How to Trust God and Stop Obsessing Over the Details

Do I really trust God?

I used to think that I trusted God. But a few days ago, my Bible devotional asked if there were any areas of my life where I felt my success or failure rested on me and my efforts.

It suggested that I likely didn’t trust God in those areas, since I was leaning on my own abilities rather than His. And it got me thinking.

I count on myself for any research or planning that my family needs.

For example, when we decided to move to San Antonio a few years ago, I constantly (and, let’s be honest, obsessively) searched for houses. Non-stop. I mean…isn’t that the best way to get things done?!

I researched schools and neighborhoods, compared the smallest details, scheduled viewings, and lamented when we drove all the way from Austin to San Antonio with our baby only to learn the house we wanted to see had sold several days prior.

The realtor didn’t tell us that because she wanted the opportunity to show us other, different houses. Hours and hours of my own effort resulted in a long, wasted trip.

It’s hard to trust God when you’re Type A.

In this and other areas, I tend to take control and plan all. the. things. I have a Type A personality and like – no, need – to check things off my to-do list.

It’s not that I don’t consider God’s part in it all. But I tend to give Him the role of a supportive and influential family member.

I do what I want to do, approaching situations in whatever I personally believe is the best way. And then I pray, “God, please guide me and show us favor.”

Now that’s not a terrible plan! And I do believe that God has lead me and blessed us despite my controlling tendencies.

But it brings up the deeper question, who do I trust? In whom am I placing my faith?

The Foundation of Trust in God

Trusting God isn’t always straightforward, particularly during challenging times.

It begins with acknowledging the character of God. The foundation of your trust is anchored in understanding who God is and how He relates to you.

• God’s Word: Your trust in God is strengthened by reading and meditating on God’s Word. Scriptures reveal the nature of God and His unwavering commitment to you. These teachings can serve as a source of hope and comfort.
• God’s Promises: Historical accounts in the Bible show time and again that God’s promises are fulfilled. Believing that His words are true can open your heart to trust in His plans. Remember Psalms 46:1: God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble..
• God of Hope: Trusting in God means looking beyond present hard times to the hope He provides. This hope is not fleeting but is deeply rooted in the belief that God is in control and works all things for your good.

The good news is that by reflecting on these truths, your trust in God is intended to grow deeper.

It is an active choice to rely on Him, even when circumstances challenge your faith. Embrace this process with patience and an open heart, allowing your relationship with the Lord to be your steadfast support.

God’s Character and Trustworthiness

When considering the vastness of God’s character, it is crucial to reflect on the attributes that establish His trustworthiness. 

God’s love, omnipresent and unconditional, serves as a testament to His unwavering nature. You can trust in this love because it’s not dictated by circumstance or human action.

• True in Character: God embodies truth, meaning there is no falsehood in His being. Whenever you read or hear about the name of the Lord, it’s a name associated with reliability and faithfulness.
• Unchanging: If you seek stability, look to God, often referred to as your Heavenly Father. His character does not shift with the changing tides of human culture or emotion. Because He is immutable, your faith is built on a firm foundation.
• Holy: Sin plays no role in God’s character. His holiness is pure and sets a perfect example for righteousness. His actions and words are aligned, giving you a clear and consistent picture of His divine nature.

Remember, the trustworthiness of God is not just an abstract concept; it’s reflected in everyday experiences and confirmed through His good promises.

By considering attributes of God that prove He is trustworthy, and Scripture that speaks of His unfailing nature, you can find comfort and assurance. Trust in Him, and watch as your own understanding of His character grows, deepening your faith in the process.

Surrendering to God’s Plan

In your spiritual journey, surrendering to God’s plan is about accepting that your path may not always align with your own understanding. It’s embracing trust over control, allowing the power of the Holy Spirit to guide you toward peace and purpose.

Overcoming the Fear of Man

The road to trusting God often begins with overcoming the fear of man—the anxiety about others’ opinions that can hinder your spiritual progress.

Remember, God’s plan is designed for your growth, not for the approval of others. It’s important to prioritize divine wisdom over human affirmation, understanding that perfect peace comes from faith, not from external validation.

Embracing Divine Timing

Patience is key when embracing divine timing.

God’s timeline may seem slow or unintelligible from a human perspective. But it’s essential to trust that every moment is purposefully orchestrated.

