How to Deal with Problems

How do you deal with problems that come your way?  Many of us respond in the flesh and allow our problems to upset us, frustrate us and make us angry.  We often will grumble and complain and wonder why is this happening to me?  That is the natural part of us taking control, but as a Believer, we must have a totally different response and look at our problems from a Biblical point of view.  If you believe that ALL things will work together for your good, then you must first stop and consider Paul’s words in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”  Paul isn’t saying that we should be thankful for the problem; but he is saying that a problem is an opportunity for you to grow in Christ.

As you know there are many different types of problems; some are simple and can be resolved quickly but others are more complex and might be beyond your ability to solve on your own. You must not run from these problems or refuse to deal with them.  These problems must be given to God and you must be willing to accept God’s way of handling these problems.  Often, we pray about our problems in such a way that we are actually telling God how we want Him to respond.  You must remember that God’s ways are not our ways and His thoughts are not our thoughts; so when we take our problems to God we must have faith and trust that it will all work together for our good.

You might find it difficult to patiently wait on the Lord.  You might be tempted to become frustrated and even angry if things are not working out the way you expected but it is your responsibility to let the spirit of God within you over-rule your flesh.  You have the power to be still and let God be God but it is a choice you must make.  God holds us accountable for our attitudes just as much as He holds us accountable for our actions.  A self-righteous attitude, a angry attitude or an unforgiving attitude will block God from providing your way of escape.  It is important that you evaluate your attitude and emotions when you are dealing with a problem beyond your control.  Remember, God knows and sees your heart.

Problems can make you fearful if you are focusing on the situation and not on God.  But God has not given you a spirit of fear and if you find yourself becoming fearful, speak to your mountain and let faith take charge.  Fear will stop you from responding the way God expects you to.  Fear does not bring honor to God, in fact, it dishonors Him because if you believe that God will never leave you; if you believe that nothing is too difficult for God, fear says ‘I don’t believe God is who He says He is!”  On the other hand, not having fear means you are standing on Psalms 118:6 that says “The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” A man is known by what he does or says when he is under pressure, and your attitude and emotional state will indicate whether you are trusting God or if you are not.

Be mindful of how you respond to the problems that you encounter on your journey.  Don’t consider yourself a victim.  If you belong to Christ, you are more than a conqueror.  Christ died so that you can live in victory.  Grab a hold of that truth and let the peace of God reign in your heart today.