When I was 8 years old, my family moved from the beaches of New Hampshire to the suburbs of Philadelphia. Even today, I can remember the awkwardness of trying to fit in with my new neighbors and classmates. They laughed at the way I pronounced “aunt.” They snickered when I said “wicked.” And they made fun of my love for snow, cold air and winter.

Apparently, 300 miles made quite a difference. So much of a difference, in fact, that I spent my first several months feeling like an outsider. At one point, I even decided that I didn’t need new friends; I would rely on my brother to keep me company. Thankfully, this awkwardness eventually passed, and I grew to love my new home.

Even though I overcame this transition long ago, new situations still leave me feeling like an 8-year-old version of myself. The ache in my stomach, the uncertainty about myself, the fear that I’ll never fit in—it all comes rushing back.

Have you ever felt this way? Maybe you don’t fit in with your spouse’s family. Maybe your co-workers rarely invite you to after-work dinners. Maybe you recently moved and have yet to adjust to your new surroundings. Maybe you approach life differently than your neighbors and wonder if they view you as the odd ball on the block.

Regardless of your situation, you feel lonely and out of place. And you wonder if you’ll ever fit in with your friends, family members, neighbors and co-workers.

In these moments, you can turn to Scripture for reminders of God’s peace and assurance. These four Bible verses will get you started:

1. Deuteronomy 31:8 (GNTD)
   “The Lord himself will lead you and be with you. He will not fail you or abandon you, so do not lose courage or be afraid.”
2. John 14:27 (GNTD)
   “Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid.”
3. Psalm 139:1-2 (GNTD)
   “Lord, you have examined me and you know me. You know everything I do; from far away you understand all my thoughts.”
4. Matthew 10:29-31 (GNTD)
   For only a penny you can buy two sparrows, yet not one sparrow falls to the ground without your Father's consent.As for you, even the hairs of your head have all been counted. So do not be afraid; you are worth much more than many sparrows!