4 Steps to Turn the Tide
So, how do we turn the tide when it comes to trust? Here are four, concrete steps that we need to start and maintain.
- Leadership – people want and need leadership when it comes to trust. You have to be willing to get out in front of it by being in front of people. You may not think yourself capable, but God wants to and can use you.The Lord said to him, “Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.”Exodus 4:11,12
- Progress – you rebuild trust through small steps. There is no “one-and-done” solution. Hearts and minds will not change overnight, demonstrate and communicate change over time. This alone is what will encourage people.So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart.Nehemiah 4:6
- Long-Term – your thinking, decision making, and communication need to be transported from the tyranny of the immediate to a deeply rooted view that values people and your core values more than a temporary blip.But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.Matthew 6:33
- Credibility – providing trustworthy, consistent information that is absolutely fact-based is critical to changing the distrust cycle. Anything less will rekindle distrust and cries of “I told you so.”All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.Matthew 5:37
It’s Not Too Late
Forty years ago, the American Bald Eagle was in danger of extinction. Habitat destruction, illegal hunting, and the contamination of food sources decimated the eagle population. A number of conservation actions taken by governmental agencies and the American public helped Bald Eagles make a remarkable recovery. Bald eagles no longer need Endangered Species Act protection because their population is protected, healthy, and growing.
Couldn’t this also become the story of trust? But for it to become a reality, it MUST start with God’s people.
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place.
2 Chronicles 7:14,15
Earn the trust of the people in your circle. Today, tomorrow, always.
This article on how to turn the tide and build trust originally appeared here, and is used by permission.
