Overcoming Obstacles to Trust God Fully

We sing songs like “I Surrender All” and “I Will Trust in You,” but deep down, many of us still hold back.

We believe in God—but trusting Him fully? That’s another story.

So let’s get honest: What’s holding you back from fully trusting God?

The Struggle Is Real

We all have fears and doubts that make surrender feel risky. Maybe you’re afraid God’s plan won’t match your own. Maybe you’ve prayed for things in the past and felt disappointed. Maybe trusting means letting go of something you’ve been holding tightly—your career, your children, your finances, your future.

And let’s face it: trust requires vulnerability. It’s the bold act of saying, “God, I’m not in control… and I’m okay with that.”

That’s easier said than done.

Common Roadblocks to Trusting God

If you’re struggling to trust God, you’re not alone. Here are a few common obstacles that often get in the way:

1. Fear of Losing Control

Many of us find security in control. But control is an illusion. Trusting God means surrendering our plans, preferences, and timing—and believing His are better.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5)

2. Past Disappointment

Have you ever felt like God didn’t come through? Those moments can leave wounds. But often, what we see as “unanswered” prayers were really “better” answers in disguise—or invitations to deeper faith.

3. Doubt in God’s Goodness

We may believe God is powerful, but do we believe He’s good? If we question His heart toward us, we’ll struggle to hand over ours. Remember: His love was proven on the cross (Romans 5:8).

4. The Need for Certainty

We want guarantees. We want to know the outcome. But trust isn’t about certainty—it’s about confidence in God’s character. He may not show us the whole map, but He gives us the next step.

How to Start Trusting God More Fully

So how do we move from hesitation to wholehearted surrender?

1. Name What You’re Holding Back

Be honest. Is it your job? Your family? A future dream? A painful memory? Naming it helps you release it.

2. Talk to God About It

Don’t fake it. God can handle your fears, frustrations, and doubts. Read the Psalms—David poured out his soul honestly, and God called him “a man after My heart.”

3. Remember His Track Record

Make a list of times God has been faithful. Look back to move forward. He was trustworthy then—He will be trustworthy now.

4. Take One Step of Obedience

Trust grows as you act on it. You don’t need to leap the whole distance—just take the next right step. God meets you there.

5. Surround Yourself with Faith Builders

Talk with others who’ve learned to trust God through hard seasons. Their testimonies can strengthen your own.

Trust Is a Journey, Not a Switch

Fully trusting God doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a lifelong process of loosening your grip and growing your faith.

But here’s the beautiful part: God doesn’t wait for your trust to be perfect—He just asks you to bring what you have. A mustard seed will do (Matthew 17:20).

So ask yourself today:
What’s one thing I’m holding back from God?
And then pray:

“Lord, help me trust You with this, too.”

Because life with God is best lived with open hands—and a surrendered heart.