As followers of Christ, we all know that the Bible instructs us to trust the Lord in times of trouble, but what does "trusting" really mean? If we are really trusting God the way He wants us to, there are some things that we must believe with all of our hearts.

First, we must believe that God is in control. Scripture says, "The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and His sovereignty rules over all." (Psalm 103:19 NASB) When our circumstances seem to be spinning out of control, we must remind ourselves that God is still on the throne, and He has absolute control and authority over everything. Psalm 46:10 (NASB) says, "Cease striving and know that I am God." Sometimes our lack of faith causes us to try to change our circumstances before God is ready to move. If we listen carefully, we just may hear His gentle whisper saying, "Be still, and trust that I'm in control, and I know what I'm doing." The Lord told the prophet Isaiah, "I will work, and who can hinder or reverse it?" (Isaiah 43:13 AMP) When the time is right, God will act on our behalf, and no devil in hell or person on earth will be able to stop Him. When I'm in a trial, I like to declare, "God is in control. Jesus is Lord!"

Second, we must believe that God always has our best interests in mind. In Psalm 32:8 (NLT), the Lord tells us: "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you." It is God's will that we receive His very best in every situation we face, but the following verse reveals that there's a condition. "Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control." (Psalm 32:9 NLT) In order for us to lay hold of God's best, we need to cooperate with Him and follow His lead in everything. Scripture says, "'For I know the plans I have for you,' says the Lord. 'They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.'" (Jeremiah 29:11 NLT) God's plans and purposes for you and me are always good. And we will experience those good plans as we give Him first place in our lives, and walk in close fellowship with Him on a daily basis.

Third, we must believe that God will arrange things for our good. Romans 8:28 (NLT) says, "And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them." This is the Lord's unfailing promise that if we love Him and want His will for our lives, He will cause everything that comes our way to work out for our good somehow. The apostle Paul revealed that he had a real revelation of this truth when he wrote: "We felt like we'd been sent to death row, that it was all over for us. As it turned out, it was the best thing that could have happened. Instead of trusting in our own strength or wits to get out of it, we were forced to trust God totally--not a bad idea since He's the God who raises the dead!" (2 Corinthians 1:8-9 MSG) Sometimes, our difficult circumstances can be the "best thing" for us because they teach us to depend on God, instead of ourselves or others. As we become less independent, and more God-dependent, we open the door for God to do "exceedingly abundantly" above all we ask or imagine. (Ephesians 3:20 NKJV)

What is holding you back from trusting the Lord with every fiber of your being today? Confess your fears and doubts to Him right now, and let Him prove to you once again that He is more than worthy of your trust!

Prayer: Lord, when it seems like my life is spinning out of control, remind me that You rule and reign over all. Even when things look to the contrary, help me to believe that You always have my best interests in mind. Thank You that as I live for You and trust in You, You will work all things together for my good and Your glory!