The word trust has captured my attention in the past week. It first appeared in 1 John 4:4 – “We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love.” Then it showed up in Proverbs 29:25 – “Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the Lord means safety.” It stepped into my path like a flagger on a road construction site, causing me to slow down and pay attention to its message.
Stop! Pay attention!
I’m in a situation that’s calling me to trust God big-time—I’m planning and hosting a winter weekend getaway for business women in early February. Registrations are coming in, but so are the unending what-ifs. Figures. I truly believe this event is God-breathed, but the ol’ guy with a pitchfork is going to do everything possible to stop it from happening. And so, these are some of the thoughts that dawdle in my head:
What if the weather conditions are lousy that weekend? What if road conditions are poor? What if we don’t meet our budget? What if I inadvertently overlook a critical element of the weekend? What if my workshops don’t hit the mark?
This experience is proving to be a great opportunity to implement what I teach about moving beyond fear. One of the things I stress when I speak to groups is that of knowing and focusing on the truth of God’s Word rather than on the what-ifs. The what-ifs spiral us into negative thinking and fear, but the truth bolsters our courage and enables us to move forward even when we can’t see where the next step will land.
What does the truth tell me as the women’s retreat draws closer day by day? It says God loves me. I’m His child. I’m safe in His care. He has everything under His loving control.
The truth also says that fearing people is a trap. In my case, I needn’t allow my desire to make a good impression on my retreat attendees drive my plans and preparations. Rather, I need to do what God says and I will find my security and safety in Him.
Yep, I’ve appreciated seeing the word trust in my face. It’s caused me to take a deep, refreshing breath and given me the courage and confidence to keep moving forward. Can I trust God with the details of the upcoming weekend? Absolutely. Can you trust Him with the details of your life? Yes. We can trust and not be afraid because He is who He says He is.
Question: Can you think of another Scripture that contains the word trust? If so, please feel free to post it, okay? I invite you to tell how it applies to you, too.
One I learned with my kids from “G.T. and the Halo Express” – sadly no longer available – is “Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation.” Isaiah 12:2.
Be blessed, Grace.
I remember that song, too!