How to Trust God, Even in Difficult Times

Life is full of twists and turns, with moments of joy and seasons of challenge. Many of us want to place our trust in God, and it often feels easier when life is going well. But in times of uncertainty or difficulty, trusting in God becomes even more essential. His steadfast and unchanging nature offers a solid foundation when everything else feels unstable.

There are times when life feels smooth and predictable—your job is fulfilling, your relationships are thriving, and your goals and health seem to align perfectly. But then, without warning, life shifts. A loved one falls ill, you lose your job, or someone you trust lets you down. Suddenly, the things you once relied on feel fragile and uncertain.

In these moments, it’s natural to question how to trust God. How do you believe in His goodness when you can’t make sense of your circumstances? How do you trust Him when the path forward is unclear? These are real and honest questions, and God is ready to meet you in them, guiding you through life’s challenges with His love and faithfulness.

What Does Trusting God Really Mean?

To trust is to place confidence in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something. Trusting God means believing in His reliability, His Word, His power, and His unwavering strength. The Bible assures us that God cannot lie, that He always keeps His promises, and that He loves us deeply, desiring good for our lives. Trusting Him is believing that what He says about Himself, the world, and you is true.

Trusting God goes beyond feelings—it is a deliberate choice to have faith in His Word, even when your emotions or circumstances suggest otherwise. Your feelings and circumstances are valid and important; God cares about them deeply. But they are not a firm foundation to base your life on, as they can shift in an instant. God, however, remains constant. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8), making Him the only truly reliable source of trust.

Trusting God doesn’t mean ignoring your emotions or denying reality. It’s not about pretending that everything is fine when it’s not. Instead, trusting God is choosing to believe in His promises and follow Him with faith and obedience, even when the path is difficult or unclear. It’s a life anchored in His unchanging character and steadfast love.

How to Trust God in Everyday Life

Now that you understand what it means to trust God, how can you put that trust into action in your daily life? Trusting God isn’t about pretending everything is fine—it’s about being honest, bringing your struggles to Him, and relying on His unchanging character even when life feels uncertain.

Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.
(1 Peter 5:7, New International Version)

You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in Your book.
(Psalm 56:8, New Living Translation)

Just as you’d confide in a trusted friend, you can bring your feelings, concerns, and challenges to God through prayer. Unlike anyone else, God is always reliable. He doesn’t get frustrated with your doubts or overwhelmed by your struggles. He listens, cares, and offers His love and guidance.

Here are seven practical ways to trust God every day:

1. Seek Truth in Scripture

The Bible is your anchor in uncertain times. It’s God’s unchanging Word, filled with promises and reminders of His faithfulness. When life feels shaky, turn to Scripture to realign your perspective and find strength in God’s truth.

“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
(John 8:32)

---

2. Confess Your Unbelief

Be honest with God about your doubts or struggles. Acknowledge His trustworthiness and ask for help where your faith feels weak. God desires honesty, and confessing your unbelief can strengthen your relationship with Him.

I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!
(Mark 9:24)

---

3. Share Your Concerns with Others

Lean on a trusted community of believers for support. Sharing your struggles with people who pursue God can encourage you, offer accountability, and remind you of God’s promises when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.
(Galatians 6:2)

---

4. Spend Time with God

Building trust takes time. Regularly spend time with God in prayer, worship, and reflection. Let Him shape your perspective and help you see your circumstances through His eyes.

Be still, and know that I am God.
(Psalm 46:10)

---

5. Look for Gratitude

In tough times, focus on the blessings around you. Gratitude shifts your perspective and reminds you of God’s goodness, even in the midst of difficulties.

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
(1 Thessalonians 5:18)

---

6. Walk in the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is your constant companion, offering guidance and comfort. Trust His leading, even if it’s one small step at a time. The Spirit reminds you that you’re never alone.

But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.
(John 14:26)

---

7. Wait on the Lord

Patience is an act of trust. While waiting for answers or resolution, rely on God’s perfect timing. He is always working for your good, even when you can’t see it yet.

But those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles.
(Isaiah 40:31)

When Trust Feels Difficult

God remains trustworthy, even when your prayers seem unanswered or your struggles persist longer than you hoped. Life is unpredictable, and hardships can push you to the edge of your strength. So, what can you do in those moments?

Wait, trust, and remember that God loves you. He promises to sustain you, provide for you, and walk with you through every trial. Jesus reminded His followers that challenges are inevitable (John 16:33), but He also assured them of His constant presence (Matthew 28:20).

God doesn’t ask for blind trust; He invites you to grow in trust as you come to know Him. Spend time with Him through prayer and Scripture, discovering His unwavering faithfulness. The Bible reveals countless examples of God working for good, even in the most difficult circumstances.

The apostle Paul reminds us in Romans that while life may bring hardship and our bodies may falter, God’s purpose remains.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.
(Romans 8:28, NIV)

In moments of doubt, hold on to His promises. Reflect on His faithfulness throughout your life. Even when uncertainty clouds your view, keep seeking Him, and He will continue to reveal His trustworthiness.