Life is filled with both blessings and losses. There are times of joy and times of grief, moments when everything seems to be going right—and others when it all seems to fall apart.
In the midst of it all, Job’s famous words, “The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away,” offer a powerful reminder: God is sovereign in both seasons. He’s with us when we’re gaining and when we’re grieving.
This phrase comes from a deep place of sorrow, yet also profound faith. In this post, we’ll walk through 15 Bible verses that connect with this truth—that God is in control, and we can trust Him no matter what we gain or lose.
Key Takeaways Before We Begin
- God is sovereign over all things—both giving and taking.
- Loss does not mean God has abandoned us.
- True faith trusts God through every season of life.
- These verses offer comfort, perspective, and hope during grief and uncertainty.
Also Read: 15+ Powerful Bible Verses The Lord Is My Light And Salvation
15 Bible Verses Related to The Lord Gives and the Lord Takes Away
1. Job 1:21
And said, Naked came I out of my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return thither: the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.
Explanation:
This is the original verse. After losing everything, Job responds not with bitterness but with worship. It’s a powerful example of faith in suffering.
2. Ecclesiastes 3:1
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
Explanation:
This verse reminds us that gain and loss are both part of life’s rhythm. Trusting God means accepting every season He allows.
3. Ecclesiastes 3:6
A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
Explanation:
This verse follows the theme of seasons and shows that even loss has its place. God’s timing is perfect, even when we don’t understand it.
4. Psalm 34:18
The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.
Explanation:
God is close to us in our lowest moments. When things are taken from us, His presence is our comfort.
5. James 1:17
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Explanation:
Everything we have is a gift from God. He gives in love and consistency—even when circumstances shift.
6. Romans 8:28
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Explanation:
Even in loss, God is working for our good. We may not see it right away, but His plan is always greater than our pain.
7. Isaiah 55:8-9
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.
For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Explanation:
We don’t always understand God’s actions. This verse reminds us that His wisdom and perspective are far beyond ours.
8. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
Explanation:
Thankfulness in loss doesn’t mean we’re happy about it—it means we trust God in it. Gratitude keeps our heart tender toward Him.
9. Hebrews 13:5
Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
Explanation:
God’s presence is our greatest possession. Even when other things are taken, He remains faithful and near.
10. Psalm 73:26
My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.
Explanation:
When you feel like everything is falling apart, this verse reminds you that God is your strength and eternal portion.
11. Philippians 4:12-13
I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry… I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Explanation:
Paul reminds us that we can endure any circumstance—loss or gain—because Christ gives us strength.
12. Psalm 30:5
For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.
Explanation:
Loss may last for a time, but it’s not the end of the story. God promises joy and restoration in His perfect time.
13. John 10:29
My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.
Explanation:
No matter what is taken from us, we are never taken from God. Our salvation and security are unshakable in Him.
14. Isaiah 46:10
Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:
Explanation:
God is in control of every chapter—beginning to end. Even what seems like loss is part of His greater plan.
15. Lamentations 3:22-23
It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.
They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
Explanation:
God’s mercy renews each day. Even in grief, His compassion never runs dry. His faithfulness holds us together.
Final Thoughts: Faith in the Giver, Not Just the Gift
The truth behind the Lord gives and the Lord takes away is not about blaming God for our losses—it’s about recognizing His sovereignty and trusting His heart, even when we don’t understand His hand. These verses encourage us to anchor our faith in the Giver, not just the gifts.
He is faithful in blessing and still faithful in brokenness.
What Has God Taught You in Loss?
Have you ever experienced a season of loss where God showed you something deeper? Which verse helped you hold on?
Share your experience or favorite verse in the comments. Let’s walk through this together, trusting the God who gives and takes with love.