Trusting God When You Don’t Understand: Finding Peace and Purpose in Uncertain Times
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Life is filled with unexpected challenges and confusing moments. These are times when trusting God when you don’t understand the plan becomes both essential and difficult. In these seasons, God invites us to lean into His promises, finding peace and purpose even when our path feels unclear.
In this post, we’ll explore insights from Scripture, stories of biblical faith, and practical steps to help you trust God in uncertain times.
Be sure to download your free copy of our Trusting God When You Don’t Understand Bible Study & Reflection Questions at the end of this post! No sign up required!
Understanding the Biblical Basis for Trusting God
What Does the Bible Say About Trusting God in Hard Times?
Scripture offers us timeless wisdom on trusting God, especially when we face life’s uncertainties. Here are some key verses that provide guidance and assurance:
- Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in Adonai with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (TLV) The Hebrew word for “trust,” בטח (batach), suggests a deep confidence in God’s goodness and guidance, encouraging us to rely on Him even when we don’t understand the way forward.
- Psalm 9:10: “And those who know Your name will put their trust in You, For You, Lord, have not abandoned those who seek You.” (NASB) This verse shows that trust grows from an intimate knowledge of God’s character, assuring us that He never abandons those who seek Him.
- Psalm 37:5: “Commit your way to Adonai. Trust in Him, and He will do it.” (TLV) In Hebrew, “commit” גלל (galal) means “to roll” our concerns and plans onto God. This act of trust allows us to rely on His timing and His wisdom.
- Isaiah 26:3: “You keep in perfect peace one whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” (TLV) The double repetition of peace שלום שלום (shalom shalom) in Hebrew means profound and complete peace. This verse promises peace to those who stay grounded in their trust in God.
Biblical Stories of Faith in the Midst of Uncertainty
The Bible is filled with examples of individuals who trusted God amid trials and uncertainties. Their stories offer us powerful lessons on how to place our faith in God when life doesn’t make sense.
Abraham: Trusting in God’s Promises Over Time
Abraham’s journey of faith began with a promise from God that he would become the father of many nations (Genesis 15:5). Yet, he and his wife Sarah remained childless for many years. Despite the delay, “he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith” (Romans 4:20). Abraham’s story teaches us that faith often requires patience, trusting in God’s promises even when their fulfillment seems delayed.
Moses: Trusting God Despite Personal Inadequacy
When God called Moses to lead Israel out of Egypt, Moses doubted his ability, citing his lack of eloquence (Exodus 4:10-12). Yet, God reassured him, “I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” This story encourages us to trust that God equips us for the work He calls us to, even when we feel unqualified.
Noah: Faith in the Midst of Uncertainty
Noah’s obedience in building the ark shows us the power of trusting God’s instructions, even when they don’t make logical sense. Hebrews 11:7 honors Noah’s faith: “By faith Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.” (NASB) His story is a reminder that sometimes faith requires obeying God even without full understanding.
Joseph, Son of Jacob: Trusting God in the Pit and the Prison
Joseph’s journey took him from a pit to a prison and eventually to prominence in Egypt. Despite years of hardship, Joseph held onto his faith in God’s purpose. He later told his brothers, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good” (Genesis 50:20). His story demonstrates that God can use even painful experiences to fulfill His greater purpose.
Joseph, Yeshua’s Earthly Father: Trusting God with His Family
When Joseph discovered Mary was pregnant, he faced a dilemma. An angel’s reassurance helped him trust God’s plan, leading him to take Mary as his wife (Matthew 1:20-24). Joseph’s trust in God’s guidance is a model of faith when facing unexpected and challenging situations.
Mary, Yeshua’s Mother: Trusting God with the Unknown
Mary’s acceptance of her role as the mother of the Messiah is one of the ultimate acts of trust. Her response, “Let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38), shows her surrender to God’s plan, even though it meant facing an uncertain future.
Esther: Faith in the Face of Danger
Queen Esther’s courage and faith led her to risk her life to save her people. Encouraged by Mordecai, she trusted God’s timing, believing she was in her position “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14). Her story reminds us that God often calls us to take bold steps of faith, trusting that He is with us.
How Can I Trust God When Life Feels Uncertain?
Trusting God in uncertain times isn’t easy, but Scripture and the lives of biblical figures show us that it’s possible. Here are practical steps to help you build trust in God daily, even when the future feels uncertain.
