Put your trust in no man for man will deceive you

        Trust is a crucial part of human relationships. We trust family members, leaders, friends, and even strangers to keep their word, support us, and lead us well. But while trust is necessary, the Bible warns us not to place our ultimate confidence in people. The saying “Put your trust in no man, for man will deceive you” reflects a deep spiritual truth: human beings are fallible, but God is not.

1. The Deceptive Nature of Man

        The Bible makes it clear that man is not always trustworthy. Our hearts, if not surrendered to God, are prone to deceit and selfishness. Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked: who can know it?” Even those with good intentions can mislead others through error, weakness, or fear.

        Many have placed their hopes in leaders, spouses, or friends, only to be disappointed. Betrayal, dishonesty, or human error can shake our faith in people. But Scripture prepares us for this reality—not so we become cynical, but so we direct our trust to the One who never fails.

2. The Danger of Trusting in Man Over God

        Jeremiah 17:5 declares, “Cursed is the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord.” This verse highlights the spiritual danger of depending on human strength while neglecting God. When we rely solely on others for guidance, provision, or security, we often drift from trusting God.

        King Saul is an example of this. Instead of obeying God’s command, he feared the people's opinion and lost God’s favor (1 Samuel 15:24). His downfall teaches us that leaning on human approval or wisdom can lead to disobedience and destruction.

3. Trusting God Brings Stability

        In contrast, those who trust in the Lord are described as blessed and unshakable. Psalm 125:1 says, “They that trust in the Lord shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth forever.” Unlike men, God is faithful, true, and constant. He never lies, changes, or fails.

        Trusting in God does not mean we isolate ourselves or never accept help from people. It means that our hope, peace, and direction come from Him first. People can be a channel of God’s provision, but they must never replace God as the source.

4. Discernment in Relationships

        Because people can deceive—whether intentionally or not—we are called to walk in spiritual discernment. 1 John 4:1 advises, “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”

        This applies not only to preachers but also to friends, influencers, and mentors. Before accepting advice or direction, we should weigh it against the Word of God and seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

5. Trusting God Builds Deeper Faith

        When you place your trust in God instead of people, you grow spiritually. Your peace is no longer tied to others’ behavior. Your identity is rooted in Christ. Your hope is anchored in something eternal.

        Even when people let you down, you can forgive them because your foundation is unshaken. This kind of faith builds resilience, maturity, and intimacy with God.

Prayer:

    Heavenly Father, thank You for being the One I can always trust. Forgive me for the times I placed more confidence in people than in You. Help me to discern truth from deception and keep my heart anchored in Your Word. Teach me to love people without idolizing them, and to trust You above all else. In Jesus’ name, Amen.