Trust Precedes Faith
The Bible, particularly in passages like Philippians 4:4-7, addresses the human tendency to struggle with trust, especially in the context of faith. This struggle often stems from our limited understanding of God's ways, our fear of the unknown, and our natural inclination to seek control over our circumstances.
We cannot have faith in God and His provisions for our lives because we don’t fully trust God. A lack of trust in God places the onus for outcomes back on us. We know we are fallible and prone to mistakes, so we generate anxiety about the future. Anxiety is a destabilizing force in our thinking. It is a cyclical way of thinking such that anxiety provokes more significant anxiety, and if done enough, it forms a neural pathway in our thinking that is unhealthy and very difficult to break.
The desired outcome is to build trust in God, having faith that He will work out our future in a way that best suits our well-being as His children. However, the history of our thinking makes it difficult to transition from distrust of God to trust in God.
There are primarily three reasons we default to distrust:
Limited Understanding: Humans, with their finite minds, often find it challenging to comprehend the infinite nature of God. His ways may seem mysterious or even contradictory to our human logic. This can lead to doubt and uncertainty.
Fear of the Unknown: The future is uncertain, and humans naturally fear the unknown. We may question God's providence or goodness when faced with challenges or uncertainties.
Desire for Control: Humans have a deep-seated passion for control over their lives. We often want to understand why things happen and to have a sense of agency. When we feel powerless or out of control, trusting a higher power can be difficult.
Philippians 4:4-7 offers a counterbalance to these tendencies:
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
This verse encourages us to trust God even when we don't fully understand His plans. It reminds us that prayer is a powerful tool for connecting with God and finding peace.
Trusting God is a journey that involves growing faith, understanding, and experience. It's a decision to rely on His character, promises, and sovereignty, even when life doesn't make sense.
Here are some key factors that contribute to trusting God:
1. Understanding God's Character:
God is good and loving: "The Lord is good to all, and His tender mercies are over all His works." (Psalm 145:9)
God is faithful: "The Lord is faithful to all His promises and loving toward all His works." (Psalm 145:13)
God is sovereign: "The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and His kingdom rules over all." (Psalm 103:19)
2. Experiencing God's Faithfulness:
Personal encounters: As you spend time with God in prayer, Bible study, and worship, you'll experience His presence and faithfulness.
Witnessing God's work: Seeing God's hand in the lives of others can strengthen your trust in Him.
3. Studying God's Word:
Learning about God's promises: The Bible contains promises that can encourage and strengthen your faith.
Understanding God's plan: Studying the Bible can help you see the bigger picture of God's plan for your life.
4. Surrendering to God's Will:
Letting go of control: Trusting God involves letting go of your plans and trusting in His.
Seeking His guidance: Prayer and Bible study can help you discern God's will for your life.
5. Building a Community of Faith:
Surrounding yourself with believers: Spending time with other Christians can provide support, encouragement, and accountability.
Trusting God is a journey that requires time to grow spiritually. Sometimes, your faith is tested, but by focusing on God's character, promises, and faithfulness, you can develop a deep and abiding trust in Him.