Introduction
Life can be unpredictable, throwing challenges and heartaches our way. Yet, in the midst of our struggles, there is a powerful phrase that can shift our perspective: But God. There are many examples of But God Bible verses that can encourage us in those situations.
BUT GOD. These two simple words serve as a reminder that even in the darkest moments, God has the power to intervene and bring about change. Whether we’re facing illness, financial strain, loneliness, or loss, the phrase But God highlights the truth that God can transform our situations in ways we can’t even imagine.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best But God Bible verses and But God quotes that illustrate His faithfulness and love. But first, we’ll look at the meaning of But God and what But God means in the Bible.
You’ll also find a complete overview of inspirational but God Bible verses, organized in themes. And we will pay close attention to two specific examples in the book of Ephesians and Romans.
Each of the But God verses serves as a testament to how God steps into our circumstances, reminding us that hope is always within reach.
So, as we delve into these transformative but God moments in the bible, reflect on your own “But God” experiences and let them encourage your faith journey.
What is the meaning of but God?
What does but God mean?
The phrase “But God” shows us how God steps into situations where things seem impossible or hopeless.
Let’s say…
- Doctors declared you ill, BUT GOD healed you.
- Your money didn’t cover till the end of the month, BUT GOD touched someone’s heart to bless you financially.
- You were overwhelmed by fear and anxiety, BUT GOD gave you peace that surpasses all understanding.
- You lost your job, BUT GOD opened the door to a better opportunity.
- You felt lonely and abandoned, BUT GOD brought the right people into your life to support and encourage you.
- The relationship seemed beyond repair, BUT GOD restored it and brought healing.
- You were uncertain about your future, BUT GOD guided your steps and made a way.
- The situation seemed hopeless, BUT GOD provided a solution just in time.
- You were stuck in a pattern of sin, BUT GOD offered grace and gave you the strength to break free.
- Your heart was broken, BUT GOD comforted you, healed your wounded heart, and made you whole again.
- Etc.
These but God examples are reminders that, no matter how bad things look, God can (and will) change the outcome.
It works like this:
- You said X, but God said Y.
- The doctor said A, but God said B.
- Or simply stated: The world says but god says…
It are the moments we shouldn’t lean on our own understanding but completely give over to God and trust only God. He will act!
I have seen many BUT GOD moments in my life—many! I’m sure that if you look back on your life and recall those situations you were hopeless and in despair, somehow God showed up and brought you out. Those are the BUT GOD moments.
When life feels overwhelming, or when we face struggles that seem too big to handle, the words “But God” point to God’s power to intervene. It reminds us that our challenges don’t have the final say—God does.
God’s strength, steadfast love, and grace can turn things around, even when it seems like there’s no way out.
For example, Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery, and it looked like his life was ruined. But God had a bigger plan, using that difficult situation to save many lives (Genesis 50:20).
In our lives, too, we may face difficulties, disappointments, or even fear. But our heavenly Father is always working for our good, offering us hope and strength. The phrase BUT GOD encourages us to trust God, knowing He can change any situation, no matter how difficult it seems.
When you are in hard times or a difficult situation and don’t know what to do and even don’t know the answer and whether or how God will jump in… You can mention your tough situation aloud followed by BUT GOD.
Place all your trust in our Lord God and He will manifest the BUT GOD!
What does “but God” mean in the Bible?
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In the Bible, the phrase “But God” is also used to show moments where God changes the course of events. It highlights how God steps in to make a difference when things seem impossible or hopeless. These two simple words remind us of God’s power to transform situations and bring hope.
Throughout Scripture, But God Bible verses show up when people are facing struggles, danger, or loss, and then God steps in to save, provide, or heal.
For example, in Ephesians 2:4-6, we were spiritually dead because of our sins, but God in His mercy made us alive through Christ Jesus. It’s a reminder that even when everything looks dark, God can turn it around and bring light.
And what about the death of our Lord Jesus Christ Himself? The Pharisees and the devil himself thought they’d won. BUT GOD had planned Jesus’s death to happen because He’d use it for the good of all of us. He knew he’d raise Him again on the third day. So that our sins would be forgiven and we would have eternal life.
In our own lives, the phrase “But God” gives us hope, reminding us that God is always able to step in and change things for the better.
But God in Hebrew
The phrase “But God” in Hebrew is translated as וְאֵל (v’El), which combines וְ (v’), meaning “and” or “but,” with אֵל (El), meaning “God.”
In the Bible, this phrase is like a turning point where things go from hopeless to miraculous because of God.