Encounter each day with an open heart and expectant faith, knowing that God is at work, aligning the intricate details of your life with His grand design.

Biblical Insights on Trusting God

In your spiritual journey, the Bible offers profound guidance on the nature of faith and reliance on God. Here, you’ll uncover lessons from the teachings of Christ Jesus, and explore key Bible verses that shed light on what it means to trust God fully.

Lessons from Christ Jesus

Christ Jesus, the Son of Man, embodied perfect trust in the Heavenly Father throughout His life on earth, providing a perfect model for us to emulate.

For example, during a tempest on the Sea of Galilee, Jesus remained asleep in complete peace, showcasing His unwavering trust in God’s protection (Mark 4:35-41). His serene composure illustrates that we, too, can rest in the assurance of God’s care amidst life’s figurative storms.

Moreover, Christ Jesus’ prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane – “not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42) – emphasizes the surrender of the personal desires of your heart to God’s greater plan. It signals that trusting God involves the humility and confidence to submit your will to the Lord’s design.

Bible Verses on Trusting God

Lots and lots of Bible verses encourage us to trust in God’s steadfastness. Here’s a selection to reflect upon:

• Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” These Bible verses capture the essence of trust, urging you to seek God’s wisdom above your own.
• Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” These words invite you to find peace in God’s omnipresence and sovereignty, a reminder to pause and recognize His control over all circumstances.
• Matthew 6:25-34: In this passage, Jesus Christ counsels against anxiety about daily needs, reassuring you that God knows what you need and will provide. The verse “seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” highlights the priority of spiritual trust over worldly concerns.
• Deuteronomy 8:3: And he humbled you and let you hunger and fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.
• Hebrews 11:9:  By faith he went to live in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise.
• Philippians 3:20: But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
• 2 Corinthians 5:7: For we walk by faith, not by sight.
• Isaiah 55:9: As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
• Matthew 28:20b: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
• Hebrews 13:5: Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”
• Philippians 4:6-7: Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
• 1 Peter 5:7: Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

By meditating on these passages and others, you gain assurance that God’s Word is a dependable source of comfort and guidance. Trusting God isn’t merely an emotional response but a deliberate choice to rely on Jesus Christ, His good promises, and the steadfast character of God.

Experiencing Peace Through Trust

In your journey of faith, trusting in God can lead to profound peace, especially when navigating turbulent phases of life. This trust offers you not just serenity, but the assurance that you’re never alone, no matter the circumstances.

Finding Peace in Hard Times

During challenging periods, it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed. However, remember that the peace of God transcends your own understanding and can guard your heart and mind.

When the waves of life are rough, focusing on His good promises can anchor you, providing a sense of calm in the chaos. Realigning your trust in God can transform your perspective on these troubles, offering a peace that is steadfast and reassuring.

• Recognize: Acknowledge that hard times are a part of life.
• Reflect: Think about past instances where faith has guided you through struggles.
• Reaffirm: Renew your trust in God’s wisdom and timing.

The Assurance of God’s Presence

Feeling God’s presence brings a unique form of perfect peace.

In the ‘day of trouble,’ the knowledge that God is with you can give you the strength to endure. By cultivating a deep trust in His omnipresence, you open yourself up to experiencing comfort and peace that only comes from knowing you are not facing difficulties alone.

• Embrace stillness: Take moments to be still and know that God is with you.
• Practice mindfulness: Stay aware of God’s presence in every situation.
• Seek communion: Engage in prayer and spiritual community for mutual support.

Dealing with Life’s Challenges

When life presents obstacles, it’s essential to handle them with resilience and faith.

Handling Bad News

When bad things happen, it can feel like a weight on your shoulders.

Your first reaction might be shock or disbelief, but remember, it’s important to pause and breathe. Take a moment to digest the news and call on the name of the Lord.

Reflect on past challenges you’ve overcome as a reminder that you have the fortitude to face this too. For spiritual strength, some people turn to biblical truths as a reminder of their faith’s grounding in adversity.

Perseverance in the Year of Drought

In times that metaphorically feel like a drought in your life, when resources and hope seem scarce, perseverance is crucial.

Maintaining a consistent routine can provide structure and a sense of normalcy in your daily life. Keep up with your positive habits: whether it’s a morning walk, reading, or prayer, these actions can offer a reprieve from stress.

