I want to talk about something that’s been a big part of my journey—something raw, real, and challenging.
If you’ve ever dealt with PTSD, you know how much it can shake your world.
After my time in the military, I carried more than just memories home with me. I brought home flashbacks, sleepless nights, and a constant feeling like the world was closing in around me.
For a while, I didn’t know if I’d ever feel “normal” again.
But through it all, one thing became my lifeline: God’s Word and my faith journey.
The Bible wasn’t just a book for me—it became my battle plan. It reminded me that I wasn’t fighting this demon alone.
PTSD is a battle that affects both the mind and body. Symptoms like flashbacks, sleeplessness, anxiety, and even physical pain can feel overwhelming. But God’s Word provides hope, peace, and healing, offering strength for every step of the journey.
Today, I want to share the verses that helped me regain some sense of normalcy, find peace, and take back control of my mind.
(At the very end of the page, you can download a printable version of this page to keep handy in your journal.)
1. Hypervigilance or Feeling Unsafe
“He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings, you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.” Psalm 91:4:
Hypervigilance can leave you constantly on edge, always looking over your shoulder. This verse paints a comforting picture of God’s protection.
Imagine being sheltered under His wings, safe and secure no matter what’s happening around you.
His faithfulness is a shield that can quiet your fears, reminding you that He is watching over you at all times.
2. Flashbacks or Nightmares
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you.” Isaiah 26:3:
Flashbacks and nightmares make it feel like you’re trapped in the past, reliving moments you want to leave behind.
This verse reminds us that trusting in God brings peace that can quiet even the most chaotic thoughts.
When those memories flood your mind, repeat this promise and focus on His steady presence to ground you in the here and now.
3. Racing Heart or Panic Attacks
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7:
Panic attacks can make you feel like you’re losing control. This verse reminds us to bring every worry to God in prayer.
As you thank Him for His faithfulness, His peace will calm your racing heart and guard your mind against fear.
Trust Him to meet you in those moments with His steadying presence.
4. Trouble Sleeping
“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Psalm 4:8:
Sleep can feel elusive when your mind is filled with worry or fear. This verse reassures us that God’s presence brings safety and rest.
Whisper this promise before bed, asking God to surround you with His peace and protect you as you sleep.
Over time, trusting Him can help you release the anxieties that keep you awake.
5. Fatigue or Exhaustion
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31
The constant battle with PTSD symptoms can leave you feeling completely drained. But this verse reminds us that hope in God brings renewal.
He will give you the strength to keep going, even when you feel like you have nothing left. Trust in His promise to carry you when you’re too tired to keep moving.
6. Numbness or Emotional Disconnection
“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” Ezekiel 36:26
Emotional numbness can make it hard to connect with others—or even yourself. This verse offers hope that God can soften what feels hardened or unreachable.
Trust Him to bring life back into the places that feel cold or empty. He is the ultimate healer, and He can restore your heart to feel joy and love again.
A really great way to meditate on individual verses of scripture is by using the SOAP Bible Study Method (shown above). This is a simply method but helps you to really get a deeper understanding of what the verse means for you and how to apply it to your life.
7. Difficulty Concentrating
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6
When your mind feels scattered and unfocused, this verse provides clarity. Trusting God means you don’t have to figure everything out on your own.
Lean into Him when concentration feels impossible, and let Him guide your thoughts and steps. He will lead you through the fog to a place of peace.
Looking for some additional resources for studying the Bible? Here is an extensive library of (free) monthly topical Bible reading plans.
8. Avoidance or Isolation
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
Avoidance and isolation can feel like the easiest ways to cope, but this verse reminds us that we are never truly alone.
God’s presence goes with you into every situation, giving you the courage to face what you’ve been avoiding.
Trust Him to strengthen you as you take small steps back toward connection and community.
9. Irritability or Anger
“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” James 1:19-20
PTSD can make irritability and anger rise quickly, but this verse encourages us to pause. Anger may feel natural, but God calls us to respond with patience and grace.
When frustration builds, take a deep breath and pray for God’s help in responding with love. His Spirit can calm the storm inside you.
10. Overwhelming Fear or Feeling Trapped
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7
Fear can make you feel like you’re stuck in a cycle of panic, but this verse is a powerful reminder of what God has given you.
His Spirit brings power to overcome fear, love to conquer doubt, and self-discipline to stay grounded.
