When life feels overwhelming, many people turn to the comforting phrase: “This too shall pass.”
It’s often quoted during seasons of grief, stress, or uncertainty — but is “this too shall pass” actually a Bible verse?
The short answer is no — the exact phrase does not appear in Scripture. However, the truth behind it is deeply biblical.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- Whether “this too shall pass” is found in the Bible
- Where the phrase comes from
- Bible verses that express the same powerful message
- How Scripture encourages us during difficult seasons
📖 Is “This Too Shall Pass” a Bible Verse?
No, “this too shall pass” is not a direct Bible verse. The phrase is often mistakenly attributed to Scripture because its message aligns so closely with biblical teaching.
🕊️ Origin of the Phrase
The phrase is commonly traced to ancient Persian wisdom, later popularized in Jewish and Christian storytelling. It was used as a reminder that:
- Hard times are temporary
- Joy and sorrow both change
- God remains faithful through every season
Though not a verse, the Bible clearly teaches this same truth.
🌈 Bible Verses That Reflect “This Too Shall Pass”
While the exact words aren’t in Scripture, many Bible verses echo its meaning — reminding us that suffering is temporary and God’s promises endure.
🌼 20 Bible Verses That Teach “This Too Shall Pass”
💔 For Times of Suffering
- 2 Corinthians 4:17
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”
- Psalm 30:5
“Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.”
- Isaiah 54:7–8
“For a brief moment I abandoned you, but with deep compassion I will bring you back.”
- 1 Peter 5:10
“After you have suffered a little while, [God] will restore you.”
- Lamentations 3:31–32
“For no one is cast off by the Lord forever.”
🌤️ For Hope and Endurance
- Ecclesiastes 3:1
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
- Romans 8:18
“Our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”
- James 1:2–4
“Consider it pure joy… because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”
- Hebrews 12:11
“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness.”
- Psalm 66:10–12 “For You, God, tested us… we went through fire and water, but You brought us to a place of abundance.”
🌿 For Trusting God’s Plan
- Romans 8:28
“In all things God works for the good of those who love Him.”
- Isaiah 43:2
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.”
- Psalm 34:19
“The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.”
- John 16:33
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
- Psalm 126:5
“Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.”
🌅 For Peace and Assurance
- Isaiah 26:3
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast.”
- Philippians 4:6–7
“Do not be anxious about anything… the peace of God will guard your hearts.”
- Psalm 55:22
“Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you.”
- Revelation 21:4
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes.”
- 2 Corinthians 1:3–4
“The God of all comfort… comforts us in all our troubles.”
🌿 What the Bible Really Teaches
The Bible doesn’t promise a life without pain — but it does promise that pain is not permanent.
“For the Lord will not reject forever.” — Lamentations 3:31
Every season has an end:
- Storms pass
- Grief softens
- Healing comes
- Joy returns
God is present through it all, working quietly even when we can’t see it.
🙏 A Short Prayer for Difficult Seasons
Lord, when my heart feels heavy and the road feels long, remind me that You are with me. Help me trust that this season will pass, and that Your purpose will remain. Give me strength for today and hope for tomorrow. Amen.
FAQ: “This Too Shall Pass” Bible Verse
Is “this too shall pass” found in the Bible?
No, the exact phrase is not in the Bible, but many verses teach the same message — that suffering is temporary and God’s faithfulness endures.
Why do people think it’s a Bible verse?
Because its meaning aligns closely with biblical themes of hope, endurance, and God’s sovereignty over seasons.
What Bible verse best matches “this too shall pass”?
2 Corinthians 4:17 is often considered the closest: “Our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory.”
Is it biblical to say “this too shall pass”?
Yes — as long as it points us toward trust in God, not denial of pain. Scripture encourages hope without ignoring suffering.
What should I remember when going through a hard season?
That God is with you, He sees your pain, and He promises restoration — even if the process takes time.
🌈 Final Encouragement
“This too shall pass” is not a Bible verse — but it is a biblical truth.
Your pain is real. Your struggle matters. But your season is not permanent.
“Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.” — Psalm 31:24
Hold on — God is still writing your story.
