Discovery Bible Study (DBS): Scripture List and Questions for People Living in War and Conflict

War and conflict bring immense pain, uncertainty, and fear. For those living in such circumstances, the Bible offers hope, peace, and the assurance of God’s presence. A Discovery Bible Study (DBS) focused on these themes can provide encouragement and strength during trying times. Below is a scripture list tailored for people experiencing war and conflict, along with DBS questions to guide the study.


God’s Presence in Troubled Times

  1. Psalm 23:1-4 – "The Lord is my shepherd... even though I walk through the darkest valley."
  2. Isaiah 41:10 – "Do not fear, for I am with you."
  3. Deuteronomy 31:8 – "The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you."
  4. Matthew 28:20 – "I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
  5. Psalm 46:1-3 – "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."

Peace Amid Chaos

  1. John 14:27 – "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you."
  2. Philippians 4:6-7 – "Do not be anxious about anything... the peace of God... will guard your hearts."
  3. Isaiah 26:3 – "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast."
  4. Colossians 3:15 – "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts."
  5. 2 Thessalonians 3:16 – "May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times."

God’s Protection and Strength

  1. Psalm 91:1-6 – "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty."
  2. Exodus 14:13-14 – "The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still."
  3. Proverbs 18:10 – "The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."
  4. Isaiah 40:29-31 – "He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak."
  5. 2 Samuel 22:2-4 – "The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer."

Hope for the Future

  1. Jeremiah 29:11 – "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord."
  2. Romans 8:28 – "In all things God works for the good of those who love him."
  3. Revelation 21:4 – "He will wipe every tear from their eyes."
  4. Isaiah 2:4 – "They will beat their swords into plowshares."
  5. Lamentations 3:22-23 – "Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed."

Trusting God in Uncertainty

  1. Proverbs 3:5-6 – "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding."
  2. Psalm 37:5-7 – "Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him."
  3. Habakkuk 3:17-19 – "Yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will be joyful in God my Savior."
  4. Matthew 6:25-34 – "Do not worry about your life... seek first his kingdom and his righteousness."
  5. Psalm 34:17-19 – "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them."

Encouragement to Persevere

  1. James 1:2-4 – "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials."
  2. 2 Corinthians 4:8-10 – "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed."
  3. Hebrews 12:1-3 – "Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."

God’s Vindication and Justice

   29. Psalm 37:5-6

 – God promises to uphold the righteous and bring justice.

   30. Isaiah 61:8 – 

commitment to justice ensures that wrongdoing will not prevail.
   31. Romans 12:19 – trust God to administer justice instead of seeking personal revenge.

Loving and Forgiving Enemies

  32. Matthew 5:43-45 –  loving and praying for those who oppose us.

  33. Luke 6:27-28 – 

responding to hostility with kindness, embodying His grace in action.


DBS Questions

Use these questions to guide the discussion and help participants connect Scripture to their experiences:

  1. What does this passage teach us about God?

    • Reflect on God’s character, promises, and actions in the passage.

  2. What does this passage teach us about people?

    • Identify human emotions, struggles, or responses that relate to the participants' current situation.

  3. How does this passage speak to your situation?

    • Discuss how the Scripture provides comfort, encouragement, or guidance amid conflict.

  4. What will you do in response to this passage?

    • Encourage participants to apply the passage practically, such as praying for peace, trusting God, or extending forgiveness.

  5. Who can you share this message with?

    • Focus on spreading hope and encouragement to others affected by the conflict.

Tips for DBS in Conflict Zones

  1. Keep it simple and adaptable: Participants may be emotionally overwhelmed, so avoid heavy theological discussions.
  2. Create a safe space: Ensure everyone feels free to share without fear of judgment.
  3. Focus on hope and action: Highlight passages that inspire faith and practical steps toward peace and trust in God.
  4. Pray together: Dedicate time for communal prayer for peace, protection, and healing.