What do you say when there are no words?

You suffer daily from an incurable disease.

A loved one receives a terminal diagnosis.

A child passes away in a tragic accident.

There are times when suffering can overwhelm our souls and leave us feeling like even praying is impossible.

Even at the deepest points of our suffering and grief, God promises that he will draw near to us (Psalm 34:18). His Word tells us that not one moment of our suffering goes unnoticed by our heavenly Father (Psalm 56:8). When we feel like we’ll be crushed by our pain, God promises that he will heal us (Psalm 147:3). And when we feel like there are no words for our suffering, Scripture tells us that the Holy Spirit translates the cries of our hearts:

In the same way the Spirit also comes to help us, weak as we are. For we do not know how we ought to pray; the Spirit himself pleads with God for us in groans that words cannot express.

Romans 8:26 GNT

When we face difficult times, God invites us to bring our pain, grief, anger, and anxiety to him in prayer. He tells us to give our burdens to him because of the deep love he has for us (1 Peter 5:7). No matter what we’re experiencing, we can be certain that God hears our prayers. And as we bring our cares to our heavenly Father, Scripture tells us that God will respond by providing us with comfort and peace that passes understanding.

Here are four verses to inspire your prayers during difficult times.

Pray courageously.

We have courage in God’s presence, because we are sure that he hears us if we ask him for anything that is according to his will.

1 John 5:14 GNT

Pray with hope and patience.

Let your hope keep you joyful, be patient in your troubles, and pray at all times.

Romans 12:12 GNT

Pray for God’s wisdom.

If any of you lack wisdom, you should pray to God, who will give it to you; because God gives generously and graciously to all.

James 1:5 GNT

Pray without ceasing.

Don’t worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. And God’s peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7 GNT