Trusting God by Jerry Bridges
Trusting God is a book written by Jerry Bridges that explores the theme of trusting God, even in difficult times. The book is based on Bridges’ own personal journey of faith, which was challenged during a period of adversity in his life. In response to his struggles, Bridges embarked on a deep study of God’s sovereignty, which ultimately led to a transformation in his life. Trusting God is a powerful and insightful book that offers practical guidance on how to trust God in all circumstances.
Overview
Trusting God⁚ Even When Life Hurts, by Jerry Bridges, is a classic Christian devotional that tackles the often-difficult subject of trusting God, especially when life throws curveballs. Bridges, a well-respected author and speaker, draws upon his own personal struggles and a deep understanding of Scripture to guide readers toward a deeper and more unwavering faith. The book delves into the core principles of God’s sovereignty, wisdom, and love, providing a solid foundation for understanding why and how we can trust God even when things seem uncertain or unfair.
Trusting God offers a refreshing perspective on the challenges of faith in a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable. Bridges masterfully addresses common questions and anxieties, such as “Why is God allowing this?” and “What have I done wrong?”. He encourages readers to move beyond emotional reactions and to embrace a deeper understanding of God’s character and His unwavering love for His children.
The book is structured as a 31-day devotional, providing daily readings and reflections that are both insightful and practical. Each day’s reading explores a specific theme related to trusting God, with accompanying scripture references and personal anecdotes that illustrate the principles being discussed. Bridges’ clear and relatable writing style makes the book accessible to readers of all backgrounds and levels of faith.
Author and Background
Jerry Bridges (1929-2016) was a prominent Christian author and speaker known for his insightful writing on the topics of holiness and Christian living. He served for over sixty years on the staff of The Navigators, a global ministry dedicated to helping people grow in their faith and share the Gospel. Throughout his career, Bridges authored numerous books and devotionals, including the widely acclaimed “The Pursuit of Holiness,” which has sold over a million copies.
Bridges’ commitment to helping others understand and experience the Christian faith was evident in his writing. He was known for his clear and engaging style, which made complex theological concepts accessible to a wide audience. He possessed a deep understanding of Scripture and a passion for applying biblical principles to everyday life.
Bridges’ own life experiences played a significant role in shaping his perspective on trusting God. He faced personal challenges and struggles that led him to delve deeply into the nature of God’s sovereignty and His love for His children. This journey of faith became the foundation for “Trusting God,” a book that reflects both his theological insights and his personal journey toward a more profound trust in God.
Key Themes
At the heart of “Trusting God” lie several key themes that interweave to form a powerful message of faith and resilience. Bridges masterfully explores the concept of God’s sovereignty, emphasizing that God is in complete control of all events, both big and small. He challenges readers to embrace this truth, understanding that even in the midst of difficulty, God’s plan is ultimately for our good.
Alongside sovereignty, Bridges delves into the profound love of God. He argues that God’s love for us is unwavering and unconditional, a love that transcends our circumstances and our understanding. This theme serves as a bedrock of trust, reminding us that God’s heart is always for our well-being, even when our lives seem chaotic or painful.
Finally, Bridges addresses the problem of unbelief, acknowledging the struggles that many face in trusting God, particularly during times of adversity. He encourages readers to combat doubt and fear by anchoring their faith in God’s character, His promises, and His proven faithfulness throughout history.
The Problem of Unbelief
In “Trusting God,” Jerry Bridges candidly addresses the universal struggle of unbelief, acknowledging that doubting God is a common human experience. He recognizes that when life throws curveballs, our faith can waver, and questions like “Why is God allowing this?” or “What have I done wrong?” can easily arise. Bridges understands that these questions stem from a combination of fear, confusion, and a desire for answers that often seem elusive.
However, Bridges doesn’t simply dismiss these doubts as mere weakness. He acknowledges that the human condition is prone to insecurity and uncertainty, especially when faced with pain, loss, or unexplained circumstances. He emphasizes that questioning God is not inherently wrong but rather a natural response to the complexities of life.
Yet, Bridges also emphasizes that these doubts should not become a stronghold. He encourages readers to confront their unbelief head-on, examining the foundation of their doubts and seeking truth in God’s Word. He reminds us that God’s character, His promises, and His proven faithfulness throughout history provide a solid basis for trusting Him, even when our understanding is limited.
God’s Sovereignty
A central theme in Jerry Bridges’ “Trusting God” is the concept of God’s sovereignty. Bridges delves into the biblical understanding of God’s absolute control over all things, emphasizing that nothing happens outside of His will. This doctrine, while sometimes difficult to grasp, becomes a cornerstone of trusting God in the midst of life’s challenges.
Bridges meticulously explores the Scriptures, highlighting verses that affirm God’s ultimate authority and power. He argues that acknowledging God’s sovereignty doesn’t diminish our free will or responsibility but rather empowers us to embrace a perspective that transcends our limited understanding.
