Bridges, 2008. Chapter 11, "Trusting God for Who You Are"

Chapter 11, “Trusting God for Who You Are” pp. 171-186

Bridges observes that we all have strengths and weaknesses. Often we are troubled by our weaknesses. Not only are we troubled by outside forces, we also need to recognize that God our creator made us as we are and cares for us in every circumstance. Psalm 139:13-16 helps us view our relation to the creator well. Bridges uses themes from that passage to structure the remainder of the chapter.

First, “God Made Me Who I Am” (p. 172). We are not the result of blind forces but of God’s loving creation. Even our mind and emotions are God’s creation. True, as we are sinful by nature we need to pray for change. But the way God created us is exactly according to his wisdom and love, limitations and all.

Second, we trust God for what we are (p. 177). He created us with a plan, not just for how long we live but for all we do. he guides us here and there. He makes us who we are. He guides us to do what we do. As we learn to trust God he shows us that all we do is part of his plan. here bridges comes very close to articulating the Reformation doctrine of vocation. Whatever area the Lord uses us in, he uses us for the good of his kingdom.

Third, we trust the Lord to guide us (p. 182). Often we worry about finding God’s will and doing it. Yet the Bible shows God guiding his people based on his good pleasure and sovereign ability. Wherever we go, whatever we do, we can trust God to lead us.