But God in Hebrew in the Bible, means:
- Divine Sovereignty: It highlights God’s power and dominion over human circumstances. Whenever a passage starts with But God, it shows how God can change the course of events in ways that we humans cannot foresee.
- Hope and Redemption: The phrase But God often precedes a transformative action of God. It’s a reminder that God can turn things around, no matter what.
- Contrast: The use of “But” creates a great contrast between our circumstances (e.g., despair, hopelessness, sin) and God’s nature (e.g., mercy, grace, power). This contrast really shows how amazing God’s interventions are.
- Covenantal Faithfulness: “But God” in Scripture reflects God’s faithfulness to His covenant with His people. It reassures us that God keeps His promises, even when things don’t seem to line up.
What is the first but God in the Bible?
With the Bible, we need to understand it is given by God through His Holy Spirit, but written down by humans. We use human languages. We use different translations.
Thus, there is not one first mention of But God in the Bible, as it depends on the version you use.
The first time we see the phrase “But God” in the Bible, depending on the translation:
- KJV – Genesis 20:3: “But God came to Abimelech in a dream by night, and said to him, Behold, thou art but a dead man, for the woman which thou hast taken; for she is a man’s wife.”
- NIV – Genesis 3:3: “But God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’”
- ESV – Genesis 3:3: “But God said, ‘You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the midst of the garden, neither shall you touch it, lest you die.’”
- NASB (1995) – Genesis 8:1: “But God remembered Noah and all the beasts and all the cattle that were with him in the ark; and God caused a wind to pass over the earth, and the water subsided.”
- NLT – Genesis 8:1: “But God remembered Noah and all the wild animals and livestock with him in the boat. He sent a wind to blow across the earth, and the floodwaters began to recede.”
What’s your BUT GOD moment?
Think a moment about it. let the Holy Spirit refresh your memory and see with God’s eyes.
What Bible verse says but God?
Throughout the Bible, the phrase “But God” appears in powerful moments where God steps in and changes the course of events. The phrase “But God” pops up in some of the most amazing moments, showing us how God steps in to change everything.
Whether we’re talking about protection, provision, or healing, these verses remind us that no matter how tough life gets, God has the final say. He turns things around in ways we can’t even imagine.
Below, you’ll find a list of But God Bible verses, grouped by themes, that show just how powerful and faithful God is in every situation.
Let these verses fill your heart with hope and encouragement! Our God is the God of hope! There is always hope—do not get discouraged. Don’t give up. God will make a way.
Use them whenever you just need that encouragement, that everything will be well. You can also meditate on those scriptures, so you have them ready in your heart whenever you need them.
Read the But God Bible verses aloud during your Christian morning routine, to start your day right, encouraged with the hope you have in God. The Lord’s unfailing love will sustain you.
God’s Provision and Protection
Genesis 8:1 (NIV)
“But God remembered Noah and all the wild animals and the livestock that were with him in the ark, and he sent a wind over the earth, and the waters receded.”
Genesis 50:20 (ESV)
“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.”
1 Samuel 23:14 (NIV)
“David stayed in the wilderness strongholds and in the hills of the Desert of Ziph. Day after day Saul searched for him, but God did not give David into his hands.”
Jonah 2:6 (NIV)
“To the roots of the mountains I sank down; the earth beneath barred me in forever. But you, Lord my God, brought my life up from the pit.”
God’s Strength in Weakness
Psalm 73:26 (NIV)
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
2 Corinthians 7:5-6 (NIV)
“For when we came into Macedonia, we had no rest, but we were harassed at every turn—conflicts on the outside, fears within. But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus.”
2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
God’s Mercy and Salvation
Romans 5:8 (NIV)
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Ephesians 2:4-5 (ESV)
“But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved.”
Acts 13:29-30 (NIV)
“When they had carried out all that was written about him, they took him down from the cross and laid him in a tomb. But God raised him from the dead.”
Titus 3:4-5 (NIV)
“But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy.”
God’s Control Over Life and Death
Acts 2:24 (NIV)
“But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.”
Philippians 2:27 (ESV)
“Indeed he was ill, near to death. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.”
1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV)
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
God’s Faithfulness and Justice
1 Corinthians 1:27 (NIV)
“But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.”
Acts 7:9 (ESV)
“And the patriarchs, jealous of Joseph, sold him into Egypt; but God was with him.”
Psalm 49:15 (ESV)
“But God will ransom my soul from the power of Sheol, for he will receive me.”
I hope you have been blessed with these scriptures. And even though these are many, there are a few more (LOL). How many but God verses in the Bible, you may ask?
The exact count of But God verses might change a bit depending on how phrases are translated or structured in different versions. Here’s how the number of “But God” verses compares across various translations:
- KJV: 43.
- NIV: 60.
- ESV: 43.
- NASB (1995): 41.
In my overview with But God Bible verses, I used more modern translations. But I know many of us also read the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible. You can of course use but God verses KJV!
What does the Bible say about but God in Ephesians?
When you study the book of Ephesians, we come across a powerful But God moment that reminds us of His deep love and mercy. In Ephesians 2:3-6 (ESV), it says:
“Among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.”
These two little words, “But God,” show how He completely changes our story, stepping in to give us life when we were spiritually dead. It’s such a beautiful reminder that God’s love reaches us even in our lowest moments.
Before this But God moment, the verses in Ephesians 2:4-5 talk about how we were lost in our sins, following the ways of the world, and far from God. We couldn’t save ourselves or fix our situation. But God—rich in mercy—didn’t leave us in that state. Instead, He showed His great love by sending Jesus to die for us and give us new life. That’s the Ephesians 2 4 5 meaning.
It’s such a comforting thought that God doesn’t just see us where we are; He steps in to rescue us and bring us closer to Him.
This passage, in Ephesians 2 verses 4 to 6, also reminds us that God’s grace is a gift. We didn’t earn it or deserve it. But God chose to love us, even when we were at our worst. He brought us from death to life through Jesus.
It’s a beautiful picture of how much He cares for us, and it encourages us to trust in His power to change our lives, no matter what we’re facing.
When we think about But God in Ephesians, it’s a powerful reminder that no situation is too far gone for God to step in. He takes us from darkness to light, from hopelessness to hope, and from sin to salvation. It is one of the beautidfl but God scriptures in the Bible.
Let this verse encourage you to lean into His mercy and love, knowing that God can turn any situation around for good! He has done so many times for me. He can and will do for you too.
Let’s close this section by looking at these but God scriptures KJV:
“But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”
What is Romans 5-8?
Romans 5 verse 8 is one of the clearest But God moments in the Bible.
It shows how God’s love breaks through, even when we were undeserving. Instead of leaving us in our sin, God stepped in with grace and mercy.
His love wasn’t just words; He showed it by sending Jesus to die for us when we were still lost in our sins.
It’s a reminder that no matter how far we’ve strayed, God always has a plan to bring us back to Him.
Here’s how Romans 5:8 is written in different Bible versions:
- NIV: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
- ESV: “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
- NLT: “But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.”
This but God scripture highlights that God didn’t wait for us to get things right—He stepped in while we were still broken, showing His love through Jesus’ sacrifice.
It’s a powerful “But God” moment that changes everything for us!
I used several Bible translations, as each translation shows a slightly different aspect. It’s a good idea to compare Bible versions when you focus on verses.
Now, let’s look at the verse in its context, Romans 5:6-8:
- NASB (1995): “For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
- NIV: “You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
- ESV: “For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die—but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
But God quotes
Life is full of twists and turns, where things seem hopeless or overwhelming. Yet, as children of God, we know that those two simple words—But God—can change everything.
When we face challenges, disappointments, or moments where we don’t see a way out, God steps in with His power, love, and perfect timing. These But God moments remind us that nothing is impossible for Him and that He can transform any situation for our good.
Below are some encouraging But God quotes that reflect how God moves in our lives. Whether you’re facing a tough season or just need a reminder of His faithfulness, let these quotes fill your heart with hope and confidence in what God can do!
Here are 36 great nobody but God quotes:
- “But God can turn around any situation in an instant.”
- “I was at the end of my rope, but God stepped in just in time.”
- “It looked like all was lost, but God had a better plan.”
- “You may have a plan, but God’s plan is always greater.”
- “But God, in His infinite mercy, changed the outcome.”
- “Things seemed impossible, but God specializes in the impossible.”
- “But God is faithful, even when we fall short.”
- “The world said no, but God said yes.”
- “I was broken and hopeless, but God restored me.”
- “But God always provides, even when we don’t see it coming.”
- “People may fail, but God never will.”
- “I couldn’t see a way out, but God opened doors I didn’t know existed.”
- “Life felt uncertain, but God remained my anchor.”
- “But God, in His perfect timing, made everything beautiful.”
- “Fear gripped me, but God filled me with peace.”
