Healing the Heart:
Overcoming fear of trusting again:
We reflect on a quiet struggle that many carry deep within — the fear of trusting others, known as pistanthrophobia. While it may be a word unfamiliar to some, the feelings it describes are not. It is the fear of opening one’s heart, the hesitation to let others in, and the deep-rooted doubt that love and trust can be safe again. But we are not without hope, for God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).
The Root:
This fear often grows from the soil of past hurts — broken relationships, betrayal, or emotional wounds that never fully healed. For some, the scars of being let down in love have hardened into a protective wall. And while this wall may shield from pain, it also locks out joy, companionship, and connection.
This response is human — to retreat when wounded, to guard ourselves from more harm. But it becomes a burden when it interferes with how God designed us to live: in relationship, in fellowship, and in trust.
The Bible teaches us that trust is not about never being hurt — it is about choosing to love even when it requires vulnerability. (Proverbs 3:5) reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” When our trust in people falters, we are called to root ourselves first in God’s unfailing love. From that foundation, we can begin to rebuild trust with others.
Jesus HIMSELF entrusted HIS heart to imperfect people. HE was betrayed, denied, and abandoned — and yet, HE never stopped loving. We are not called to reckless openness, but to a prayerful, discerning trust that reflects Christ’s love and wisdom.
Friends, pistanthrophobia may whisper that love is unsafe and people cannot be trusted. But God’s Word declares otherwise. You were made for love — not just to give it, but to receive it. Don’t let the past rob you of the blessings God has in store. Trust again, not because people are perfect, but because God is faithful.
Previously mentioned Scripture.
2 Timothy 1:7
New International Version
7 “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”
2 Timothy 1:7
King James Version
7 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”
2 Timothy 1:7
Living Bible
7 “For the Holy Spirit, God’s gift, does not want you to be afraid of people, but to be wise and strong, and to love them and enjoy being with them.”
Proverbs 3:5
New International Version
5 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;”
Proverbs 3:5
King James Version
5 “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.”
Proverbs 3:5
Living Bible
4-5 “If you want favor with both God and man, and a reputation for good judgment and common sense, then trust the Lord completely; don’t ever trust yourself.”