• Stay Connected: Don’t isolate. Reach out to supportive friends or family.
• Self-Care: Pay attention to your physical and emotional needs.
• Look Ahead: Plan for the future to foster hope.

Encouragement for Tough Times

In tough times, encouragement can come from remembering that challenges are usually temporary. Draw from the knowledge that hard times can lead to growth and resilience.

Lean into your faith, and trust that there’s a purpose or lesson in every situation. Keep affirmations close to you, like motivational quotes or Bible verses that instill courage, such as the reassurance found in passages that speak to life’s unfixed nature and God’s steadfastness.

Drawing Strength from the Holy Spirit

When you feel weakened by life’s challenges, you can find an unwavering source of strength in the Holy Spirit.

The power of the Holy Spirit is a profound force that offers comfort and aid to you in times of need. Unlike relying solely on your own strength, which may falter, tapping into this divine power can renew your energy and resilience.

• Personal Endeavors: Align your efforts with God’s will, and you’ll discover that the Holy Spirit infuses you with the vigor to carry out tasks beyond your natural capability.
• Spiritual Sustenance: Just as food nourishes your body, God’s promises can fortify your spirit. When you internalize these good promises, they become a wellspring of courage in your life.
• Trust in God: As you place your trust in God, you allow the Holy Spirit to do good work within you, offering you guidance and eternal life assurance.

Remember, the path to drawing strength from the Holy Spirit entails inviting God’s presence into your daily walk. It’s a process of spiritual surrender, where you acknowledge that true strength comes not from your might but from God’s higher power.

Here is what you can actively do to harness this strength:

• Prayer: Spend time in prayer, calling on the name of the Lord and asking the Holy Spirit to fill you with power and wisdom.
• Meditation: Reflect on scriptures about the Holy Spirit to deepen your own understanding and connection.
• Obedience: Observe God’s teachings, which allows the Holy Spirit to move freely in your life.

Embrace the journey of spiritual growth as you learn to rely more on the Holy Spirit’s presence for your strength.

The Transformative Power of Faith

Faith in God has a profound impact on your life, molding your character and guiding your actions toward greater righteousness and purposeful, good work.

Growing in Righteousness

When you choose to trust God, it’s not just about waiting for good things to come your way; it’s about an active pursuit of righteousness.

You may encounter bad news or challenging situations, but your faith will become a catalyst for growth. Bearing in mind the promises that you are held by the righteous right hand of God, you’ll find yourself empowered to walk in alignment with the desires of your heart that are pleasing to Him.

• Trust: Understand that God is with you even in adversity.
• Action: Strive to live a life that reflects your faith.

The Journey Toward Good Work

Our faith isn’t passive; it’s a journey involving constant effort and dedication toward doing God’s good work. And we can plan on it taking a long time, possibly even a lifetime, to get right!

This dedication entails aligning your talents and passions with actions that not only benefit you but also serve others and honor God. It’s about making tangible the intangible conviction that rests within your heart.

• Awareness: Recognize the opportunities around you to enact your faith.
• Initiative: Take active steps to achieve the desires of your heart through your work.

Living Under God’s Protection

When you seek refuge in the shelter of the Most High, you’re placing yourself under a canopy of care that transcends human understanding. It’s like being nestled in an impregnable fortress, where the Almighty is your guard and guide.

• Meditate on Psalm 91:1-16 which describes the security found in God’s presence.
• “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust” is not just poetic language—it’s an affirmation of faith and assurance.

We’re all undoubtedly living in a world full of challenges and uncertainties. Yet, in these moments, remember to look up and proclaim, “O Lord, you are my refuge!” 

By acknowledging this, you are not dismissing the dangers around you but choosing to focus on the protection above you.

It’s important to remember that trust is not a passive action; it demands your active engagement. Putting your trust in God requires:

1. Acknowledgment of your need for protection.
2. Belief that He is capable of providing it.
3. Acceptance of His provision, even when it’s beyond your comprehension.

Remember to uphold this trust in both calm and stormy weathers of life. Your path may be fraught with unknowns, but as you walk in faith, the assurance of God’s protection is like a beacon that guides and comforts you, reminding you that you are never alone.

When we trust God, He can release His grace.

Moving was so stressful.

My husband and I worried about where we would live in San Antonio, when we should put our Austin house up for sale, what it would sell for, and where we would live in the meantime if the timing didn’t line up. So we prayed.

