As a pastor, I've seen many people struggle with trust, not just in their relationships with others, but also in their relationship with God. Trust is earned, not entitled, and it's essential to recognize that we can't trust others implicitly, especially our teenagers, as they're still learning and growing. I'd say to Joshua or Rebecca, "I trust you; I know your heart is gold. But I'm hesitant to trust your judgment in some circumstances. Let's work together on that."
Trust is a precious possession, and its violation can be devastating. As a Christian, I believe that Jesus Christ is the supreme authority on the human heart, and I must be willing to trust His Word to reveal the truth about myself. I've come to realize that my trust should be in Jesus, not in people. If I invest my trust in others, fear and anxiety will eventually take over, leading to depression. I'm learning to trust God's guidance and inspiration, even when my initial hunches or impressions prove false.
In our relationships, trust is essential, but it's not always easy. I've seen couples struggle to rebuild trust after a betrayal or infidelity. It takes time, effort, and commitment to restore trust, but it's worth it. As a husband and father, I want to model healthy trust and communication in my relationships. I'm learning to be honest and transparent, even when it's difficult, and to seek God's guidance in my relationships. By doing so, I hope to build trust and intimacy with Susan, Joshua, and Rebecca, and to point them to the ultimate source of trust: Jesus Christ.