Differences Between Belief and Trust

Belief vs Trust

“Belief” and “trust” are two words often associated with your faith. Are there any differences between these two terms? Perhaps several of you may say none, and some of you will say there are. I will support the latter. Though “belief” and “trust” are seemingly synonymous things, they have a varying degree of usage and meaning. It is like deciding which among “silly” and “stupid” is the worst. Obviously, the worst term is “stupid.” But between “belief” and “trust,” which among them holds the greater meaning when it comes to faith? Let us find out in this article and cite some examples displaying your belief and trust.

Let me present you the Googled definitions of “belief” and “trust.” “Belief” is a noun which means: (a) an acceptance that a statement is true or that something exists or (b) something one accepts as true or real; a firmly held opinion or conviction. On the other hand, “trust” can either be a noun or verb. As a noun, “trust” means “a firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something.”

As we will look at the above definitions, there is nothing much different about “belief” and “trust.” However, if one would think philosophically, we can say that “trust” holds a greater meaning than “belief.” Just like what other people say, your belief might only be lip service. You can easily say to someone that you believe him, but when you need to say that you trust him, it needs a deeper consideration. “Belief” is the product of the mind, while “trust” is the product of both the mind and heart.

When you are believing, it is just like you are expecting to earn something; but if you are trusting, you are surrendering all of yourself no matter what the outcome is – for the better or worse. However, without believing, you cannot reach the stage of trust. Belief is already halfway to trust. You only need to do it in action. If you don’t stop believing and hold firm in your convictions, the door of trust will open right before you.

We can display our belief and trust in dire situations. For example, the plane you are riding in will soon crash to the ground. You have a way to save yourself from dying – and that is to jump and release your parachute. For all of your life, you have believed that a parachute can save someone’s life when faced during this kind of situation. You have believed that a parachute can make you safely land. You have believed that a parachute can lessen the impact of your landing, preventing you from crushing your body. You have always believed that, but you are afraid of jumping. In this particular example, there is no display of trust.

For you to exhibit your trust in the equipment that could save your life, you should go ahead and jump and release it. But if you will just remain there standing and scared, your belief is not great enough to reach the stage of trust. See the differences between “belief” and “trust”? All it takes to believe is to say it; but all it takes to trust is to do it.

Summary:

1. “Belief” means: (a) an acceptance that a statement is true or that something exists or (b) something one accepts as true or real; a firmly held opinion or conviction.

2. “Trust” means “a firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something.”

3. “Belief” is the product of the mind, while “trust” is the product of both the mind and heart.

4. When you are believing, it is just like you are expecting to earn something; but if you are trusting, you are surrendering all of yourself no matter what the outcome is – for the better or worse.

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