Bridging the gap. It’s an idiom used to connect two things, making the difference between them smaller.
Sometimes in life there is a gap. It may be the difference between something we learn and applying it. Or, it may have something to do with the future or uncertainty.
There are many examples.
For instance, when we walk across the street we bridge the gap with trust by believing the drivers are going to act in a certain way. Hopefully, in a manner so they will not run us over! On the road, we trust that drivers will stay in their lanes. We believe the airline pilot will be sober and alert.
To trust is to believe that someone is going to act in a particular manner.
“To maintain the relational integrity necessary to operate as a team, we must choose to trust and to be trustworthy as a team.†Andy Stanley
Andy describes how we use this concept to connect work teams with trust. Relational integrity… I like that!
The same is true in our interpersonal relationships outside of work. When we choose to trust, we bridge the gap of uncertainty for future actions. We believe the person who is trusted in going to do what is expected. When that doesn’t happen, we lose the relational integrity. The gap widens.
Conversely, when people do behave in a trustworthy manner, the gap closes in. It becomes smaller, and we move forward a step.
“Trust involves the juxtaposition of people’s loftiest hopes and aspirations with their deepest worries and fears.†Jeffry A. Simpson
There are trust and the gap again. This time, the gap is fear and worry.
Why do people have trouble trusting? For some, the benefits of closeness and intimacy are overshadowed by the possibility of pain and betrayal. Past experiences are often in play here.
Remember, bridges are built on piers or pillars. These foundational structures help the bridge handle the structural load. For us, in life, the pillars that hold up the bridge are often the positive, small baby steps we take in moving forward.
With God, we know we can trust Him to keep His promises. How does the Lord help us bridge the gap?
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
God’s got your back. Establish safe boundaries. Taking the next step in life is easier with this assurance. I think that helps people of faith bridge the gap. With trust.
Image courtesy of John Spooner on flickr