And with zero help from me, God lead us to an incredible new home that met all of our needs but wouldn’t be ready for five months.

Then He provided us with a seller that offered a lease-back option until our new home was ready for move-in, with a flexible move date and reasonable rent. In fact, He provided us with three different, very generous offers, within two days of our house being on the market.

All of my worrying and planning for such a long time had absolutely no effect on that situation. Not a single good thing resulted from my anxiety and resulting controlling behavior.

But the God of hope coordinated 105 moving parts to line them all up perfectly, and created a situation that was far better than we could have ever imagined.

The same devotional that questioned my faith proposed that God’s grace, His ability to work things together better than we ever could, can only be released within your faith.

He’s not going to butt in and rip the laptop from my hands as I’m searching for houses. But He’ll gladly work things together if I can learn to stop controlling everything and just trust Him.

Matthew 6:26-29 (NLT) reminds us, “Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are.”

So take a few moments to consider the different areas of your life and ask yourself if you’re placing your faith in yourself and your abilities, or in God.

God doesn’t want us to worry or to feel the weight of the world on our shoulders. He’s called us to bring everything to Him in prayer, stop obsessing over the details, and trust Him with our lives.

In what area can you trust God today?

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Trust God

In this section, you’ll find guidance on embracing faith, biblical wisdom for tough times, and practical steps to enhance your reliance on God when bad things happen or the road ahead seems uncertain.

What does it mean to fully rely on God in times of uncertainty?

Relying on God means handing over your worries and expectations to Him, and trusting in His wisdom and timing rather than your own. It involves acknowledging Him in all your ways, and expecting that He will guide you through the unknown.

How can one strengthen their faith and trust in God during hard times?

The best way to strengthen your faith in God is to engage with God’s word, surround yourself with a faith-building community, and be persistent in prayer. Learning about God’s character and recalling His faithfulness in past situations also helps fortify trust in Him.

Can you share some Bible passages that illustrate the blessings of placing our trust in God?

Loads of Bible verses promise blessings for those who trust in the Lord. Proverbs 3:5-6, for example, offers a powerful reminder that trusting the God of hope leads to His guidance in every aspect of life.

How can I experience the perfect peace of God?

Experiencing the perfect peace of God often involves a combination of faith, trust, and focus.

According to Isaiah 26:3, perfect peace comes from having one’s mind stayed on the God of hope, trusting in Him. It is also described as a state of wholeness or completeness, which can be experienced by focusing on Jesus and is guaranteed when we do so.

This perfect peace is not dependent on external circumstances but is a calm, settled, gentle security that comes from a relationship with Jesus Christ. To maintain this peace, it’s important to let go of one’s own understanding and trust in God’s promises and truths. Studying and knowing God’s Word can also help to keep one’s mind focused and in perfect peace.

How does trusting God change our perspective on life’s challenges?

Trusting God allows you to see challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities for growth and reliance on God’s strength. It advocates a joy that is not conditioned on circumstances.

What are some steps one can take to deepen their trust in God’s plan?

Deepening your trust in God’s plan involves regular study and reflection on Scriptures, embracing community support, and practicing surrender through prayer. Consistent reminders of His sovereignty help you to embrace the unknown with confidence.

How do the Scriptures address the importance and benefits of trusting God with our lives?

Scriptures emphasize trusting the God of hope as foundational to a stable life. For example, passages within Bible Gateway’s collection of Bible verses about trust underline that a life built on trust in God can withstand the trials of the world.

Does God make any great promises to those who trust Him?

Yes, God makes several promises in the Bible to those who place their trust in Him.

For instance, Scripture often speaks of God providing direction and guidance to those who trust Him, as well as peace that surpasses understanding. In Proverbs 3:5-6, it’s promised that when you trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding, He will make your paths straight.

Additionally, Psalm 84:11 suggests that God will give grace and glory and will not withhold any good thing from those who walk uprightly, indicating blessings and favor for the faithful.

Moreover, the Bible assures believers that God will work all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose, as found in Romans 8:28. This promise encapsulates the idea that, even in hard times, God’s providence is at work for the ultimate benefit of His followers.

Trust in God is also associated with spiritual prosperity, as mentioned in Proverbs 28:25-26, which speaks to the idea of being enriched beyond material wealth and into the realms of spiritual depth and contentment.

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