Solution – Finding a God-Honouring Answer to Every Problem

To every problem there is a God-honouring solution. This article explores how to move from the weight of a problem to a wholesome outcome, by seeking God's guidance, assessing the situation wisely and acting on the answer in faith.

Seeking God's Guidance First

We should pray and seek guidance from Scripture besides asking such questions as: what would Jesus do in this situation? Will He be glorified by my intended action? Is this the most loving response? Keep in mind the 'golden rule' of doing to others as we would they do unto us, and also the possible need for appropriate personal correction and discipline (Lk 6:31; Heb 12:9-11). The more important a decision, the more time and input needs to go into a particular course of action, and remember God will never instruct you to disobey any command or principle of the Bible.

Assessing the Problem and Seeking Wise Advice

Before responding get first-hand information and facts, carefully assess and prayerfully commit the situation to God – He's bigger than any problem – and aim for a long-term solution rather than just a temporary fix. In faith, keep your eyes on the Master as Satan would rather we focus on the negative and worry about the situation.

Take it to the Lord in prayer

Make plans by seeking advice from mature people who can provide insight from real life experiences. Maybe they will suggest a different or alternative solution yet the final decision and any consequences rests with you, on whatever course of action you take (Prov 20:18). Don't be so focused on the answer coming by a predetermined method that you fail to look at other possibilities, because providence and guidance might come in a refreshingly different and creative way. The invalid beside the Bethesda Pool only considered the means to get into the pool. The possibility of Jesus healing him was outside his thought range (Jn 5:2-9).

Have a realistic strategy, and separate the symptoms from the root cause. Divide the problem into parts – don't try and deal with the whole but in manageable sections. Consider who can give me advice? What resources can I utilize? Get assistance if necessary – none of us are fully capable in every area of life. It is also helpful to write down possible solutions.

Every problem is an opportunity for a solution

Refrain from making quick responses. Hasty reactions, made under pressure or in the heat of emotion, rarely produce the best outcome – the Word counselled us long before modern psychology: a person who answers before listening brings folly and shame (Prov 18:13). Many times, after contemplating possible solutions, it is wise to deliberately give your attention to other matters. While you rest, walk or sleep, the brain quietly continues to work on the issue in the background, sorting and connecting what you have considered, and then a solution will burst forth – often when you least expect it. This God-given process of reflection mirrors the counsel to be still and know that He is God (Ps 46:10), for stillness before the Lord clears the mental clutter that crowds out wisdom.

Acting on the Solution in Faith

Decide on the best approach and start solving the problem by doing what you believe to be the Lord's will, mindful this may need to be modified over time. We humans are impatient, wanting instant answers and resolution to the multitude of perplexing situations that confront us in our lives, but often there is a real need for patience, persistence and walking by faith in the midst of trying times, which will prove our faith genuine (1 Pet 1:6-7).

God is all-wise and all-knowing – who better to consult?

Living selflessly, by the opposite spirit to that displayed by the world, tapping into the resources of the Holy Spirit and humbly being obedient to the Lord's leading are vital elements to reaching a wholesome solution.

However the problem is resolved, the very process of working through it is itself a gift. With every issue faced and worked through with experience, commonsense and persistence, our character is developed and matured. Experience teaches us what actually works, commonsense keeps our plans grounded in reality, and persistence refuses to quit when the answer does not come quickly.

Scripture affirms this God-intended outcome of trials: "we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope" (Rom 5:3-4). Likewise, "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" (Jas 1:2-4). The problem that presses you today is quietly shaping the person you will be tomorrow – so do not resent it; grow through it.

Our character is developed through the events of life

As the solution unfolds, do not forget to acknowledge those who have given input along the way. The counsellor who listened, the friend who prayed, the mature believer who shared hard-won insight from real life – all were part of God's provision, and a simple word of thanks honours their contribution and keeps you humble. Above all, acknowledge Christ. It was His wisdom you sought, His Spirit who guided, and His strength that carried you through. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths" (Prov 3:5-6). Every wholesome outcome ultimately comes from His hand, so the final word belongs to Him: "Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but to Your name give glory" (Ps 115:1).

Reflection and Application:

Pray and search the Scriptures before acting, asking what Jesus would do and whether God will be glorified.
Gather first-hand facts, and seek advice from mature people who can offer insight from real life experience.
Separate symptoms from the root cause, tackle the problem in manageable parts, and wait patiently on the Lord's timing, walking by faith instead of settling for a temporary fix.
Recognise how experience, commonsense and persistence are developing your character through each problem faced, and thank all who gave input along the way – above all acknowledging Christ for His wisdom, guidance and strength.