Look At Your Problem a Different Way

"In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart. I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)

According to John 16:33, Jesus warns that we will have problems as long as we are in this world. Jesus' brother, James, advised us to count it all joy when we encounter any problems (James 1:2).

No one enjoys encountering problems. So, what were Jesus and James thinking when they said those things about problems? How can people count it all joy when problems come at them from all sides? How can people see problems as stepping stones when we are used to seeing them as stumbling blocks?

Because Jesus warned us and James confirmed it, we should believe it and act accordingly.

Problem: Definition

First, let's look at the definition of a problem. The dictionary tells us that a problem is a matter or situation regarded as unwelcome or harmful, and something that needs to be dealt with and overcome.

A problem is generally considered to be a task, a situation, or even a person that is difficult to deal with or control. In other words, a problem is anything that needs a solution.

Purpose for Every Problem

Problems don't come upon us for no reason. For every problem, there is a purpose. God uses our problems to change us into what He created us to be.

A very good example of that is found in Genesis, Chapters 37-50. The Bible devotes a lot of space telling the story of Joseph, who would not have ended up being second in command in Egypt had he not first encountered problems.

Joseph was not mature enough for that great responsibility unless he had experienced problems. God's purpose for Joseph's life included problems to develop his character. Then Joseph was ready, willing, and able to do exploits for God and God's people when the time was right,

Problems Prevent Greater Problems

It might be hard to believe that you might have a minor problem to prevent greater problems. An auto mechanic might tell you that if you do not take care of a minor problem with your automobile, it will develop into a major problem.

In other words, a minor problem can be a warning to fix something sooner rather than later.

Problems Test Faith

Problems usually test a person's faith. We find out how much faith we have when we have a problem. We will either become better or bitter because of the problems we face. If we never have a problem, we might think we have great faith. On the other hand, we find out for sure how great our faith really is when we have a problem.

We should not panic when we have a problem because there is always a solution. However, we will not see it until we are relaxed enough to identify the solution.

See your problem as a way to test your faith. It is another step toward spiritual development.

Problems Keep Hope Alive

Hope is kept alive when we have problems. If everything is going great, there is no need to hope for anything because we already have it. It is only when we have a problem that we hope for something different.

When we have a problem, then we are in the right position to hope for a miracle.

Got a Problem?

As Jesus warned, you will have problems no matter how devout you are. Job was a devout man, but the Bible records that he had problems in every area of his life. He endured and did not give up.

Remember that God doesn't allow problems to come upon you to harm you. Instead, problems come for the following reasons:

• to make you better
• to build your character
• to test your faith
• to keep your hope alive

Do you see now why James encouraged us to count it all joy when we have a problem?

See every problem as a stepping stone to a higher level instead of a stumbling block that will hold you back.

Remember. . .

• There is a purpose for every problem.
• Your current problem can prevent a greater problem.
• Every problem is a stepping stone to something greater.

About the Author

Rev. Margaret Minnicks is an ordained Bible teacher. She writes Bible lessons and motivational articles.