Wellness Wednesday: Growing in Trust—The Foundation of Spiritual Health
As we continue exploring investing in your spiritual health in this new year through the lens of the GPS Spiritual Inventory, we first focus on our relationship with God—represented by the flow of water into a pipe. Over the next few weeks, we’ll examine three vital markers that strengthen this relationship: trust in God, communication with God, and perception of nearness to God. Together, these components provide a deeper understanding of what it means to cultivate a close and meaningful relationship with the God who saved us by His amazing grace in Christ.
Today, let’s begin with the cornerstone of our relationship with God: trust.
The Essence of Trust
Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship. It begins with a sense of safety and security, allowing us to believe someone cares for us and has our best interests at heart. This is as true in our human relationships as it is in our relationship with God.
The GPS Spiritual Inventory highlights three essential beliefs that underpin our trust in God:
- “I believe God cares about me.”
- “I believe God has a plan for my life.”
- “I fully trust that God will lead me through any trouble.”
If you hold these truths in your heart, you are well on your way to cultivating a deep and abiding trust in God. So, what about you?
- How well do you trust God?
- What is getting in the way of trusting Him more?
- What could help you deepen your trust in God this year?
When Trust is Challenged
For many, trusting God isn’t easy. Life’s pain and seeming unanswered prayers can create a sense of distance or even broken trust. Perhaps you prayed for healing for a loved one, only to lose them. Or you worked tirelessly, only to be let go from a job you depended on. Tragedies and injustice can make it difficult to see a God who cares, let alone one who is actively working for our good.
And yet, there are people whose lives appear filled with hardships, yet they trust and praise God with all their hearts. How is this possible? The ability to trust God, even amidst trials, is a profound mystery, but it is also the key to spiritual health. Trust allows us to forgive, love, and experience the peace and joy that flow from a secure relationship with God.
Finding Security in God
Trust grows when we feel safe, and this safety leads to a sense of security. Psalm 91:1-2 reminds us of this security:
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”
When we believe God is nearby, accessible, and attentive to our needs, we can feel secure in any circumstance. Psalm 46:1 echoes this assurance: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
Even if broken relationships or unmet needs marred our early experiences of trust, God invites us to form a secure attachment with Him. Through His Word and the promises fulfilled in Christ, we see a God who is unwaveringly faithful. Psalm 23 captures this beautifully: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want… Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
Growing in Trust Through God’s Word
Trust begins and grows as we spend time with God in His Word. Through Scripture, we come to know His character, experience His love, and see His faithfulness in action. As we root ourselves in His promises, His Spirit strengthens our faith, enabling us to trust Him no matter what life brings. If we ever wonder if God truly loves and cares for us, all we need to do is look to Jesus through the Word, for no matter how many of God’s promises are, they find their “yes” in Jesus. (2 Corinthians 1:20)
The Importance of Community in Growing Trust
Building trust in God is not a solo journey. We need trusted individuals to walk alongside us as we grow in our relationship with Him. Just as God designed us to live in community, He often works through others to encourage, challenge, and support us in our faith. Don’t hesitate to seek out those who can support you in your spiritual growth. Whether it’s a small group, a spiritual mentor, a prayer partner, or a coach, having others by your side can make all the difference in your journey toward deeper trust in God.
Take the Next Step
Are you ready to deepen your trust in God and invest in your spiritual health? The GPS Spiritual Inventory is a powerful tool to help you reflect on your relationship with God and identify areas for growth.
Click the link below to take the assessment and begin your journey toward greater spiritual health. Use the code “tguse” to take the inventory free of charge. Afterward, contact me to schedule a complimentary coaching session to debrief your results.
Take the GPS Spiritual Inventory
Let’s make 2025 a year of spiritual growth and transformation as we learn to trust in God’s unfailing love.
