Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: In the biblical context, "not trusting" refers to the lack of faith or confidence in God, His promises, or His provisions. This concept is often depicted as a spiritual shortcoming or sin, as trust in God is a fundamental aspect of a believer's relationship with Him. The Bible frequently contrasts trust in God with reliance on human wisdom, strength, or material wealth. Biblical Examples and Teachings: 1. Israel's Wilderness Experience: The Israelites' journey through the wilderness serves as a prominent example of not trusting in God. Despite witnessing numerous miracles, they repeatedly doubted God's ability to provide and protect. In Numbers 14:11 , the Lord says to Moses, "How long will this people treat Me with contempt? How long will they refuse to believe in Me, despite all the signs I have performed among them?" This lack of trust led to severe consequences, including the delay of their entry into the Promised Land. 2. King Saul's Disobedience: King Saul's reign is marked by instances of not trusting in God's timing and commands. In 1 Samuel 13, Saul offers a burnt offering himself, rather than waiting for the prophet Samuel, demonstrating his lack of trust in God's appointed process. Samuel rebukes Saul in 1 Samuel 13:13 , saying, "You have acted foolishly; you have not kept the command the LORD your God gave you." 3. The Rich Young Ruler: In the New Testament, the account of the rich young ruler illustrates the difficulty of trusting in God over material wealth. In Matthew 19:21-22 , Jesus tells him, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me." The young man’s inability to part with his wealth reveals his lack of trust in Jesus' promise of heavenly treasure. 4. Peter Walking on Water: Peter's experience of walking on water towards Jesus is a vivid illustration of trust and its absence. Initially, Peter steps out in faith, but when he notices the wind, he becomes afraid and begins to sink. Jesus' response in Matthew 14:31 is telling: "Immediately Jesus reached out His hand and took hold of Peter. 'You of little faith,' He said, 'why did you doubt?'" Theological Implications: · Faith as Trust: Trust is integral to the biblical concept of faith. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as "the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see." Trusting God involves believing in His character, promises, and sovereignty, even when circumstances seem contrary. · Consequences of Not Trusting: The Bible warns of the spiritual and practical consequences of not trusting God. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, "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." Failing to trust God can lead to misguided decisions and spiritual stagnation. · Encouragement to Trust: Scripture repeatedly encourages believers to place their trust in God. Psalm 37:5 exhorts, "Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it." Trusting God is portrayed as a source of peace and stability, as seen in Isaiah 26:3 : "You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast of mind, because he trusts in You." Practical Application: Believers are called to cultivate trust in God through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Trusting God involves surrendering personal control and acknowledging His wisdom and goodness in all aspects of life. Topical Bible Verses Romans 3:3-4For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? Topicalbible.org Matthew 21:21 2 Thessalonians 3:2-3 Strong's Hebrew 982. batach -- to trust... 1), relied (1), rely (8), secure (5), trust (51), trusted (15), trusting (3), trusts ... A primitive root; properly, to hie for refuge (but not so precipitately as ... /hebrew/982.htm - 6k Library On Trusting in the Mercy of God. Was Christ not a Magician? What it Means to Trust the Lord We Ought to Serve God, Trusting in his Promises. We Ought to Serve God, Trusting in his Promises. The Word of the Truth of the Gospel To Brother Andrea of Lucca to Brother Baldo and to Brother Lando ... The Spirit of Supplication The Want of Power to Believe A Few Days Later the Fashionable World of Europe was Startled by ... Resources What does the Bible mean that we are not to judge others? | GotQuestions.orgIs it possible for a person to be saved but not predestined? | GotQuestions.org What is the concept of "already but not yet"? | GotQuestions.org Not: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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