Problems

Problems: a matter or situation unwelcome that needs to be overcome.

Everyone has problems. Some work hard at hiding them from others. Others are very vocal about the problems they face. It does not matter your skin color, economic status, position at work, or if you are a believer or non believer, Problems are part of the curse of this sin infested planet. 

There are some problems we may face that are totally out of our control. Ask victims of hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires and mass shootings. Such problems are not welcome and come suddenly. Lives are often left in shambles afterwards. 

Then, there are relational problems. Pain and sorrow caused by someone else. It could be a family member, friend or co-worker. These problems are also unwelcome. They are deeply distressing. Many times there is nothing you can do to fix the situation. Truth gets distorted and the fire of strife grows. 

There is also, the problems we bring on ourselves. When we choose to rebel against God, and do things our way we invite problems. There are consequences for sin. We can be forgiven, but the consequences can linger. 

The prodigal son did this. He plotted a problematic course when he left his father and squandered his money in loose living. The problems we bring on ourselves are some of the worst. We know in hindsight they could have been avoided, if we had just obeyed God. Even in our fits of rebellion God has a way of using those problems to lead us back to Him in repentance. That is exactly what happened to the prodigal son. His problems brought him to his senses and back to his father. 

God also can use problems to test and strengthen our faith. While they may not be welcome, God can use them for good. 

God is the ultimate problem solver. When Brenda worked as a Senior Merchandise Manager for the JC Peenney company, one of her responsibilities was settting the floor with all the merchandise. She told me many times she would get to a stand still and not know what to do. She would come home, pray about it and ask God to show her what to do. She would dream about how to set the floor and follow what she saw in her dream. She had a problem and God solved it. 

Nobody can solve a problem as efficiently, wisely, powerfully and as compassionately as God. Whatever problem you have let Him be your problem solver.