_2025, Behold I do a new thing...._ *The blessing of trust* *The Characteristics of Trust* Scripture Jeremiah 17:7-8, "But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit." Reflection When we trust in God, we exhibit certain characteristics. We become like a tree planted by the water, with roots that go deep into God's Word and His presence. We become stable and secure, unshakeable by the circumstances of life. Some of the characteristics of trust include: 1. *Dependence*: Trust involves depending on God's power and provision. We recognize that we can't do everything on our own and that we need God's help. 2. *Confidence*: Trust involves having confidence in God's sovereignty and authority. We believe that God is in control and that He has our best interests at heart. 3. *Security*: Trust involves feeling secure and protected from destruction. We know that God is our rock and our refuge, and that He will keep us safe. 4. *Stability*: Trust involves being stable and unshakeable, like a tree planted by the water. We're not easily swayed by the circumstances of life, and we remain steadfast in our faith. 5. *Fruitfulness*: Trust involves continuing to bear fruit, even in times of challenge or difficulty. We remain productive and fruitful, even when things get tough. Additional Scripture - Psalm 37:3-5, "Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this." - Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Prayer Dear Lord, help me to develop the characteristics of trust in my life. Give me dependence on Your power and provision, confidence in Your sovereignty and authority, security in Your protection, stability in Your presence, and fruitfulness in Your Spirit. Action Step Take a few minutes to reflect on which of the characteristics of trust you need to work on. Is it dependence, confidence, security, stability, or fruitfulness? Write down some practical ways you can develop these characteristics in your life. Questions for Reflection - Which of the characteristics of trust do I need to work on? - What are some practical ways I can develop these characteristics in my life? - How can I remain stable and unshakeable in my faith, even when things get tough? *Destiny Discipleship Ministries* _Maximizing God's Given Potential_