Topical Encyclopedia In the Christian faith, the concept of trust is foundational, particularly the trust that saints, or believers, place in God rather than in themselves. This principle is deeply rooted in Scripture and reflects a reliance on divine strength, wisdom, and guidance over human ability or understanding.Biblical Foundation The Bible consistently emphasizes that trust should be placed in God rather than in human strength or wisdom. Proverbs 3:5-6 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 importance of relying on God's wisdom rather than one's own. Jeremiah 17:5-7 further contrasts the outcomes of trusting in man versus trusting in God: "Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind, who makes the flesh his strength and turns his heart from the LORD. He will be like a shrub in the desert; he will not see when prosperity comes. But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him." Examples from Scripture Throughout the Bible, there are numerous examples of saints who placed their trust in God rather than in themselves. One notable example is King David, who, despite his own abilities as a warrior and leader, consistently sought God's guidance and strength. In Psalm 56:3-4 , David declares, "When I am afraid, I put my trust in You. In God, whose word I praise—in God I trust. I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" The Apostle Paul also exemplifies this trust in God over self. In 2 Corinthians 1:9 , Paul writes, "Indeed, we felt we were under the sentence of death, in order that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God, who raises the dead." Paul's reliance on God is further illustrated in Philippians 4:13 , where he states, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." Theological Implications The trust of saints in God rather than in themselves underscores several key theological principles. First, it acknowledges human limitations and the fallen nature of humanity. Romans 3:23 reminds believers, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." This recognition of human imperfection necessitates a reliance on God's perfect nature and His provision. Second, trusting in God rather than oneself is an act of faith and submission. Hebrews 11:6 states, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him." Trusting in God is an expression of faith that acknowledges His sovereignty and goodness. Practical Application For believers, the call to trust in God rather than in themselves has practical implications for daily life. It involves seeking God's guidance through prayer and Scripture, as well as relying on the Holy Spirit for strength and wisdom. It also means surrendering personal ambitions and desires to God's will, as exemplified in Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane: "Not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42). In summary, the trust of saints is not in themselves but in God, who is faithful and able to sustain, guide, and empower His people. This trust is a defining characteristic of the Christian life, rooted in Scripture and exemplified by the faithful throughout biblical history. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Corinthians 1:9But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raises the dead: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Saints and Faithful On the Invocation of Saints All Saints' Day Creation's Groans and the Saints' Sighs The Twenty-First Article they Absolutely Condemn, Because we do ... Third Sunday after Trinity Humility, Trust, Watchfulness ... Fenelon -- the Saints Converse with God The Love of the Brethren Heeding Intuitional Warnings The Knowledge of God 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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