Hi, my name is Jack. I became a dad two months ago and I feel totally inadequate.

Alright, that’s not entirely fair. I absolutely love my daughter and these past eight weeks have been some of the happiest of my life. Plus my wife is a rock star. When she’s around, I feel like we could have 11 more kids and be totally fine.

But every now and then, the full weight of parenthood slowly presses down on my shoulders. I’m responsible for a little human being! How in the world am I going to keep her well fed? Or properly clothed? Or alive?

Then my mind creeps into the future. What about when she sneaks out of the house? (She can’t even sneak out of her crib.) What about when she asks me really hard questions? (She can’t even say “no.”) What about when she likes boys? (Her only friend is a stuffed fox.)

Maybe you’re a parent too and know exactly what I’m going through. If so, please leave your reassuring comments below!

But even if you don’t have kids, I’m sure you’re facing an overwhelming circumstance of your own. Maybe a new job is stressing you out. Maybe a large mortgage is hanging over your head. Maybe a cherished relationship is in crisis.

If you’re feeling weak and inadequate, I have good news. God isn’t surprised. His Word reassures me that I have a place to turn for strength when I feel in over my head. Here are a few Bible verses that encourage me when I’m feeling totally inadequate. Read them and ask God for strength to walk confidently with him, one day at a time.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (GNTD)

But his answer was: “My grace is all you need, for my power is greatest when you are weak.” I am most happy, then, to be proud of my weaknesses, in order to feel the protection of Christ's power over me. I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and difficulties for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Isaiah 40:30-31 (GNTD)

Even those who are young grow weak;
young people can fall exhausted.
But those who trust in the Lord for help
will find their strength renewed.
They will rise on wings like eagles;
they will run and not get weary;
they will walk and not grow weak.

Philippians 4:13 (GNTD)

I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me.