Lesson 8

How do I deal with broken trust?

When your husband’s secret sexual sin is exposed, your mind is likely to ask:  How can I trust him again?  Broken trust is damaging to any relationship, but it can be especially devastating in a marriage.  The focus can turn to human imperfections and our sinful nature instead of resting in the perfect trust we have in Jesus Christ.

Kristi was obsessed with thoughts about her husband’s lies and deceit.  She wanted to respond in a godly way, but she was having trouble controlling her emotions.  She searched the Bible for verses on trust, then claimed Proverbs 3:5-6 as her foundation:  “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”  With confidence in the Lord, she began talking with her husband about rebuilding their level of trust one step at a time.  It wasn’t easy, but it led to greater openness and transparency.  “I had placed my husband high on a pedestal that should have been reserved for Jesus Christ.  He disappointed me, but I knew that Christ cared as much about his spiritual life as He did mine.  Rebuilding trust was not easy but it was an important journey for us to take.  Our marriage is better now than ever.”