- “The storm was fierce, but God calmed it.”
- “But God’s grace is bigger than my greatest mistakes.”
- “I was lost in the darkness, but God led me to the light.”
- “But God made a way where there seemed to be no way.”
- “The enemy attacked, but God defended me.”
- “I thought it was over, but God gave me a new beginning.”
- “But God’s love reached me when I felt unlovable.”
- “I was overwhelmed, but God gave me strength.”
- “But God’s mercy is new every morning.”
- “But God lifted me when I couldn’t stand on my own.”
- “It looked impossible, but God made it possible.”
- “But God had bigger dreams for me than I had for myself.”
- “But God turned my mess into a message.”
- “I was empty, but God filled me with His presence.”
- “But God turned my pain into purpose.”
- “But God’s timing is always perfect, even when I don’t understand.”
- “I was sinking, but God became my lifeline.”
- “But God brought healing when doctors had no hope.”
- “But God used what was meant for harm to bring good.”
- “I was chained by fear, but God set me free.”
- “But God gave me peace when anxiety was all I knew.”
And if you want a visible reminder, what about a but God shirt?
What is the quote nothing but God?
The quote “Nothing but God” is a great reminder that, in the end, God is all we truly need.
It speaks to the idea that no matter what we face in life—whether it’s struggles, loss, or confusion—God is the ultimate answer. This phrase encourages us to rely completely on Him, trusting that He alone is sufficient to provide, guide, and sustain us through any situation.
Nothing but God points to the truth that everything else in life is temporary, but God’s love, power, and presence are eternal. It calls us to focus our hearts on Him, knowing that when everything else fades, we have God, and He is more than enough.
Now,… are there specific nothing but God quotes, you may ask (LOL).
While Nothing but God is often used to express complete dependence on God, it may not have a single, definitive attribution but is commonly echoed in Christian teachings and discussions about faith.
But, the quote Nothing but God typically refers to the statement made by the famous preacher Charles Spurgeon: “I have learned to kiss the waves that throw me against the Rock of Ages.”
In this context, the essence of Nothing but God stresses relying solely on God during life’s challenges, recognizing that He is our ultimate source of strength and hope.
And then there is this quote from Mother Teresa:
“When you have nothing left but God, you have more than enough to start over again.”
This statement is so deep and powerful—and true. When you are in that situation, it’s difficult, but God will definitely raise you up again. It means we are at the end of our rope. And it is then that we fully and completely rely on God.
BUT GOD.
Our God is the same since the beginning of time. What He did for the people of Israel in the Old Testament and the believers in the New Testament, He can and will do today. For you, for me, and for all other believers worldwide.
God doesn’t change. God’s firm foundation stands. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever more!
He is the God of the impossible.
No matter your situation, there will be a BUT GOD moment!
Take-Away best but God Bible verses and quotes
But God Bible verses and But God quotes are powerful reminders of God’s faithfulness and his ability to work in our lives. Here are some key takeaways from these encouraging verses:
- God can turn any situation around in an instant: Even when things seem hopeless, God has the power to bring about a sudden and miraculous change.
- God’s plans are greater: Our plans may fall short, but God’s plans are always better and more fulfilling. Trusting in His plan brings hope and confidence.
- God is faithful, even when we fall short: Despite our failures and shortcomings, God remains faithful and loving towards us. His grace is always available to us.
- God specializes in the impossible: When faced with seemingly impossible circumstances, God is able to do what no one else can. He can bring about solutions and breakthroughs that surpass human understanding.
- God’s timing is perfect: Even when we don’t understand why things are happening, we can trust that God’s timing is always perfect. He makes all things beautiful in His time.
- God’s love and mercy are constant: No matter how broken or lost we may feel, God’s love and mercy are never-ending. He is always there to restore, heal, and guide us.
- God is our source of strength and peace: In times of fear, uncertainty, and anxiety, God provides us with strength and the peace of God. He is our anchor and lifeline in the midst of life’s storms.
- God can use our pain and struggles for good: What may seem like a mess or a failure to us, God can turn into a powerful testimony or a message of hope. He can bring purpose out of our pain.
- When we have nothing left but God, we have more than enough: Even when we have lost everything, when we have God, we have everything we need to start over again. He is our sufficiency and our provider.
These but God Bible verses and quotes remind us to put our trust in God, knowing that He is capable of transforming our lives and situations. They inspire hope, confidence, and a deep reliance on God’s love and faithfulness.
Do you have a BUT GOD moment? Share your but god moment