HOW DO I TRUST GOD AFTER DISAPPOINTMENT?

How to trust God after disappointment and discover practical steps to strengthen your faith and find peace in His promises.

Trusting God is foundational to our Christian walk, yet it can be challenging, especially during difficult times. What do we do when our faith is shaken and we are recovering from the battles of disappointment and broken dreams? The Bible encourages us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). But how do we cultivate such trust? Here are six practical steps to help you deepen your faith and reliance on God.

1. Trust in God’s Sovereignty

Acknowledging that God is in control is the first step in learning how to trust Him. He is the Creator of the universe, and His plans are perfect. Jeremiah 29:11 assures us that God’s plans are to prosper us and by recognising His sovereignty, we can find peace in knowing that He is able and He is orchestrating everything for our good.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

2. Immerse Yourself in His Promises

The Bible is filled with accounts of God’s faithfulness. Reading and meditating on His Word strengthens our faith and reminds us of His promises. Romans 10:17 states, “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” Make it a habit to study the Scriptures daily, allowing them to renew your mind and reinforce your trust in God.

3. Pray with Honesty and Surrender

Open communication with God is vital. Share your fears, doubts, and desires with Him. Philippians 4:6 encourages us that we are to present all our requests to God. By surrendering our concerns to Him, we demonstrate our trust in God’s ability to handle every situation. Nothing is too big or too small to bring before your maker.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

4. Reflect on Past Faithfulness

One of the most powerful things you can do when struggling with disappointment is to begin a ritual of gratitude. Take time to remember how God has been faithful in your life and in the lives of others. Reflecting on past experiences where God provided, protected, and guided you reinforces your confidence in His unchanging nature. Psalm 77:11 reminds us, “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.” Switch your mind from thinking on the things that haven’t worked out and make a decision to focus on all the times that God has showed up for you and others.

5. Surround Yourself with a Faith Community

Engaging with fellow believers provides encouragement and support. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges us, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together… but encouraging one another.” Being part of a community allows you to share your journey, gain insights, and be uplifted by others’ testimonies.

6. Practice Patience and Perseverance

Trusting God often requires waiting and enduring through trials. James 1:2-4 teaches us that the testing of our faith produces perseverance, leading to maturity. Embrace the process, knowing that God’s timing is perfect and His ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9).

Deepening your trust in God is a continuous journey that involves intentional steps and a willing heart. By acknowledging His sovereignty, immersing yourself in Scripture, praying earnestly, reflecting on His faithfulness, engaging with a faith community, and practicing patience, you can strengthen your faith and experience the peace that comes from trusting in Him completely. God knows the disappointment you have dealt with and He is close to the broken-hearted. Let Him know how you are feeling. Joyce Meyer says that the highest form of faith is to trust God when it feels like you’re going through hell and nothing makes sense.

Hear more about what Joyce Meyer says on Trusting God here

Join Liz Wright on this time of divine reset and learn to trust in God and His strength.