Think of the people you trust the most. How did they earn that place in your life? You probably don’t remember one big moment when you became willing to share all your secrets with them. That’s not how it usually works. Brene Brown explains, “Trust is the stacking and layering of small moments, and reciprocal vulnerability over time. Trust and vulnerability grow together.”
What is vulnerability in this context? Brene defines it as “uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure.” Reaching closeness in any relationship will require one courageous step at a time, to reveal more of yourself and trust the other. “To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything and your heart will be wrung and possibly broken,” wrote C.S. Lewis.
The need for courage extends to your relationship with God. He already took a giant leap of vulnerability for us–is there anything more vulnerable than hanging naked on a cross for someone who doesn’t love you? I encourage you to answer Him with a step of trust today. Unclench your hands from that dream and ask Him what He is dreaming for you. Sometimes His answer will break your heart, but in the end you’ll see how He gave you better than what you deserved, asked for, or even imagined. He always proves Himself worthy of our trust.
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