He emphasizes that understanding God’s sovereignty helps us navigate difficult situations with a greater sense of peace and purpose. Instead of becoming consumed by questions of “why,” we can begin to see our circumstances as part of a bigger picture, guided by God’s loving hand. This shift in perspective allows us to move from fear and confusion to trust and submission, even when the path ahead is unclear.
Bridges’ exploration of God’s sovereignty lays the foundation for a deeper understanding of trust, encouraging readers to release their anxieties and find peace in the knowledge that God is in control, even when life throws unexpected challenges our way.
God’s Wisdom and Love
In “Trusting God,” Jerry Bridges doesn’t just explore God’s sovereignty but also delves into the complementary attributes of God’s wisdom and love. These attributes are essential in building a foundation for trust, as they assure us that God’s actions, even those that seem inexplicable, are ultimately motivated by both wisdom and love.
Bridges argues that God’s wisdom is infinite and surpasses human understanding. He encourages readers to trust that God’s plans, even when they seem painful or confusing, are ultimately designed for our good. He reminds us that God’s wisdom isn’t limited by our own perception of what is best, but rather encompasses a broader perspective that we cannot fully grasp.
Furthermore, Bridges emphasizes the depth and immensity of God’s love. He highlights that God’s love for us isn’t conditional or based on our worthiness but is a steadfast and unwavering love that extends to all of humanity. This love, he argues, is the driving force behind God’s actions, even in the midst of adversity.
Understanding God’s wisdom and love provides a crucial perspective for navigating life’s challenges. It allows us to see beyond our own limited understanding and find comfort in the knowledge that God’s actions are always guided by a love that desires our ultimate good and a wisdom that surpasses our own.
Trusting God in Difficult Times
Jerry Bridges’ “Trusting God” addresses a critical question that many grapple with⁚ how can we trust God when life throws unexpected hardships our way? He acknowledges that when adversity strikes—be it a sudden illness, a financial crisis, or a personal loss—it’s easy to question God’s presence and care. The book delves into the emotional turmoil that can arise during such difficult times, recognizing the natural human tendency to ask “Why is God allowing this?” or “What have I done wrong?”
Bridges emphasizes that these questions, while understandable, can lead to a cycle of confusion and frustration. Instead, he encourages readers to focus on God’s sovereignty and unwavering love. He reminds us that God’s plan extends beyond our immediate understanding, and that even in the midst of pain, He is working for our ultimate good. Trusting God in difficult times isn’t about ignoring the pain or pretending it doesn’t exist. It’s about choosing to believe that God is in control, even when we can’t see the bigger picture.
Bridges provides a framework for navigating these challenging moments, suggesting that by clinging to God’s promises, seeking His guidance, and allowing Him to work in our lives, we can find peace and strength even in the face of adversity. “Trusting God” offers a beacon of hope, reminding us that our faith is not shaken by the storms of life, but rather strengthened through them.
Practical Applications
Jerry Bridges’ “Trusting God” goes beyond theoretical concepts, offering practical applications for daily life. He recognizes that understanding God’s sovereignty and love is essential, but it’s the practical application of these principles that truly transforms our faith. Bridges emphasizes the importance of actively seeking God’s guidance through prayer and scripture study. He encourages readers to develop a personal relationship with God, allowing His Word to shape their thoughts and actions.
The book also highlights the significance of community and support. Bridges emphasizes the power of fellowship, reminding us that we’re not meant to walk through life alone. He encourages readers to connect with other believers, sharing their struggles and triumphs, and finding strength in shared faith. Additionally, Bridges emphasizes the importance of living a life of obedience to God’s will, recognizing that our actions reflect our trust in His plan.
Bridges encourages readers to actively engage in acts of service and kindness, extending God’s love to those around them. He reminds us that true trust in God manifests itself not only in our words but also in our deeds. “Trusting God” doesn’t just offer intellectual understanding; it provides a roadmap for living out our faith in tangible ways, transforming our lives and impacting the world around us.
Jerry Bridges’ “Trusting God” leaves a lasting impact on the reader, offering a compelling and practical framework for navigating the complexities of faith. It emphasizes the importance of understanding God’s sovereignty, wisdom, and love as the foundation upon which our trust can stand firm. The book challenges the reader to move beyond a superficial understanding of these principles, delving deeper into their implications for daily life.
Bridges encourages us to embrace a life of trust, even when faced with challenges and uncertainties. He reminds us that God’s plan is ultimately for our good, and that His love is unwavering, even in the midst of adversity. “Trusting God” doesn’t shy away from the difficulties of faith, but rather equips us with the tools and understanding needed to navigate them, finding strength and peace in our relationship with God.
The book serves as a powerful reminder that our faith is not merely a set of beliefs, but a living relationship with a loving and sovereign God. It calls us to engage with God’s Word, seek His guidance, and live out our faith in tangible ways, impacting the world around us with His love and grace. “Trusting God” is a timeless and essential resource for anyone seeking to deepen their faith and live a life of unwavering trust in God’s goodness.
