Worthy of Her Trust by Stephen Arterburn & Jason B. Martinkus Summary

Worthy of Her Trust provides a roadmap for men to rebuild trust after betraying their partners through sexual infidelity or addiction. Coauthored by Stephen Arterburn and Jason Martinkus, it combines personal stories, clinical insights, and faith-based strategies to address accountability, empathy, and long-term relational healing.

This book targets men seeking to repair relationships damaged by sexual betrayal, spouses navigating reconciliation, and Christian counselors guiding couples. It’s also valuable for partners wanting to understand the trust-rebuilding process.

Yes, with over 7 million books in print and positive reviews, it’s praised for its actionable tools, structured approach (e.g., "active honesty"), and dual perspectives from both authors and a betrayed spouse. Critics note its rigorous accountability measures may challenge some readers.

Key ideas include:

• Active Honesty: Radical transparency in all communications.
• Nonnegotiable Boundaries: Implementing safeguards like digital monitoring.
• Empathy Development: Understanding the betrayed partner’s trauma.
• Spiritual Grounding: Using prayer and scripture to foster humility.

The book outlines steps like ending secrecy, pursuing professional counseling, and establishing accountability networks. It emphasizes consistent, long-term behavioral change over quick fixes.

Arterburn, a renowned Christian counselor and radio host, contributes clinical expertise through commentary sections titled “Insight from Stephen Arterburn.” His coauthor, Jason Martinkus, shares personal recovery experiences.

Yes, Martinkus’s wife, Shelley, offers reflections in “Shelley’s Thoughts” sections, providing firsthand insights into the emotional impact of betrayal and prerequisites for reconciliation.

Tools include:

• Accountability Partnerships: Regular check-ins with mentors.
• Digital Transparency: Shared device access and monitoring apps.
• Communication Exercises: Structured dialogues to rebuild emotional safety.

The authors stress prayer, scriptural study, and surrendering control to God as foundational to healing. They frame recovery as a spiritual journey requiring humility and grace.

Some readers find its accountability measures (e.g., strict transparency) overly demanding, though supporters argue they’re necessary for trust restoration. The Christian-centric approach may also limit appeal to secular audiences.

Unlike secular guides, it integrates faith-based principles and collaborative spousal input. Its focus on sexual integrity sets it apart from general marriage advice books like The 5 Love Languages.

• “Trust is rebuilt in the smallest moments, not the grand gestures.”
  Emphasizes consistent, daily actions over sporadic efforts.
• “Your past doesn’t have to dictate your future.”
  Encourages hope and perseverance in the healing process.