Topical Encyclopedia Definition and ImportanceTrust, in the biblical context, is a profound reliance on God, characterized by faith, confidence, and hope in His promises and character. It is a central theme throughout Scripture, emphasizing the believer's dependence on God rather than on human strength or wisdom. Trust in God is portrayed as a safeguard against spiritual desolation, a state of emptiness or ruin that can occur when one is disconnected from the divine source of life and strength. Biblical Foundations The Bible consistently highlights the importance of trust in God as a means of protection and provision. In the Old Testament, trust is often linked with deliverance and security. For instance, in Psalm 37:5, the psalmist encourages believers to "Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it." This verse underscores the assurance that God will act on behalf of those who place their trust in Him. Proverbs 3:5-6 further instructs, "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." This passage highlights the futility of relying on human understanding and the necessity of acknowledging God in all aspects of life to avoid the desolation that comes from misguided decisions. Trust as a Refuge The imagery of God as a refuge is prevalent in Scripture, illustrating how trust in Him provides safety and protection. Psalm 46:1 declares, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble." This assurance of God's presence and protection is a recurring theme, offering comfort and security to those who trust in Him. Isaiah 26:3-4 promises peace to those who trust in God: "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD Himself, is the Rock eternal." Here, trust is associated with stability and peace, contrasting with the desolation that comes from instability and fear. Trust and Deliverance from Desolation The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals and nations delivered from desolation through trust in God. One notable example is the account of King Hezekiah, who faced the threat of desolation from the Assyrian army. In 2 Kings 19:14-19, Hezekiah's prayer demonstrates his trust in God for deliverance. The subsequent divine intervention, as recorded in 2 Kings 19:35-36, illustrates how trust in God can avert desolation and bring about miraculous deliverance. Similarly, the prophet Habakkuk, in a time of impending desolation, declares his trust in God despite dire circumstances. Habakkuk 3:17-19 states, "Though the fig tree does not bud and no fruit is on the vines... yet I will rejoice in the LORD; I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign LORD is my strength; He makes my feet like those of a deer; He enables me to tread on the heights." This passage exemplifies trust as a source of joy and strength, even in the face of potential desolation. New Testament Perspective In the New Testament, trust in God is further emphasized through the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus Himself calls for trust in God as a remedy for anxiety and fear. In Matthew 6:25-34, He instructs His followers not to worry about their needs, assuring them of God's provision: "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." The apostle Paul also speaks to the power of trust in God to keep believers from desolation. In Romans 15:13, he writes, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Trust in God is thus linked with an abundance of hope, joy, and peace, counteracting the desolation of hopelessness and despair. Conclusion Throughout Scripture, trust in God is portrayed as a vital safeguard against desolation. It is through trust that believers find refuge, deliverance, and peace, ensuring that they remain connected to the life-giving presence of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 34:22The LORD redeems the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library God is Our Refuge Goodness Wrought and Goodness Laid Up Isaac Watts. Sin Overcoming and Overcome Deliverance from Assyria The Children of the Poor. Model Speeches After the War. A Prospect of Revival Letter xi. --For 339. Coss. Constantius Augustus ii, Constans I ... Resources Why should I trust the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about trust? | GotQuestions.org How can I learn to trust in God? | GotQuestions.org Trust: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Trust of Saints Is in the Mercy of God Trust of Saints Is in the Word of God Trust of Saints Is: Despised by the Wicked Trust of Saints Is: Grounded on the Covenant Trust of Saints Is: Not in Carnal Weapons Trust of Saints Is: Not in the Flesh Trust of Saints Is: Not in Themselves Trust of Saints Is: Strong in the Prospect of Death Trust of Saints Is: Through Christ Trust of Saints Is: Unalterable Trust of the Wicked is in Earthly Alliances Trust of the Wicked is in Falsehood Trust of the Wicked is in Idols Trust of the Wicked is in Their own Heart Trust of the Wicked is in Their own Righteousness Trust of the Wicked is in Vanity Trust of the Wicked is in Wealth Trust of the Wicked is not in God Trust of the Wicked is Vain and Delusive Trust of the Wicked: Israelites Trust of the Wicked: Sennacherib Trust of the Wicked: Shall be Destroyed Trust of the Wicked: Shall Make Them Ashamed Trust of the Wicked--Illustrated Trust: Blessedness of Placing, in God Trust: Encouragements to Former Deliverances Trust: Encouragements to The Care of God for Us Trust: Encouragements to The Everlasting Strength of God Trust: Encouragements to The Goodness of God Trust: Encouragements to The Loving-Kindness of God Trust: Encouragements to The Rich Bounty of God Trust: God is the True Object of Trust: Leads to Being Compassed With Mercy Trust: Leads to Deliverance from Enemies Trust: Leads to Enjoyment of all Temporal and Spiritual Blessings Trust: Leads to Enjoyment of Happiness Trust: Leads to Enjoyment of Perfect Peace Trust: Leads to Fulfilment of all Holy Desires Trust: Leads to Rejoicing in God Trust: Leads to Safety in Times of Danger Trust: Saints Plead, in Prayer Trust: should be from Youth Up Trust: should be With the Whole Heart Trust: The Fear of God Leads To Trust: The Lord Knows Those Who Have Trust: To be Accompanied by Doing Good Related Terms |
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