Jerry Bridges, a name synonymous with wisdom, integrity, and a deep understanding of the Christian faith. As I sat across from him, preparing to delve into the depths of his knowledge and experiences, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. This was a man who had dedicated his life to teaching and writing, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives around the world. From his insightful books on holiness and grace, to his profound teachings on the gospel and sanctification, Jerry Bridges had become a trusted voice of wisdom for believers everywhere. I knew that this conversation would be a rare opportunity to glean from the wealth of his wisdom and gain a deeper understanding of the Christian life. Thus, with pen and paper in hand, I eagerly began my interview with Jerry Bridges, ready to uncover the remarkable insights he had to offer.
Jerry Bridges was an influential American author, speaker, and theologian known for his profound understanding of biblical truths and his ability to communicate them in a practical and relatable manner. Born on December 4, 1929, in Tyler, Texas, Bridges developed a deep passion for studying and teaching God’s Word, which led him to dedicate his life to sharing the transformative power of the gospel with believers around the world. Through his numerous books and speaking engagements, Bridges touched the lives of countless individuals, equipping them with timeless wisdom and encouraging them to a deeper walk with Christ. His clear and uncompromising teachings on topics such as holiness, grace, and God’s sovereignty have left a lasting impact on the Christian community, making him a trusted and beloved resource for seekers of truth. With his humble demeanor and unwavering commitment to biblical integrity, Jerry Bridges left behind a rich legacy that continues to guide and inspire believers to this day.
10 Thought-Provoking Questions with Jerry Bridges
1. Can you provide ten Trusting God by Jerry Bridges quotes to our readers?
Trusting God quotes as follows:
a) “Trusting God does not mean we will not have anxiety or fear. It means trusting Him in the midst of our anxiety and fear.”
b) “Trusting God means acknowledging His sovereignty and believing that He is in control of every aspect of our lives.”
c) “Trusting God requires us to let go of our own understanding and instead rely on His wisdom and guidance.”
d) “Trusting God means embracing His unconditional love and knowing that He will never leave nor forsake us.”
e) “Trusting God involves surrendering our desires and plans to His perfect will.”
f) “Trusting God means finding our ultimate satisfaction and joy in Him alone, rather than in the things of this world.”
g) “Trusting God is a daily choice, a constant surrendering of our lives to His care and provision.”
h) “Trusting God enables us to face uncertainty and trials with a steadfast hope and peace that surpasses all understanding.”
i) “Trusting God means believing that He is faithful to His promises and will fulfill them in His perfect timing.”
j) “Trusting God requires us to trust His character, knowing that He is good, just, and loving in all that He does.”
2.What inspired you to write “Trusting God”? Can you share the story behind the book and explain why you felt compelled to explore the topics within it?
The inspiration behind writing “Trusting God” stemmed from my own personal journey of faith and the deep desire to help others develop a steadfast trust in God amidst life’s challenges. Throughout my life, I faced various trials and hardships that tested my faith and left me questioning God’s sovereignty and goodness. However, as I delved into the Scriptures and sought God’s wisdom, I discovered profound truths about His character and faithfulness.
The story behind the book lies in my recognition that many believers, including myself, struggled with trusting God fully in difficult circumstances. I felt compelled to explore this topic because I realized that our faith in God’s ultimate goodness and sovereignty greatly influences how we navigate the trials of life. Writing “Trusting God” provided a platform for me to share the biblical principles and truths that brought me peace and deepened my trust in God.
By addressing the topics of God’s sovereignty, His wisdom, and His love, I aimed to help readers understand that they can rely on God’s faithfulness even when life seems uncertain or unfair. Through this book, I desired to guide believers towards a greater trust in God and a deeper relationship with Him, ultimately leading to a stronger foundation for their faith.
3.Your book offers reassurance and encouragement for those facing trials and uncertainties. Can you elaborate on some of the key principles and truths you present for cultivating trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness, as outlined in “Trusting God”?
In my book “Trusting God,” I provide reassurance and encouragement for individuals experiencing trials and uncertainties by highlighting key principles and truths that help cultivate trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness. One significant principle is recognizing that God is in control of all things, even during the most challenging circumstances. This understanding allows us to rely on His perfect wisdom and trust that He works all things together for our ultimate good.
Another important truth presented is that God is always faithful and trustworthy. We can rely on His promises and rest in the assurance that He will never abandon us, no matter how difficult our situation may be. Developing a deep understanding of His character and the truth of His Word strengthens our trust in His sovereignty.
