Myth and Truth about Trust

by Charleen Burghardt

We often think that if we could trust God more, we would not worry. So, we are hard on ourselves for not having more faith. If only we had more confidence in God. Unfortunately, we ask questions without finding answers when life hits us with disappointments, unexpected circumstances, or loss. We say to ourselves if only we had more trust and confidence in God, then we would not struggle with doubt.

If only I had more faith

We put expectations on ourselves that are not realistic. For example, we think others expect us to get through a loss of a loved one, get over it, and look at the bright side. Grief does not work that way. Or we anticipate quickly getting over a considerable disappointment. Our mood should be happy because we should be trusting. Is that realistic? When illness hits us, we expect ourselves to be free of concerns when we are trying to process it. Is that expecting too much of ourselves?

We are human with emotions that require time to process grief, disappointment, and tragedy.

But we equate happiness or joy with trusting God. Is that trust?

What is trust?

Here is a myth and a truth I gained from Bonnie Gray in her book, Breathe:21 Days to Stress Less: 21 Days to Stress Less and Transform Chaos to Calm.

Myth: Trust God, and you’ll have peace and joy. If you don’t have peace or joy, you’re not trusting God enough.

We can debunk that myth.

Truth: Emotional honesty is an intimate act of trusting God with our genuine self instead of hiding how we feel or trying to do or be more.

It takes faith to be honest and to let God know our authentic selves. Telling God our emotions is an act of trust. As we open up to God, he meets us.

Maybe part of trusting is not having all the answers or explanations. Perhaps part of trusting is going to God with questions. Trust is a process, not a destination. As we grow, our trust enlarges.

God blesses those whose hearts are pure,
    for they will see God. Matthew 5:8 (NLT)

The above verse is from the words of Jesus from the Beatitudes. This verse reassures me God honors someone who desires a relationship with him. A pure heart is a singleness of heart toward God, being transparent, and wishing to please God. With this verse comes two promises:

1. God blesses those whose heart is pure
2. Those who have a pure heart will see God

So, come to God with questions and a desire to have a closer relationship with Jesus. If it is difficult to express your emotions to God, it is okay. But it is a start if you want to. God honors our “want to.”

God honors “want to.”

I am so glad God honors my wanting to have a closer relationship with Jesus. Trusting is a daily conversation with God. Gradually, we give more and more of ourselves in surrender. It takes practice and intentionality. It is a process.

God meets us when we open up with our thoughts and feelings. Then, God comes close and blesses.

Prayer:

Dear Lovely and Compassionate God,

I struggle with trusting you, but I honestly desire a closer relationship with you. My words get jumbled when I try to express my emotions and I have so many questions. Meet me despite my fumbling. Thank you that you bless those who have a pure heart. Amen

Jesus said, “God blesses those whose hearts are pure,
    for they will see God.”

I would love to hear your comments. Many times we struggle with expectations of ourselves. “If only…”

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