“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?” – Jeremiah 17:9
Bible Verses About Broken Trust
The Nature of Trust
Trust is a fundamental part of any relationship, whether between friends, family, or in our relationship with God. We can easily get hurt when trust is broken. The Bible acknowledges the human condition, pointing out how easily we can be deceived. As we navigate through life, it is important to understand what true trust looks like and to seek guidance from scripture on how to build and restore it. In examining the depths of broken trust, we uncover truths about our own hearts and the way God interacts with us in moments of betrayal and hurt.
Proverbs 3:5
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5
Jeremiah 17:7
“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.” – Jeremiah 17:7
Psalm 118:8
“It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans.” – Psalm 118:8
Proverbs 29:25
“Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.” – Proverbs 29:25
Psalm 56:4
“In God, whose word I praise – in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” – Psalm 56:4
Broken trust can lead to feelings of betrayal, disappointment, and sadness. When someone we relied on lets us down, it can shake the very foundation of our relationships. However, it is essential for us to remember that God is the ultimate source of trust. He never fails us, even when humans do. In times of heartbreak, we must turn to His word for healing and comfort. The Bible reminds us that while people may disappoint us, God is always faithful to keep His promises, and we can find solace in His unfailing love during our most trying times.
Proverbs 12:22
“The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.” – Proverbs 12:22
Psalm 41:9
“Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me.” – Psalm 41:9
Micah 7:5
“Do not trust a neighbor; put no confidence in a friend. Even with the woman who lies in your embrace, guard the words of your lips.” – Micah 7:5
Luke 17:1
“Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Things that cause people to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come.'” – Luke 17:1
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'” – 1 Corinthians 15:33
Restoration of Trust
Though broken trust can be painful, the possibility for restoration exists. With the proper guidance and sincere contrition, it is possible for trust to be rebuilt. In the scriptures, we find examples of forgiveness and reconciliation that encourage us that healing is possible even from what feels like irreparable harm. As we work to restore trust, we must be willing to forgive and communicate honestly with one another. God calls us to a place of reconciliation, reminding us that He desires unity and harmony among His people.
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13
Matthew 18:21-22
“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times!'” – Matthew 18:21-22
Galatians 6:1
“Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.” – Galatians 6:1
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16
Trust in God
When human trust is broken, it can be reaffirming to turn our focus back to our relationship with God. We may find joy and comfort in the promises He gives us through Scripture. He invites us to cast our worries upon Him and reminds us of His unchanging nature and faithfulness. Trusting in God allows us to find peace even in the midst of turmoil and hurt, assuring us that we are not alone in our struggles. By cultivating our trust in God, we can weather the storms that come our way with hope in His unwavering love.
Isaiah 26:3
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you.” – Isaiah 26:3
Psalm 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.” – Psalm 37:5
Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13
Hebrews 11:1
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” – Hebrews 11:1
Proverbs 16:3
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” – Proverbs 16:3
Healing from Betrayal
In moments of betrayal, our hearts can feel shattered. Nevertheless, we can find solace and healing through our relationship with God and by engaging with His word. Scripture encourages us to bring our pain to Him and to seek comfort in His presence. When we acknowledge the hurt and allow space for healing, we can gradually start to mend our hearts and move forward. We also learn the importance of seeking God’s wisdom as we work through our feelings, reminding us that healing takes time, but it is possible with faith.
Psalm 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18
Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
Isaiah 61:1
“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness