How Can I trust God?

We often hear these buzz words - "Trust in God". We hear it sermons and most of all we hear it from well-wishers when we are in some trouble or a possible rock bottom. Its even printed on currency as - "In God we Trust". 

It's easy to say; easy to hear; but very difficult to listen and do. Often this line becomes "jargon".

So how can we actually develop trust in God?

First let's get it clear: Building trust is an ongoing process. It's not overnight and instantaneous. It requires faith, patience, and a willingness to surrender control. It's about believing in His plan and timing, even when life is uncertain. Here are a few things we can do:

Get to Know God

Every time I read the Bible, I learn something new about God. Charles Spurgeon, a renowned preacher, once said, "Nobody ever outgrows Scripture; the book widens and deepens with our years." This emphasizes the idea that the Bible is an ever-deepening source of wisdom and revelation. The Bible is God's Word and the ultimate source of wisdom and guidance. Reading and meditating on scripture helps you understand His promises and character. Verses like Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding," provide reassurance and encouragement. Furthermore, sharing your hopes, dreams and problems is essential. Regular communication with God through prayer is essential. Share your thoughts, feelings, and concerns with Him. Prayer is not just about asking for help but also about building a connection and seeking His presence. How many times have we prayed - "Hi God, how are you today?"

Understand that trusting God is a journey. Embrace the process and be patient with yourself as you grow in faith.

Learn to recognize God’s Faithfulness- Recall times when God has been faithful and answered your prayers. Reflecting on past blessings can strengthen your trust in His ability to provide and guide you. Also get inspired by other's stories and testimonies.

Surrender Control - again, easier said than done. Trusting God involves surrendering control and letting go. This can be challenging, especially when facing difficult situations, but it's a crucial step in developing trust.

Recognize FEAR for what it is (FALSE EVIDENCE APPEARING REAL. Remember, Satan is a deceiver). Let Faith replace fear. Faith is hope and belief that God will do us no harm. He wishes the best for us. Find His assurances in His word. Find His promises. Without knowing what He can and will do, how can anyone build trust and faith?

Trust often involves waiting for God's timing, which may not align with our own. Patience is key to trusting that God is working behind the scenes and that His timing is perfect.

Practice Inclusive Decision making - every day, every minute we are taking a decision. The choice is do we decide with our own will or God's? Involve God in all your decisions. He will guide through His word and through various circumstances, opportunities and/or failures. Yes, failures too guide us on the right track.

Finally - and we have said this before - cultivate an attitude of gratitude. Thankfulness helps shift your focus from what you lack to what you have, deepening your trust in God's provision. Become thankful and dependable. Become trustworthy to God as well. Do what you promise to do or do not make any promises. For example, we may recite the Lord's Prayer every day, but do we do what we say we will do? 

As we become trustworthy to God, we will build our own trust as well.