Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, trust is a profound reliance on the character, ability, strength, and truth of God. It is a foundational element of faith, deeply rooted in the relationship between God and His people. Trusting in God is not merely an intellectual assent but an active, living confidence in His promises and His providential care.Biblical Foundation The concept of trust is woven throughout Scripture, often linked with the experience of God's mercy. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for trust, "batach," conveys a sense of security and confidence. Trusting in God is depicted as a refuge and a source of strength. The Psalms, in particular, highlight this relationship between trust and divine mercy. Psalm 32:10 states, "Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but loving devotion surrounds him who trusts in the LORD." This verse illustrates the protective and encompassing nature of God's mercy for those who place their trust in Him. The imagery of being "compassed" or surrounded by mercy suggests a divine shield, offering both protection and comfort. Trust and Mercy in the Psalms The Psalms frequently associate trust with the experience of God's steadfast love and mercy. Psalm 13:5 declares, "But I have trusted in Your loving devotion; my heart will rejoice in Your salvation." Here, trust is directly linked to the assurance of God's merciful intervention and deliverance. Psalm 33:18-22 further emphasizes this connection: "Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear Him, on those whose hope is in His loving devotion, to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine. Our soul waits for the LORD; He is our help and our shield. For our hearts rejoice in Him, since we trust in His holy name. May Your loving devotion rest on us, O LORD, as we put our hope in You." This passage underscores the reciprocal relationship between trust and mercy, where trust in God's holy name results in the experience of His loving devotion. New Testament Perspective In the New Testament, trust in God is exemplified through faith in Jesus Christ. The Greek word "pistis," often translated as faith, encompasses trust and belief. The life and teachings of Jesus provide the ultimate revelation of God's mercy, inviting believers to trust in Him for salvation and eternal life. Ephesians 2:4-5 highlights the mercy of God as a response to faith: "But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our trespasses. It is by grace you have been saved!" Trusting in Christ leads to the experience of God's rich mercy, manifesting in spiritual renewal and salvation. Practical Implications For believers, trusting in God is both a spiritual discipline and a source of comfort. It involves surrendering personal control and relying on God's wisdom and timing. This trust is not passive but active, expressed through prayer, obedience, and a steadfast hope in God's promises. The assurance of being compassed with mercy provides believers with peace and confidence, even amidst trials and uncertainties. It is a reminder of God's unwavering commitment to His people, offering them grace and compassion in every circumstance. In summary, trust in God is a central theme in Scripture, intricately linked with the experience of His mercy. It is through trust that believers find themselves surrounded by God's loving devotion, experiencing His protection, guidance, and unfailing love. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 32:10Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusts in the LORD, mercy shall compass him about. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Sheep and their Shepherd Sin Overcoming and Overcome Faith and Regeneration Two Shepherds and Two Flocks Scriptural Poems; Being Several Portions of Scripture Digested ... Psalm XL. The Sixth Miracle in John's Gospel --The Blind Made to See, and ... Love's Logic The Exile. Transformation by Beholding 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 |