Practical Steps for Trusting God Daily
- Begin Each Day with Scripture Reading
- Start your day by reading a passage that reminds you of God’s faithfulness, such as Psalm 23 or Psalm 91. This can help ground you in His promises before facing the day’s challenges.
- Keep a Journal for Prayers and Answers
- Writing down your prayers and any answered prayers can encourage you to reflect on God’s faithfulness over time. Journaling provides a way to release your worries to God and later see how He has worked in your life.
- Incorporate Worship and Thanksgiving
- Set aside time each day to worship God, either through music, silent prayer, or praise. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us to bring our requests with thanksgiving, and in return, God promises us His peace.
- Practice Mindfulness with Scripture
- When you feel anxious, repeat a calming Scripture, such as, “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). This can help shift your focus from worry to God’s presence.
- Create a Supportive Faith Community
- Connect with others who can encourage you in your faith journey. Participating in Bible studies, small groups, or online faith communities can help strengthen your trust in God through shared encouragement.
- Use This Prayer for Surrender
- Bring your concerns to God with this prayer:
Recognizing God’s Presence in Life’s Challenges
1. Hardships Don’t Mean Abandonment
- Psalm 34:18 says, “The righteous cry out and Adonai hears, and delivers them from all their troubles.” (TLV) When we face trials, it’s easy to feel abandoned. But Scripture reassures us that God is near to us in our pain, inviting us to lean into His comfort.
2. Seeing God’s Hand in Unexpected Blessings
- Sometimes, God’s presence is revealed through small, unexpected blessings. Romans 8:28 reminds us, “Now we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose.” (TLV) These blessings, like a timely word of encouragement or an unexpected provision, can be reminders of His awareness of our needs.
3. Trusting God’s Sovereignty Over the Unknown
- Isaiah 55:8-9 teaches us, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways.” It is a declaration of Adonai. For as the heavens are higher than earth,
so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.” (TLV) Trusting in God’s sovereignty brings peace, knowing that He is in control and sees the bigger picture.
Overcoming Common Obstacles to Trust
Managing Fear and Anxiety
- Fear and anxiety can cloud our ability to trust. One way to manage these feelings is through mindfulness and meditation on Scripture. Repeat a comforting verse, like “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10), to bring your mind back to God’s promises.
Practicing Patience with God’s Timing
- Waiting on God’s timing can be challenging, especially when we want immediate answers. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us, “but they who wait for Adonai will renew their strength. They will soar up with wings as eagles. They will run, and not grow weary. They will walk, and not be faint.” (TLV) Patience allows us to trust that God’s wisdom surpasses our own.
Embracing the Mystery of God’s Plan
- Deuteronomy 29:29 tells us,“The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our sons forever, so that we may follow all the words of this Law.” (NASB) Trusting God often requires embracing mystery, recognizing that while we may not understand His ways, we can trust His heart and His wisdom.
My Final Thoughts – How Trusting God Transforms Your Life
Placing our trust in God transforms every aspect of life. It frees us from the need to control outcomes and brings peace, joy, and resilience. When we trust in God’s goodness and guidance, we experience a deeper relationship with Him that sustains us through all seasons.
Trusting God when you don’t understand may not be easy, but it’s a journey worth taking. Each verse and story reminds us of His faithfulness, even when life feels uncertain. Through prayer, Scripture, and a daily commitment to trust, we can find purpose and peace.
If you have experiences or favorite verses to share, please comment below! And if you’re interested in growing together, join our Besorah Bible Study Facebook group for support and community as we journey through life’s challenges with faith.
Don’t forget to download your free copy of our Trusting God When You Don’t Understand Bible study and reflection questions below!
FAQ’s
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How can I trust God when I feel abandoned?
Feeling abandoned can be very painful, but Scripture assures us that God is close to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18). When it feels as though God is silent or distant, it’s helpful to remind yourself that feelings aren’t always reflective of reality. God’s promises in His Word are steady, even when our emotions fluctuate. Spending time in prayer, reading the Psalms, or talking with trusted friends can help bring comfort and renew a sense of His presence.
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What are some practical ways to strengthen my faith daily?
To build a foundation of faith, start small but stay consistent. Set aside time each day to read Scripture, pray, or meditate on God’s promises. Journaling can be a powerful tool to track God’s faithfulness over time, and worship, whether through music or reflection, can draw your focus back to God. Regular fellowship, like a Bible study or faith group, can also encourage you by sharing your journey with others.
