Biblical Answer

Trust is Earned, Not Entitled

As a parent, you may feel guilty when your teenager asks if you trust them, but trust is indeed earned, not entitled. While it's essential to build trust, it's also crucial to be cautious and not give your teenager too much freedom too soon. This doesn't mean you don't trust your child's heart; it means you're hesitant to give them complete autonomy. You can say, "I trust you; I know your heart is gold. But I'm hesitant to give you complete freedom because I want to make sure you're making wise decisions." This approach helps your child understand that trust is a process that requires effort and maturity.

Restoring Trust When You've Failed

If you've made mistakes in the past that have hurt your child's trust, it's never too late to make things right. Confess your mistakes, apologize, and work together to rebuild trust. This is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate to your child that you, too, live under the authority of God and are accountable for your actions. When you make mistakes, own up to them, and show your child that you're committed to honesty and loyalty. This will help your child see that you're not perfect but are striving to be a reflection of God's character.

Building Trust with Your Child and God

Ultimately, building trust between you, your child, and God is a lifelong process. As you strive to be honest, loyal, and accountable, you'll model a relationship with God that your child can emulate. Remember, trust is not a guarantee, but it's normally the case that children grow up to become a reflection of what their parents taught them. By prioritizing trust, honesty, and loyalty, you'll create a strong foundation for your relationship with your child and with God. As the Bible says, "He who trusts in his own heart is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered" (Proverbs 28:26). By walking in wisdom and prioritizing trust, you'll build a strong relationship with your child and with God.