How to Strengthen Faith and Trust? 10 Tips to Empower Us

Rabbi Yaakov Israel Lugasi in his book "Nafshi B'She'elati" presents us with 10 tips, step-by-step, that will help us strengthen our faith and the attribute of trust:

1. Understanding the Necessity of Faith in Daily Life

First of all, we need to understand that faith is essential for every person, as the only way in our generation, the generation preceding the coming of the Messiah, to leave this world with something, is through faith that can elevate one to the level of a righteous person.

2. Desire

After understanding that faith is a necessary part of our lives, Rabbi Lugasi explains that one must strive to achieve this trait with all their might: "One must desire with all their heart to acquire it, strengthen the aspiration and longing to adhere to this trait, by repeatedly acknowledging its necessity and superiority, its immense reward and ultimate purpose, and being enthusiastic to obtain it..."

3. Making a Decision

Now a decision must be made – to decide that investing in faith is worthwhile.

And so the Rabbi emphasizes: "Faith is precious enough to invest in it every day for just a quarter of an hour, to reflect on how everything is in the hands of the Blessed One and His oversight, and everything is for the best..."

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4. Studying Books on Faith

Reading books that strengthen the traits of faith and trust, like "Chovot HaLevavot", "Or Yechizkel" (in the 'Faith' section), "The Guide for the Perplexed" by Rabbi Abraham, son of the Rambam, "Shomer Emunim" (Part A, articles on supervision and trust), and others.

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5. Practice in Daily Activities

In every daily action, whether shopping or errands, get accustomed to speaking about personal oversight, and asking for help from Hashem in these matters: "One must always remind themselves that they need Hashem's help in everything."

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6. Practical Implementation

This step is the essence of the work of faith – implementing faith: "And it is to see in every matter that it is under supervision, both in disappointing matters and joyful ones."

For every event during the day, get used to saying that everything is under supervision and for the best. Even if someone angers you by saying something inappropriate, they made you tea without sugar, or you lost an item, etc.

And also get used to thinking that all the money you earn, or all the good that comes to you – did not come because of your wisdom, but believe it is under supervision and for your good, and as you train yourself to say and think these things – you will be better prepared for any event that might disrupt you, because you will initially remember that this person was sent for your benefit, and this traffic jam is under higher supervision, and so on.

"And know, truly and tangibly, every day Hashem prepares for every person a number of trials and tests to see if there is intelligent pursuit of Hashem, and His eyes see, and His eyelids test the sons of man to see their reactions. And know and believe that in the end all his tests will go through selection and review, and according to the results of the tests, so will be his level".

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7. Simple Prayer

Pray to Hashem before every action you take, in the simple language and words you are accustomed to using with your friends, regarding your actions that are considered due diligence, and the rest is up to Him.

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8. Preparedness

It is important for every person to prepare in advance for situations where they might stumble into anger, exactness, pride, taking into account that there will be a struggle with the inclination, and to prepare for it.

For example, if a person knows in advance that a situation of tension and strictness might arise at home, for any reason – prepare in advance not to become angry in any way.

9. Recovery After a Fall

Have you stumbled? You are still victorious:

"Even when the trial was beyond your capacity... know that victory is still in your hands! And it is in trying to recover as quickly as possible. The sooner you recover from the sorrow and disappointment and come to calmness and equanimity – the higher your level will rise in faith."

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10. Justifying the Judgment

In every disappointing event, "one should imagine immediately that Hashem is standing over him and speaking with him, saying: My son, it is I! I am the one who arranged this event for you, and it is all for your good!"

And thus in every case, justify Heaven upon yourself and rejoice that it is for your atonement, and be happy every time you manage to overcome.

Advice on Faith – Judging Favorably

To conclude, Rabbi Lugasi gives an important piece of advice in interpersonal conduct:

"In righteousness, you shall judge your fellow – this commandment's intention is to judge everyone favorably, and to always find a favorable side even when matters lean towards obligation... and when you train yourself to always see that your fellow did not intend harm, and justify them with a positive perspective, so will your conduct be towards Hashem to justify His judgment and believe that surely the Divine conduct with you is for the best".

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