Pew Research Center did a study on trust in a survey of 10,618 U.S. adults, conducted November 27-December 10, 2018. Here are some excerpts from an article describing the findings. “Moreover, some see fading trust as a sign of cultural sickness and national decline. Some also tie it to what they perceive to be increased loneliness and excessive individualism. About half of Americans (49%) link the decline in interpersonal trust to a belief that people are not as reliable as they used to be. Many ascribe shrinking trust to a political culture they believe is broken and spawns suspicion, even cynicism, about the ability of others to distinguish fact from fiction.
In a comment typical of the views expressed by many people of different political leanings, ages and educational backgrounds, one participant in a new Pew Research Center survey said, “Many people no longer think the federal government can actually be a force for good or change in their lives. This kind of apathy and disengagement will lead to an even worse and less representative government.” Another addressed the issue of fading interpersonal trust saying, “As a democracy founded on the principle of E Pluribus Unum, the fact that we are divided and can’t trust sound facts means we have lost our confidence in each other.”
This was written before the COVID-19 pandemic, presidential election and other events that continued to erode trust. With social media algorithms also coming under fire for manipulating the information you see, trust is being eroded on all sides. What glimmer of hope that as Americans we could pull together and trust is fleeting? With the glut of information available, the responsibility is left to us to determine what is right and what is wrong. Everyone believes what tickles their ear or follows their own preconceived notions. What is our response to all of this? How do Christians act when trust in anything is at an all-time low?
First, we continue to portray Christ-like attributes in our lives. “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). We don’t work and trust at a national level. We work with individuals pointing them to the true source of knowledge.
Second, we put our trust in God, not in man or manmade institutions. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight” (Prov. 3:5-6). We need to rely on God, not a government or municipality. We follow after the One that has the power of heaven at His disposal. Government has always done what is in their best interest. God’s promise is to keep us on a straight path.