“What qualifies him to make that statement? In context, why do you trust him?”
The question was from an old and trusted friend. There was nothing that he had to gain from my answer. He was not directly impacted by my response. His only motive was to be a friend. In context, he was asking me the questions that I should have asked myself if I had not already done so.
As I think back on the question six plus years ago, I find that I often hear it as if he is standing near me, looking out for me especially in the blind spots of my life. In recent replays of the echo, I caught myself taking the dual checkpoints with me into every conversation and debate. In applying the questions, the explicit words do not matter. The two questions are a process of validating the background and intent of others, especially when it comes to matters of the heart.
One’s history matters. It speaks of values, priorities, and consistency. When combined with experience, trust has an opportunity to survive, even grow. There is room for mistakes and learning, however they are best shown through action.
One’s intent matters. The dimension of action that I often overlook is intent. It is a mistake to presume positive intent just because the outcome was or is desirable. The linkage between intent, process and action, and outcome with ability to trust is always there.
Freedom and respect are friends that travel well together. As much as we need the counsel of others, the walk we have with others is even more important! Without the journey, the fragile nature of trust cannot grow stronger. It is in the willingness to walk together that the wisdom is most easily shared.
As I pay attention to wisdom that lingers, I realize I often ignore the Spirit that is always on my side; “He paid the ransom for his people, He ordered his Covenant kept forever. He’s so personal and holy, worthy of our respect.” (Psalm 111.09) While true yesterday, not today.
