Seven Steps to Trusting God

A Reflective Devotional by Dr. Lance Parker, EdD

Step 1: Surrender Control

Scripture: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." — Proverbs 3:5

Reflection: Surrender is not a sign of weakness but a declaration of faith. Trusting God begins when we release the illusion of control and invite Him to direct our steps. It means acknowledging that divine wisdom surpasses human logic. When you surrender, you shift from anxiety to assurance, knowing that God's plan is sovereign, even when the path is unclear.

Journal Prompts:

• What areas of my life am I still trying to control?
• How would my mindset change if I truly trusted God with these areas?
• What might God be teaching me through this season of surrender?

Step 2: Seek God Through Prayer

Scripture: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." — Philippians 4:6

Reflection: Prayer is the sacred space where fear transforms into faith. When we communicate with God regularly, we begin to sense His presence in both peace and pain. Trust grows when prayer becomes not just a reaction to crisis but a rhythm of daily communion.

Journal Prompts:

• How often do I bring my worries to God before trying to solve them myself?
• What does consistent, honest prayer look like in my current season?
• Write a short prayer of release and gratitude.

Step 3: Anchor Yourself in Scripture

Scripture: "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." — Psalm 119:105

Reflection: God's Word is the anchor that steadies us when emotions sway. Scripture realigns our perspective, reminding us of His promises and character. When you study His Word, you gain clarity not from circumstance, but from covenant truth.

Journal Prompts:

• What verse or passage reminds me of God's faithfulness?
• How can I incorporate Scripture into my daily decision-making?
• Which biblical story mirrors my current journey of trust?

Step 4: Reflect on God's Past Faithfulness

Scripture: "Remember the wonders He has done." — 1 Chronicles 16:12

Reflection: Reflection transforms fear into faith. When we remember how God has already shown up — healed, provided, protected — we begin to see a pattern of divine consistency. God's track record builds confidence for tomorrow's uncertainties.

Journal Prompts:

• When has God shown up for me in ways I didn't expect?
• What lesson did I learn from a past season of waiting?
• How can remembering His faithfulness strengthen me today?

Step 5: Walk in Obedience

Scripture: "If you love Me, keep My commandments." — John 14:15

Reflection: Obedience is the ultimate expression of trust. Even when the "why" is unclear, walking in obedience says, "God, I believe You know what's best for me." Every act of faith-based obedience leads to transformation, maturity, and alignment with divine purpose.

Journal Prompts:

• What is God calling me to do that requires faith over fear?
• How can I respond in obedience today, not tomorrow?
• What would trusting obedience look like in my relationships, work, or ministry?

Step 6: Wait with Patience and Expectation

Scripture: "The Lord is good to those who wait for Him." — Lamentations 3:25

Reflection: Waiting is never wasted. In God's timing, patience becomes preparation. Every delay refines character, strengthens endurance, and reveals the depth of your trust. Expectation is not about controlling outcomes — it's about believing in God's faithfulness before the manifestation.

Journal Prompts:

• What emotions arise when I have to wait?
• How can I shift from frustration to faith during the waiting process?
• What is God cultivating in me while I wait?

Step 7: Praise Through the Process

Scripture: "I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth." — Psalm 34:1

Reflection: Praise is trust in action. When you worship through uncertainty, you declare that God is worthy not because of what He's done, but because of who He is. Praise invites His presence into your situation and transforms your heart posture from worry to worship.

Journal Prompts:

• What blessings can I thank God for right now?
• How can I make praise a part of my daily rhythm?
• Write a short declaration of gratitude for what God is doing, even if you can't see it yet.