1. Lay the Foundation by Trusting the One Who Never Fails

True trust begins with recognizing that a trustworthy God stands behind every relationship. When you anchor your heart in Him, you can approach others with confidence. As it is written, “[Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding](Proverbs 3:5).” By building a solid trust in the Lord first, you free yourself from the need to micromanage every detail of life, making room to trust people more fully.

2. Practice Forgiveness as a Way Forward

Whenever you hold onto past hurts, trusting others becomes a daunting task. Scripture encourages us to set those burdens down: “[Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you](Ephesians 4:32).” Forgiveness isn’t about letting someone off the hook; it’s about releasing the weight that keeps you from moving forward with an open, trusting spirit.

3. Be Honest in Your Interactions

A key ingredient of trust is transparency. Open communication fosters an environment where people can rely on you, and in turn, you can rely on them. God’s Word says, “[Let your ‘Yes’ be yes and your ‘No’ be no](Matthew 5:37).” When you speak truthfully—even about the little things—you lay the groundwork for richer, more dependable relationships.

4. Let Hope Overcome Fear

Fear often stands in the way of trusting others, but love and hope are powerful forces that push back the darkness of doubt. “[There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear](1 John 4:18).” Whenever anxieties arise, remind yourself that you have access to a perfect, limitless love that nurtures hope and helps you extend the benefit of the doubt in your relationships.

5. Seek Wisdom Before Making Decisions

When you feel uncertain about whom to trust, remember that discernment is at your disposal. “[If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault](James 1:5).” Taking time to pray and reflect before entrusting someone with responsibilities or personal disclosures can protect you from unnecessary pitfalls.

6. Embrace Humility to Build Bridges

Humility isn’t about being timid; it’s about recognizing you don’t have to be the expert at everything. “[Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you](1 Peter 5:6).” When you approach others with a modest spirit, it quickly dissolves suspicion and invites mutual trust and respect.

7. Show Kindness to Encourage Reliability

Small acts of kindness can have a profound effect on trust. Whether it’s lending a listening ear or showing empathy, people will sense authenticity in your actions. “[Therefore, as God’s chosen people…clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience](Colossians 3:12).” When you cultivate kindness, others become more trusting in return.

8. Remember You Are Not Alone

High-stakes situations can tempt you to rely solely on your own strength, but we are encouraged to “carry one another’s burdens.” This principle fosters an environment where mutual support and trust flourish. Let trusted friends or mentors walk alongside you. “[Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ](Galatians 6:2).” Leaning on others makes it easier to offer the same support in return.

9. Align Your Heart with God’s Truth

Allowing God’s Word to guide your decisions keeps you on track. “[Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path](Psalm 119:105).” As Scripture shapes your worldview, you’ll find it becomes more natural to recognize who is trustworthy, and to step out in faith when it’s time to take relational risks.

10. Let Love Be the Ultimate Motivation

Ultimately, trust grows best in the soil of love. “[Above all, love one another deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins](1 Peter 4:8).” Strive to keep love at the forefront of every interaction, and you’ll see your ability to trust—and be trusted—blossom over time.