of these verses, but I will leave other resources for you to check out at the end.
Also, check out this other blog post with a similar theme.
WHEN READING MY BIBLE IS NOT WORKING
Scripture Has a Purpose
A Renewed Mind in Christ
Motivation Ladder
Who is Teaching us?
Let’s Begin with the List
Now, let me tell you that these verses in themselves are not the problem. This is God’s word after all, and we can trust it as true and nothing else. The problem is really the teachings and false hope that surrounds and continues to be preached around these commonly known verses.
#1
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13 ESV
In context 4:10-13
We are more than conquers, victorious and powerful women. Does that sound too familiar?
As a new Christian I was certainly a defeated, unmotivated and sin driven women, so these words were so comforting. And quick note: God through his word can help us be courageous, Spirit filled and virtues in all we do.
The difference, I would say is to think that in “ALL THINGS” we will somehow be these supernatural women.
ALL THINGS…The house, the career, the money, the mental health, the kids, the husband/boyfriend…
And that in all things God will give us strength. Even if it’s contrary to scripture and against his will, hmm. I don’t think that’s how it goes.
Are we servants or goddesses?
I don’t want to ramble, but the point is that you and I have to go from simply being motivated that nothing in life can go wrong, to knowing that yes, everything can go wrong.
And yet God can give me the strength to somehow live with all the possible afflictions that come. Whether it’s poverty, sickness or trails.
He is the source of our strength in the tribulation. The daily grind, as we know it is hard but we have faith, hope and love.
We have Christ! He is our strength and fortress through the bumpy road ahead.
I can do “all the hard things” that come through Christ who strengthens me.
#2
God is within her, she will not fall.
God will help her at break of day.
#3
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
What ends up happening when we use scripture in the wrong way is that disappointment and confusion find their way in. It’s great to know or “think” that God has great plans for us___ BUT are those the Lord’s exact words for us?
I guess the book of Job is not in the Bible! (The guy surely knew this verse, right?)
Here is the problem. This verse sounds so good, and it can be of so much encouragement to God’s people, but we have to know that this is about a very specific moment in history.
God had sent his people into exile (as punishment) and lots of horrible things happened.
In the end God would restore them. What a marvelous story of God’s grace.
If you’re a believer you have a promise that one day this world will be judged, and our King and Savior will return.
God’s promises go beyond this world and our present afflictions. The Bible narrative is rich of encouragement to help us wait. It doesn’t promise a good and perfect life here.
Afterall, this Earth is polluted with sin and needs a savior. You and I need to understand that God’s plan and future for us goes beyond this moment intime. Time is so short. It’s like a flower… it’s gone quickly.
This verse can encourage us right now, but it’s not about our dreams. God’s hopes, plans and thoughts are not like ours (Isaiah 55:8-9).
We are pilgrim’s sister!
Thanks for sticking until the end. Please share this post with anyone you think could benefit from it. And as always please leave a comment.
Other blog posts you might like:
3 Things to Think About When We Feel Like there is “No Time” (pigmentscript.com)
Other sources to read:
What is the purpose of the Bible? | GotQuestions.org
What is the meaning of “for I know the plans I have for you” in Jeremiah 29:11? | GotQuestions.org
Welcome to this short list of Bible verses that will surely get you thinking. After years in the church, these verses left me confused and disappointed.






Dear pigmentscript.com owner, Thanks for the valuable information!
Milan, thank you! I hope it was helpful.