June 2

How often we have trusted the wrong person. Whether we have succumbed to the high pressure tactics of a car salesman and purchased a vehicle we really couldn’t afford or whether we have allowed ourselves to be persuaded of the undying fidelity of one who professed to love us forever then let us down, we have felt the sting of betrayal and the anguish of self-recrimination at our foolishness in being deceived.

These kinds of mistakes tend to make us leery of ever trusting again. Of course, we can’t simply retreat into the shell of our lives and exclude contact with others. We can’t require ourselves to drive an antiquated vehicle because we’re afraid to buy a new one. We can’t deny ourselves the joy of loving because we fear being unloved in return.

How can we resolve our dilemma—that of yearning for the joy of fulfillment in the people and experiences that life brings our way but distaining the anxiety reaching out for it may produce in our lives? As with every quandary in which we find ourselves, this one has its resolution in the unfailing Word of the Living God if we will but appropriate it.

In Philippians 4:13 we are given the key that unlocks the door of our ability to love and to trust those whom we love as well as to overcome every challenge life may hurl our way. It says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” All things. Nothing is impossible. He who dwells within us is greater than all that challenges us.