Trust is one of the first things that breaks when someone experiences abuse. The people who should have been safe, weren’t. The words that were meant to protect, harmed. The promises that were supposed to hold, shattered. It’s no wonder that rebuilding trust in others, in ourselves, and even in God can feel impossible.
But healing isn’t about pretending it didn’t happen. It’s about learning, little by little, that trust can be rebuilt, not in the same way, but in a deeper, safer, more grounded way.
Trusting God Again
When you’ve been through trauma, even faith can feel complicated. You might wonder, “Where was God when I was hurting?” That question is more common – and more honest – than many realise.
Yet throughout Scripture, we see a God who draws near to the brokenhearted:
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18
God doesn’t rush us to trust Him again. He patiently waits, gently reminding us that He never left, even when others did.
Trusting Others Carefully
Healing doesn’t mean opening your heart to everyone again. Boundaries are not walls, they’re gates. They protect us while still allowing safe people in.
Ask God for discernment about who deserves your trust and who hasn’t yet earned it. Safe people show consistency, humility, and will respect your limits.
Learning to Trust Yourself
Abuse can silence intuition and create self-doubt. You might question your own judgment or feel anxious about making decisions. But healing includes learning to listen to yourself again and trusting your own thoughts.
For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. – 2 Timothy 1:7
One Step at a Time
Rebuilding trust is not a single event, it’s a journey. Be patient with yourself. God isn’t disappointed by your hesitations; He understands them. Healing happens in small steps: one safe conversation, one honest prayer, one boundary honoured.
He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge. – Psalm 91:4
You don’t need to rush. You just need to keep going; one brave, faith-filled step at a time.
Final Reflection:
You may never trust in the same way again and that’s okay. What’s being rebuilt now is stronger, wiser, and rooted in God’s truth. Trust doesn’t erase the past; it transforms it into a testimony of His faithfulness.
Journalling prompts:
Take some time after reading to reflect and write:
- What makes it hardest for you to trust God right now?
- What does a “safe person” look like to you?
- Who in your life demonstrates qualities of safety and respect?
- When have you ignored your gut feeling in the past, and what did you learn from that?
- How can you begin to trust your instincts again?
You Are Not Alone
If you are experiencing or have experienced domestic abuse and would like someone to talk to or to signpost to available resources and services, we’re here to support you.
Contact Sarah on 07853 216993 or email Restored@livingsprings.cc
