Social trust is a belief in the honesty, reliability, and integrity of others. How to build social trust is a question that has bedeviled not only philosophers and social scientists, but ministers and theologians as well. It is the glue that helps to hold a rickety society together, sometimes drying up and cracking.
Over the past four decades, although there has not been much difference in the level of social trust, what should concern us is the fact that almost half of our society has little trust in others. According to a recent Pew survey, the major differences are in age, race, ethnic group, and income.
The survey only asked some basic questions on trust and fairness but as a society we need to understand why almost half of us have little trust in others. Race and income offer some clues, but so do the data on relationships. People who live in community, such as small towns or churches, are more trusting. Our faith communities help to create a bond between people. That’s as it should be, right?
Prayer for the Day
Ever giving God, who loves us not because of our merits,
but as a parent who loves a child, shelter us within your heart;
Holding us and yet encouraging us to reach out to the world around,
The world of which we are caretakers, not owners.
Fill our minds with the light of truth, our hearts with the grace of love,
Our deeds with the power of your Spirit.
In the name of the One who teaches us how to live with grace,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
I don't trust people who don't love themselves and tell me, 'I love you.' ... There is an African saying which is: Be careful when a naked person offers you a shirt.
- Maya Angelou, poet (1928-2014)
None of us knows what might happen even the next minute, yet still we go forward. Because we trust. Because we have faith
- Paulo Coelho, Brazilian lyricist and novelist
God put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the Lord.
Happy are those who make the Lord their trust,
Who do not turn to the proud, to those who go astray after false gods.
Psalm 40: 3-4