Everyone has different levels and styles of trust. For example, a person may trust a family member completely even though no other family members or outsiders are willing to open up to that person.
It can be difficult to trust if you've been hurt—as a child, in a romantic relationship or in a situation that seemed "out of the blue." Rejection, betrayal or abuse are never easy to deal with.
But sometimes we build such a strong wall around ourselves that we miss opportunities to develop wonderful, healthy and lasting relationships with loved ones, friends and colleagues. Answer true or false to the statements below to discover what role mistrust may be playing in your life.
1. I keep my problems to myself and don’t tell others.
2. I don't like to depend on others; they almost always let me down.
3. It’s too risky to reveal my weaknesses to my spouse.
4. I tend to expect the worst from people; that way, I won't be disappointed.
5. People are basically "in it" for themselves. There's no such thing as people doing things for others out of the goodness of their heart.
6. I don't rely on anyone other than myself.
7. I assume my loved one will cheat on me; that's why I have to stay observant.
8. I feel insecure in unknown situations.
9. I make no promises and I don’t ask for them.
10. I've been betrayed before; there's no way I'm letting that happen again.
11. People and situations are never predictable, so it's important to keep my guard up.
12. When it comes to making things happen, I'm on my own; it's all up to me.
13. I know that I am the only one truly committed to my success in life or business.
14. Loyalty never lasts.
15. You might be able to trust people when times are good, but forget it when things become challenging.
16. When my partner isn't around, I feel anxious, worried, even paranoid.
17. When someone becomes interested in me, I feel suspicious.
18. There's no one with whom I feel I can completely be myself.
If you answered true to five or more of the statements, you may want to explore your concerns around trusting others. Remember: trust must be earned. But if you don't give others a chance to earn that trust, you may be missing out on fulfilling relationships and a more supported life.
Do you live in fear or in faith? Now might be a good time to find out what you're afraid of and where this story comes from. Obviously, if you cannot trust others, it may be difficult for you to trust God, rely on Him, and lean on Him from the bottom of your heart; and vice versa. Do you have trust difficulties?
When you read, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6), do you feel disbelief, worry, relief or something else? Are you willing to pray to God to change your habit of “unbelief”?
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this:” (Psalm 37:5) because "blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord; whose confidence is in Him” (Jeremiah 17:7)
Author's content used with permission, © Claire Communications
