When Troubles Come

We identify our true self by the way we respond to our problems… and we all have them. Think about it.

Before developing the problem consider this ultimate action. Don’t ask, “Why God, why did this happen to wonderful me?”

Instead ask, “How, God, can this make me more like you.” Look for an answer to that. With your hand still on the doorknob of the unknown you can enter it with boldness because of the infinite resources of your faithful God.

Now evaluate which of the following responses most closely typify you?  Are you a:

Ho-hummer, a person who is indifferent to the nature or potential consequence of the issue? Just shrug it off or deal with it later. No big deal!

Hand-wringer, a person who automatically shifts into anxiety mode. There is no situation so small you can’t worry about it. Fret first and frequently.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”                      

Hum-dinger, a person who approaches the situation resolutely on giving it your best effort, and dealing with it constructively, one who prayerfully and analytically deals with the situation.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3: 5)            

Whatever challenges hum-dingers face, they focus on the future rather than on the past. Their mind, thoughts and mental images are in the future. 

They focus on the solution rather than on the problem. Solutions are positive, whereas problems are negative.

Hum-dingers believe every situation that comes can enable them to become a better person. “By their fruit you shall know them…” (Matthew 7: 16)

They believe that something good is hidden within each difficulty or challenge. Norman Vincent Peale, a major proponent of positive thinking, once said, “Whenever God wants to give us a gift, he wraps it up in a problem.” 

Therefore, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” (James 1: 2 – 4)

You can change. If identified by either of the first two above classifications, you can become identified as being a newcomer to the third. How do your friends know you? How would you like for them to know you?