Additionally, I emphasize the need to surrender to God’s will, even when it doesn’t align with our desires or expectations. Through surrender, we acknowledge that His plans are higher and wiser than ours, and we can find peace in His perfect outcomes.
Ultimately, the key principles and truths outlined in “Trusting God” guide readers towards a deeper trust in His sovereignty, goodness, and faithfulness.
4.”Trusting God” emphasizes the importance of faith in God’s character and promises. How can individuals deepen their trust in God and find peace amidst life’s challenges, as advocated in your book?
In my book “Trusting God,” I emphasize the significance of having faith in God’s character and promises. To deepen one’s trust in God and find peace amidst life’s challenges, I would suggest a few key practices. Firstly, individuals should consistently immerse themselves in God’s Word, seeking to understand His nature, His faithfulness, and the promises He has made to His people throughout history. This will establish a solid foundation for trust.
Additionally, prayer plays a vital role in deepening our trust in God. By openly and honestly pouring out our hearts to Him, we acknowledge our dependence on His guidance and surrender control over our circumstances. This cultivates trust and peace in knowing that God hears us and is actively working in our lives.
Furthermore, genuine community and fellowship with other believers is crucial. Surrounding ourselves with like-minded individuals who can encourage, support, and testify to God’s faithfulness can greatly strengthen our trust in Him.
Ultimately, the journey of deepening trust in God requires a daily commitment to seek Him, study His Word, and surrender our worries and anxieties to Him. In doing so, we can experience the peace that surpasses all understanding even amidst life’s most challenging moments.
5.In your book, you discuss the concept of God’s providence and its implications for believers’ lives. Can you provide insights on how trusting in God’s providence can reshape our perspective on adversity and suffering, as discussed in “Trusting God”?
In “Trusting God,” I delve into the concept of God’s providence and its transformative power on believers’ lives, particularly when it comes to our perspective on adversity and suffering. Trusting in God’s providence fundamentally means acknowledging that He is in complete control of all events and circumstances, and that He works all things according to His perfect plan and purpose.
When we fully grasp this truth, our perspective on adversity and suffering drastically changes. Instead of viewing them as random or pointless, we understand that they are opportunities for growth, refinement, and ultimately drawing closer to God. Trusting in God’s providence shifts our focus from simply seeking relief from suffering to seeking His wisdom, guidance, and strength in the midst of it.
Moreover, this perspective enables us to trust that God, who is infinitely wise and loving, uses adversity and suffering for our ultimate good. We no longer need to fear or despair in these difficulties because we know that God is with us, working all things together for our benefit.
Ultimately, when we embrace the concept of God’s providence and fully trust in Him, our perspective on adversity and suffering changes from a sense of dread or confusion to one of hope, growth, and peace.
6.Your teachings often emphasize the value of obedience and surrender in trusting God’s plan. How can individuals align their will with God’s and walk in obedience to His Word, as outlined in your book?
Aligning one’s will with God’s and walking in obedience to His Word requires a deliberate and ongoing effort. It begins by recognizing that God’s plan is perfect and trusting in His wisdom and goodness. Surrendering our own desires and submitting to His guidance is key. Cultivating a deep and personal relationship with God through prayer, studying Scripture, and meditating on His truth is crucial. This helps us understand His character and aligns our desires with His. We must also allow the Holy Spirit to work in us, transforming our hearts and renewing our minds.
Practically, this means actively seeking God’s will in every decision and acting in obedience to what is revealed in His Word. It involves aligning our thoughts, attitudes, and actions with His teachings, even when it goes against our own desires or cultural norms. We must be willing to sacrifice our own ambitions and preferences, humbling ourselves before God’s authority. This requires daily surrender and reliance on His grace and strength.
Ultimately, living in obedience to God’s Word is a lifelong journey. It requires a humble and teachable heart, constant reliance on the Holy Spirit, and a willingness to learn and grow in our understanding and application of His truth.
7.”Trusting God” offers practical examples and biblical wisdom for trusting God in all circumstances. Can you share some stories or anecdotes that illustrate the transformative power of trusting God, as described in your book?
In my book, “Trusting God,” I aim to provide practical examples and biblical wisdom for trusting God in all circumstances. One transformative story that comes to mind is that of a close friend of mine who faced a sudden financial crisis. This individual had lost their job, and despite diligent efforts, was unable to find work for several months. In the face of mounting bills and uncertainty, they chose to trust God wholeheartedly, relying on His provision and faithfulness.