Lean into His Spirit when fear feels overwhelming, trusting Him to guide you through it.
11. Startling Easily
“The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” Psalm 121:7-8
Startling easily can make you feel like you’re constantly on edge. This verse reminds you that God is always watching over you, protecting you from harm.
When sudden noises or movements trigger fear, remember His constant care. He is your refuge, guarding you in every moment.
12. Feeling Hopeless or Despairing
“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
Hopelessness can feel like a heavy weight, but God’s plans for you are full of hope.
This verse is a promise that your future is not defined by pain but by the good things God has in store for you.
Trust in His purpose and hold onto the hope He provides.
13. Chronic Pain or Muscle Tension
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
Physical symptoms like pain and tension can be exhausting. Jesus invites you to bring those burdens to Him and find rest.
His gentleness and care provide relief for both your body and soul. When the weight feels too heavy, let Him carry it with you.
14. Loss of Joy or Depression
“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10:
Depression can rob you of joy, but this verse reminds you that God’s joy is a source of strength.
Even in the darkest times, His presence can bring light and renewal. Lean into His joy when life feels heavy, trusting Him to restore what feels lost.
15. Feeling Out of Control
“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10
When life feels chaotic and out of control, this verse invites you to be still and remember who God is.
His sovereignty means that no matter how overwhelming your circumstances feel, He is still in control.
Rest in His presence and let Him bring order to the chaos.
16. Shame or Unworthiness
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1
PTSD often brings feelings of guilt or shame for things beyond your control. This verse reminds you that in Christ, there is no condemnation.
You are not defined by your mistakes, your past, or the things that happened to you. God’s grace covers you completely.
When shame creeps in, hold tightly to this truth: you are free, forgiven, and loved beyond measure.
17. Constant Worry or Overthinking
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34
Worry and overthinking can feel like an endless loop. Jesus speaks directly to this in Matthew, reminding us to focus on the present and trust Him with tomorrow.
Each day comes with its own challenges, but God’s mercies are new every morning.
Surrender your worries to Him and trust that He is already working on what lies ahead.
18. Overwhelming Grief
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18:
Grief can feel unbearable, but this verse offers reassurance that God draws near in your pain.
He is not distant; He is close, comforting you in your sorrow and holding you when your spirit feels crushed.
When the weight of grief feels too heavy, lean on God’s presence and know that He is walking with you through the darkness.
19. Struggling with Trust
“The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” Proverbs 18:10
Trust is often difficult after experiencing trauma, but God’s name is a refuge. His faithfulness is unshakable, and His love is constant.
This verse invites you to run to Him, finding safety and peace in His presence.
When trust feels impossible, remind yourself that God’s character is a fortress, unchanging and secure.
20. Feeling Weak or Vulnerable
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
Vulnerability can feel like a weakness, but God’s grace transforms it into a place of strength. This verse reminds us that His power works best in our weakest moments.
You don’t have to have it all together—God’s grace is enough. Lean into Him when you feel exposed or fragile, and let His strength carry you through.
Final Thoughts
PTSD is a difficult battle, but you don’t have to face it alone. And it isn’t something specific to military service.
Any traumatic event can result in a combination of these feelings and emotions that can literally cripple you.
The truth is that the enemy (Satan) uses it as a way to keep you captive and from thriving in God’s loving grace.
I wasn’t a Christian when I first left the military. I tried so many things to numb my pain and calm my thoughts and nothing worked.
It wasn’t until I found God and started truly meditating on His Word daily and going to church and surrounding myself with other Christian friends that I learned how to take captive my negative thoughts and emotions.
There are still days when these feelings or emotions (try) to creep in. But instead of letting them control me, I simply focus on God’s Word and His truths and that helps me return to a peaceful state.
So, friend, whatever symptoms you may be struggling with, God’s Word provides a lifeline of hope and peace.
Which of these verses speaks to you the most?
I encourage you to take a deeper dive into taking control of your thoughts and emotions with this Transforming Negative Thoughts Bible study.
Be sure to download a printable version of this page (without ads) to keep in your journal for reference.
**This list of scriptures is intended for informational purposes only. If you are struggling with PTSD, it is important that you seek support from a licensed mental health provider. I would personally recommend to find a Christian counselor because they will help you learn to use scripture as part of your treatment plan.
