Trusting the Father When I Don’t Understand

Published by helloredds@gmail.com on 03/18/202503/18/2025

Trusting the Father When I Don’t Understand

The tune of Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus’ plays softly in the background as I tackle the day’s tasks before me.

Deadlines loom, messages piling in my inbox scream for my attention, and a list of personal needs must be addressed.

But the song catches my attention and its familiar lyrics slip easily from my tongue.

Tis’ so sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to take him at his word;
Just to rest upon His promise;
And, Just to know, “Thus saith the Lord.”

A Holy Moment 

I’m ushered into a holy moment—and I don’t want to miss it.

The Lord prompts me to answer this question: Do I—and can I—trust Jesus?

Memories flood my mind.

All the hard trials that I didn’t—and still don’t fully—understand. My father’s debilitating health began during my teenage years and eventually led to medication dependency. It wrecked our family.

Also, my chronic illness diagnosis at age twenty-six and all the dreams shattered by the years I suffered with it. Times of financial upheaval and anxiety about the future— the list could go on. I bet yours could, too.

Then I recall verses I memorized as a youth: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” (Prov. 3:5-6).

Searching

And so, I search for a deeper understanding of this text. The word “trust” in the Hebrew translation is batah. It means to have confidence in—or reliance on—what is secure.

Truly, I find no confidence in myself and understand I cannot rely on what I see, feel, or touch in this life. My security can—and will—only come from a deep leaning on my Father rather than my own understanding.

Looking back over all the struggles I’ve endured in my life, the hand of God led me in safety each step along the way. How do we know the Lord can be trusted? He has proven it time and time again—and He will continue to deliver what He promises.

Trusting the Father When I Don’t Understand

The Father will do the same for you. He keeps His promises by giving His presence—and guidance— along the bumpy, curvy paths of life. Dear one, let’s not lean on our own understanding. Its imperfection is flawed and will fail us.

But God’s way is perfect and flawless. And while we may not fully grasp His ways, we can rely on Him for safety and security. Hold on to this good news!

Prayer:

Dear Father, thank You for being trustworthy in all Your ways. When I don’t understand what’s going on around me, help me to rely on—and trust in—Your infinite wisdom. I am secure in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Find Comfort & More on Trusting the Father When I Don’t Understand

Find comfort in God’s perfect Fatherhood by ordering a copy of 40 Days to God, My Father: Finding Shelter in the Heart of God by Rosann Coulon. This devotional will guide you on a journey to knowing the love, faithfulness, and goodness of the Lord.

About the Author: Rosann Coulon

Rosann Coulon is the author of the book 40 Days to God, My Father: Finding Shelter in the Heart of God.

She has contributed articles to The Gospel Coalition, The Daily Grace Co., Core Christianity, and other publications.

Also, she is the founder of Leaving a Well Ministries whose mission is to share biblical hope with hurting hearts by providing Christ-centered resources. Visit her at www.leavingawell.com to receive free inspirational content.

You can also connect with her at instagram.com/rosann_coulon. 

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