During this challenging season, my friend experienced numerous instances of unexpected help and provision. Job opportunities appeared out of nowhere, old debts were forgiven, and friends and family rallied together to support them financially and emotionally. Through this journey, my friend discovered the transformative power of trusting God’s character and faithfulness even when circumstances seemed dire. They witnessed firsthand God’s ability to provide, bless, and work in ways beyond comprehension.
Another anecdote comes from my own life, when my family faced a health crisis. My wife was diagnosed with a serious illness, and the road ahead seemed overwhelming. Yet, as we leaned on God and trusted in His plan, we witnessed the transformative power of trusting Him in difficulties. We were reminded of His unfailing love and experienced His peace that surpasses all understanding throughout the entire journey.
These stories highlight the transformative power of trusting God, as they demonstrate how faith in His sovereignty and goodness can lead to unexpected blessings, peace, and a deeper relationship with Him.
8.Your book provides a framework for developing unwavering trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness. Can you describe the transformative journey that readers can embark on by applying the principles outlined in “Trusting God”?
In my book “Trusting God,” I provide readers with a framework for developing unwavering trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness. By applying the principles outlined in the book, readers can embark on a transformative journey of deeper faith and reliance on God.
Firstly, readers will learn to understand that God is not only supremely in control of every situation but also intimately involved in their lives. This realization brings a sense of peace and freedom from their anxieties and worries.
Secondly, readers will be encouraged to acknowledge and accept that God’s ways are higher than our ways, and His timing is perfect. This understanding enables them to surrender their desires and plans, trusting that God’s plans are always for their ultimate good.
Thirdly, readers will embrace the truth that God is always faithful and can be trusted even in the most challenging circumstances. This unwavering trust will allow them to find strength and hope amidst adversity.
Through these principles and concepts, readers will experience a renewed perspective on life, finding joy in the midst of trials and peace in times of uncertainty. The transformative journey will lead them to a deeper relationship with God, as they learn to fully rely on His sovereignty and goodness.
9.”Trusting God” offers hope and comfort for those grappling with uncertainty and doubt. Can you discuss the broader impact of your work for strengthening believers’ faith and resilience in today’s world?
I would respond to the question stating that the concept of “Trusting God” indeed provides hope and comfort to individuals dealing with uncertainty and doubt. In my work, I have emphasized the importance of trusting in God’s character, sovereignty, and the promises found in His Word. By deepening one’s trust in God, individuals can find reassurance in the belief that He is in control, even amidst life’s uncertainties.
Trusting God has a broader impact on strengthening believers’ faith and resilience in today’s world. In a world filled with constant change, turmoil, and trials, having an unwavering trust in God enables believers to navigate through difficult circumstances with a sense of peace and security. Trusting God fosters resilience, allowing believers to persevere and find joy even in the midst of trials.
Moreover, as believers consistently demonstrate trust in God, their faith becomes a compelling testimony to others. They exemplify a genuine dependence on God rather than relying on their own strength or the fleeting security offered by the world. By bearing witness to the transformative power of trusting in God, believers can inspire and encourage others to deepen their own faith and rely on Him amidst uncertainty and doubt.
10. Can you recommend more books like Trusting God?
a) “The Problem of Pain” by C.S. Lewis: In this thought-provoking book, Lewis explores the concept of pain and suffering, offering insights into how to trust God even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
b) “When God Doesn’t Fix It” by Laura Story: Story shares her personal journey of navigating through unexpected challenges, demonstrating how trusting God can bring about transformation and a deeper relationship with Him.
c) “Trusting the Shepherd” by H.B. London Jr. and Neil B. Wiseman: This book explores the theme of trust in various aspects of life, focusing on the analogy of God as a shepherd and how we can trust His guidance and provision.
b) “Trusting God Even When Life Hurts” by Jerry Bridges: Another powerful book by Jerry Bridges, this work delves into the topic of trust amidst pain and suffering, providing practical insights and encouragement to deepen our faith in God’s sovereignty.
a) “The Hiding Place” by Corrie ten Boom: This autobiographical account follows Corrie ten Boom’s experiences during World War II, highlighting her unwavering trust in God even in the midst of the Holocaust, serving as a testament to the power of trust in God’s plan.