30 Sep What Books of the Bible Are Best for Encouragement?

Books of the Bible That Provide Encouragement

As Christians, we know that the Bible contains many valuable lessons for growth. The Bible is absolute truth, the most important book you will ever read. By reading and studying the Bible, we are challenged, motivated, inspired, convicted, and encouraged! Regardless of the season of life in which you find yourself, there is a book, passage, or verse that will speak to you.

So, what books of the Bible are best for encouragement? Believers will find various forms of encouragement in every single book of the Bible. However, Psalms and Proverbs are often regarded as the best books of the Bible for encouragement! In these books, we find practical axioms, wisdom, and encouragement for the struggles we are facing.

Whether you find yourself in the middle of a trial or you are simply looking for some words of encouragement to share with a friend, the Bible has exactly what you need! In this post, we will share more about some of the most encouraging books of the bible. We will also share a great list of the best Bible verses for encouragement as a quick resource! 

Encouraging Books of the Bible

In 2 Timothy 3:16-17 we read, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,  that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” 

The Bible is composed of 66 unique books, each with their own purpose, format, and author. Throughout these books, we find valuable lessons, challenges, and encouragement! As we read through the Scripture, we can glean encouragement from every single book from Genesis to Revelation. While this encouragement may sometimes be a simple phrase, other times, it may be a story of God’s faithfulness to others. 

Encouragement in the Bible comes in many forms. However, there are certain books that are regarded as a greater source of encouragement for ourselves and for others. Psalms and Proverbs are typically regarded as two of the most encouraging books of the Bible. In addition to having vast amounts of encouragement, these two books are also easy to understand – a great place for a first-time Bible read to begin their studies!

Psalms

The book of Psalms, found about mid-way through the Bible, is a poetic collection of sorts. This Old Testament book is one of two books that are written by several authors. King David is known as the primary author of the book of Psalms, with 73 Psalms attributed to his name. Other writers of the Psalms include Moses, Asaph, Solomon, Ethan, Heman the Ezrahites, and the descendants of Korah. 

Psalms reads like a book of poetry, following the various authors as they lament, rejoice, and reminisce on God’s faithfulness and grace. Many people consider Psalms to be an ancient hymnal of sorts as many of the passages were set to music. 

The book of Psalms is regarded as perhaps the most encouraging book of the Bible for several reasons. First, it encourages us by showing us that humans have experienced similar struggles for centuries. By reading about the struggles and laments of others, we are encouraged in knowing that we are not alone.

Secondly, the book of Psalms contains elaborate descriptions of God’s faithfulness in every season. Through these passages, we are encouraged to center our lives on God’s Word and trust in His goodness at all times.

Regardless of your current circumstances or the reason you are searching for encouragement, you are likely to find words that encourage your soul and spirit within the Psalms. 

Proverbs

Proverbs is the book immediately following Psalms. Another book that is full of everyday wisdom, Proverbs is incredibly encouraging for the challenges that we face today. Like Psalms, Proverbs is a book that was written by several authors. However, King Soloman is known as the principal author of Proverbs. 

Throughout Proverbs, we find countless axioms and encouragement that we can apply to our lives today. Similar to Psalms, we can glean encouragement by learning from the struggles and triumphs of those who have gone before us.

Finding Encouragement in Christ

We know that our only true hope and encouragement lies in Christ. Through the Bible, we learn more about His character and glean insight from the words that He inspired. When we face times of discouragement or despair, we must remember to search for encouragement in Christ!

Outside of reading the Bible, a few practical ways to accomplish this are through dedicated prayer time, worshiping through music, and fellowshipping with other believers.

Best Bible Verses for Encouragement

There are countless verses found throughout the Bible that offer encouragement for various situations. The following are some of the most popular Bible verses for encouragement:

Psalm 28:7

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.”

Psalm 121:1-8

“I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is your shade on your right hand. 

The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore.”

John 16:33

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Deuteronomy 31:6

“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”

Philippians 4:13

“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

Isaiah 43:2

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.”

1 Thessalonians 5:11

“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”

Isaiah 40:28-31

“Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. 

Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.”

As you read the Bible, you will continue to find verses that bring you encouragement in your unique situation! 

Using the Bible to Encourage Others

As Christians, it is our responsibility to use the Bible to encourage everyone around us! We know that Christ is our one true source of hope and joy. Through the valuable lessons and passages found throughout the Bible, we can encourage others when they are facing times of despair. 

Whether you know someone who is facing a challenge or simply needing to know they are not alone, think of ways that you can speak Biblical encouragement into their lives. One of the best ways to do this is to share an encouraging Bible verse with them in a note. 

Pray for wisdom, asking God to give you a word of encouragement for their situation. Listen to His leading and share with your friend a verse just for them! This may require boldness for some. However, you never know the tremendous impact that this true source of encouragement can have on their life! 

The Bible shares many valuable lessons in which we find comfort, challenge, conviction, and encouragement. In fact, the Bible can even help you with confidence! Next time you are feeling like you need a little pick me up, open your Bible up to the Psalms for a word meant just for you! 

Related Questions

What book of the Bible is best for beginners to read? There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to which book of the Bible to read first. Many believers recommend starting in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John for a complete story of the life of Jesus on earth. Others recommend the book of Romans as it clearly outlines our need for salvation. Still others recommend reading Genesis first as it lays the foundation for the rest of the Bible. Whatever book of the Bible you choose to read first, know that God will lead you in your studies as you seek to learn more about Him.