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How can I stay patient while waiting for God to answer my prayers?
Waiting can feel endless, but Scripture offers us encouragement to “wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage” (Psalm 27:14). One way to stay patient is to focus on gratitude—reflecting on God’s past faithfulness helps remind us that He is at work even now.
Consider developing a “thankfulness list” that you add to whenever you see God’s goodness, no matter how small. Trusting in God’s timing also means believing He sees what we cannot and that His plans are for our best. We have a 30-Day Gratitude Challenge devotional workbook you can get at the end of the post!
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What can I do when fear overwhelms my ability to trust?
When fear threatens to overshadow your faith, pause and redirect your focus to specific promises in Scripture. Verses like Isaiah 41:10, “Fear not, for I am with you,” remind us that God is with us and that He is stronger than our fears.
Practicing deep breathing, reading a Psalm, or praying in the moment can help calm your mind. It may also help to talk with others who can pray with you or offer reassurance.
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How does trusting God affect my day-to-day life?
Trusting God doesn’t eliminate life’s challenges, but it does give you a source of strength and peace to face them. When you trust God, you can release control and find comfort in His guidance.
This trust can bring you peace in difficult circumstances, guide you in decision-making, and help you navigate relationships with more patience and understanding. Over time, trusting God becomes a foundation for a life anchored in faith rather than in worry.
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What should I do if I find myself doubting God’s plan?
Doubt is natural, especially during difficult times. God isn’t offended by our questions; in fact, the Psalms are full of examples where people brought their doubts to Him. If you’re struggling with doubt, consider praying honestly about it, asking God to increase your faith.
It can also help to spend time with people who encourage your faith, whether through fellowship or spiritual mentorship. Remember, faith isn’t the absence of doubt; it’s choosing to believe God is good and trustworthy even in moments of uncertainty.
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Why does God allow hardships if He loves me?
Hardships are a challenging aspect of faith, but they often lead to growth and a deeper understanding of God’s love. Scripture tells us that God uses trials to refine and strengthen us (James 1:2-4).
While the reasons for suffering are often mysterious, we can trust that God is with us in every difficulty and that He works all things for our good (Romans 8:28). Through these experiences, we learn to rely on God’s strength rather than our own and can grow closer to Him.
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How can I know if I’m truly surrendering my fears to God?
True surrender often comes with a sense of peace, even if the circumstances remain challenging. One way to know if you’re surrendering is by asking yourself if you’re holding onto anxiety or if you feel a calm trust.
Surrendering doesn’t mean that fear disappears; it means that you consciously choose to give that fear over to God repeatedly. Regular prayer, seeking God’s presence, and reflecting on Scriptures about His sovereignty can help you let go and trust.
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What does it mean to trust God “actively”?
Trusting God actively means making intentional choices that reflect your faith in Him. This could look like choosing not to worry about the future, spending time in prayer when faced with a problem, or speaking to someone with kindness and patience.
Active trust isn’t passive waiting; it’s a daily choice to live out your belief in God’s goodness and faithfulness. Practicing gratitude, studying Scripture, and worshiping regularly are all ways to actively cultivate trust in God.
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What should I remember when my prayers aren’t answered the way I hope?
It’s natural to feel disappointed when prayers aren’t answered as we expect. God’s ways are often beyond our understanding, but His love and wisdom remain constant. Remember that God sees the bigger picture and knows what is best for you, even when it doesn’t align with your desires.
Trust that He is still listening, still caring, and that He may be guiding you in a direction you hadn’t considered. Continue praying with a spirit of openness, asking for His will to be done, and know that He hears and responds according to His perfect plan.
Download Printable Bible Study and Reflection Questions
NASB – “Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation“
Tree of Life (TLV) – Scripture taken from the Holy Scriptures, Tree of Life Version*. Copyright © 2014,2016 by the Tree of Life Bible Society. Used by permission of the Tree of Life Bible Society.
About Our Author
Diane Ferreira is a Jewish believer, wife, and mom, as well as a proud bulldog mom. She is currently pursuing her graduate degree in Jewish Studies at seminary, deepening her passion for Scripture and Jewish history. Diane writes with a heart to connect the rich traditions of her Jewish heritage with her faith in Yeshua, offering insights that inspire believers to grow in their walk with God. When she’s not studying or writing, Diane enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and crochet.