Trust, by definition, is reliance on the integrity, strength, ability, and surety, of a person or thing. We place our trust in a variety of different things; relationships, finances, religion, laws, the list can go on and on. Without trust, it is impossible to function in everyday life, yet many people battle with this principle.
Often the struggle exists because of a disappointment. For many, once they fall off the ‘horse’ called trust, it is difficult for them to mount again. Herein lies the danger, for truly one must trust to fulfill their purpose. No man is an island; we were designed to live interdependently, within a community.
To my wonderment, God used a horse named Radar to teach me profound lessons about TRUST.
Allow me to take you along as I journey with Radar through the Canadian Rockies, and share with you, the deeper vision of trust as God revealed it to me.
It was our first trail ride, and the ranchers introduced me to Radar. I stand about 5’3” and radar was one of the bigger horses at the ranch, much bigger and stronger than I, but so beautiful. He captivated me from the start. I was excited to begin my weeklong exploration through the wilderness with him.
When everyone on our ‘team’ was mounted, we headed towards the trails. I was filled with excitement as I anticipated the unknown exploits that awaited me. It was not very long into our ride when I began to hear the all-familiar voice of God speaking deep within my spirit.
Trust will position you to uncover purpose in your everyday life:
- Trust is Built Over Time.
On the initial day, the trail rides were simple. We walked and trotted along stretches of flat trails, paralleling the flowing streams, making it easy for us to become comfortable with each other. We then ventured a short way into the rugged forest; here is where our journey of trust began.
It was important to convey to Radar, that I trusted him. I did this by keeping a loose hold on the reigns, allowing him to move about without much restraint. He earned my trust as he confidently navigated through each trail without incident.
Spending time with God will build trust in your relationship. The more time you spend in the presence of God, it will become easier to hold loosely your plans and embrace God’s guidance in your life. With each passing moment you will gain a stronger revelation of His desire to lead, guide and direct you towards His amazing purpose for your life. (Jeremiah 29:11) Don’t attempt to rush the process, trust is built over time!
- Trust Requires Communication Skills
It was necessary for me to communicate to Radar in the language he understood. Using voice commands was useless, I needed to convey my intentions to him using body language, and I had to be alert to what his body language was saying to me. It was important to know when to ‘speak’ and when to ‘yield’. Working together in unity allowed us to effortlessly explore a vast amount of territory.
There is much God wants to communicate to you, show you, and experience with you. It is imperative for you to speak His language. The spiritual language of God is grounded in Faith. (Hebrews 11:6, James 1:6, Matthew 21:21). You must develop this skill so you can explore the deeper things God has planned for you. For those who can be trusted with little will be given more. (Matthew. 25:21) If you want God to hear you, call upon Him in faith. Approaching God with doubt and unbelief is of no benefit. Learn how to yield to His commands; communicating with God is a two-way partnership. (James 1:6-7) Learn to speak through the voice of Faith.
- Trust Does Not Yield to Fear When the Unexpected Happens
We were traveling along the trail, early in the week, when we approached some campers alongside the river. As we came closer to their campsite, several unleashed dogs lunged out at the horses. Startled by the sudden attack, the horses began rearing up and backing up.
I had a choice, panic and try to take control of the situation, or hold on tightly, believing Radar would settle down as soon as he sensed there was no further danger. By remaining calm, I permitted Radar to respond according to his natural instincts, and he led us to safety.
Unexpected things will pop out at you while traveling on your journey through life. You must stay calm, hold on tightly to God, and allow Him to be your refuge. When the unexpected happens, you will have to make a choice… FEAR or TRUST. God promises to go ahead of you, to be with you, and not fail you. (Deuteronomy 31:8, Psalms 121: 1-8) Trust, and do not yield to Fear.
- Trust Builds Confidence
After experiencing many adventures with Radar, a confidence developed between us. An assurance, no matter what unknown territory awaited me, Radar had already been there. He was familiar with the terrain, he knew the ups and downs, and he was equipped to navigate, even the rocky spots, without hesitation. Together we traveled to places I could not have ventured alone. I was thankful for his commitment to work hard on my behalf.
The ride down was even more demanding. The pathways were steep, and the obstacles were many. There was a stretch of trail, which was extremely narrow as it was steep. I thought, “REALLY… is this the only way”? Radar paused, and looked back at me as if to say, “hang on, trust me, I got this”!
Panic would have struck if I were not totally confident in his capability to navigate the grueling mountain. Throughout our outings together, he gave me no reason to doubt his ability. I patted his head and gave him the ‘go-ahead’ nudge with my legs. He proceeded down the ridge flawlessly. The experience was incredible!
GOD has so much in store for you! He has plans beyond what you can dream or imagine. (Ephesians 3:20) Only with sheer confidence in your relationship with God, will you experience your ultimate purpose.
Are you certain of God’s commitment to work on your behalf even when all you can see is a narrow steep path? Only with assurance in God’s ability to safely guide you beyond any obstacle, will you fulfill the purpose for which you were created. You were never designed to travel alone.
Hop on God’s back and let Him carry you. He is able to lead the way. (Prv. 3:5-6)
Spend time with God. Communicate with Him through faith. Resist fear, and watch your confidence build as you learn to trust God every day.
With God all things are possible. (Mark 10:27)
-Lucy Ann
Challenge Question:
Are you completely trusting God, or are there areas of your life where you are still tightly holding the reigns wanting to lead rather than follow?
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Sharon says
Hi Lucyann thank you for this journey of faith. The Lord is so good.I Love how He speaks in the natural revealing the spirutal. Blessing my sister.Sharon R.🌺
Lucy Ann says
Hi Sharon,
Yes…Faith surely is a journey. I am thankful God uses every opportunity to speak to us! Thanks for sharing!
Blessings!