Seven points from Chovos Halevavos emphasizing the importance of trust, gratitude, and surrender to Hashem in all aspects of life

Our tradition teaches us to cultivate two sets of belief: trust and faith. When faced with potential tragedy we are required to pray to G‑d and trust Him to protect us from harm.

Matzah, the cracker-like bread, round or square, made by hand or machine, that we eat on  Passover. True enough, say the Jewish mystics, but there's much more than that: matzah is the "bread of faith." 

How so?

G-d determines how much money I am supposed to earn, and no one can change that. So, if I am to earn a certain amount, any business advice I give a competitor cannot take my lot away from me.

The divine blessing that would enrich the soil as a result of the observance of Shemittah would compensate threefold for the perceived loss of revenue while the land was allowed to lie fallow.

King David writes in the Book of Psalms: "Throw your burden unto G‑d." While we must do all we can in practical terms, King Solomon reminds us in Proverbs that "the hearts of kings and ministers are in the hand of G‑d."

Upon the passing of Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov in 1760, the center of Chassidic teaching shifted to the town of Mezheritch, home of the Baal Shem Tov’s successor, the famed “Maggid,” Rabbi DovBer.

Trust is something that needs to be fed and reinforced throughout our early stages in life

Ever sensitive to the nature of suffering people and to their miserable plight, Moses understood the great challenge that pain poses to faith and hope.

Trust is based not on perfection but on accountability.

One who trusts in G-d is someone we can trust. One who rises above self-interest and places their trust in a Higher Power is someone we can trust.

Does our wiring define our attitudes and personalities or do our attitudes define our wiring?