Problems Are Inevitable

Chuckle: After an examination, his doctor took the man into his room and said, "I have good news and bad news." The man said, "Give me the good news first." "They're going to name a disease after you," the doctor replied.

Quote: “You want to 'see' people without problems? Go to the cemetery.”

PROBLEMS ARE INEVITABLE

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever (not if, but when) you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature" (James 1:2-4 NIV).

Notice that it's not "if," but "when" we face trials and troubles. James assumes we will have troubles and that it is possible for us to profit from them. However, usually, when something goes wrong in our lives, we tend to ask questions like, "How could this happen to me?" Or, "Why has this happened to me?" Or, "What did I do to deserve this?" Or, "How could a loving God let this happen to me?" I'm sure you have asked these or similar questions when unexpected difficulties came into your life. I suspect we all have. . . .

Problems are a normal part of life. We must accept the fact that Christians are not immune from problems. God would have us understand that and they come in many forms. They can be related to physical illness; a financial crisis; a rebellious child; a disappointment by a trusted friend; or a hurtful remark which degrades you, your values, or your faith. There's no limit to the variety of difficult situations which can arise.

As Christians, we should not be surprised when problems arise! God warns us of trials, difficulties, problems, and challenges as we go through life in this imperfect world. "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering as though something strange were happening to you" (I Peter 4:12 NIV).

Problems also come suddenly and unexpectedly. A doctor informs you that you have cancer, or your boss surprises you with a pink slip. You're never ready for such encounters. God wants to prepare us for unexpected and varied problems, even the small ones. He does not want us to be surprised, but He does want us to look to him for wisdom and strength in the handling of such setbacks in life. God loves you and fully understands how much your faith can endure.

Someone has said, "The trials of our faith are like God's ironing. When the heat of trials/troubles are applied to our lives the wrinkles of spiritual immaturity begin to be smoothed out." When problems arise in your life, don't be discouraged. Instead, turn to the One who specializes in problem-solving -- your loving Heavenly Father.

 

Love, Jerry & Dotse