7 P’s for Problem Solving
Problems; those situations or circumstances that are unpleasant, undesirable, inconvenient, uncomfortable and unwelcome. Nobody likes them yet everybody has them. Problems are inevitable, yet we seem surprised and become disappointed when they cross our path. Jesus said in John 16:33, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” I would like to suggest 7 P’s for problem solving.
- Pray. I Thessalonians 5:17 says, “Pray without ceasing.” Pray as a first response and not a last resort. Prayer causes us to focus on God’s presence and power.
- Praise. Revelation 19:5 says, “. . . Give praise to our God, all you His bond-servants, you who fear, the small and the great.” Praise is a form of worship.
- Don’t Panic. Try not to feel overwhelmed and become fearful and anxious. We don’t have to deal with the problem alone.
- Be Patient. A part of patience is to wait without complaint. Isaiah 40:31, “Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.”
- Don’t take it Personal. Problems are usually not a personal attack or a conspiracy to destroy you. And you’re not the only one experiencing difficulty.
- Be Positive. Problems have solutions. Maintain a positive attitude. Keep your options open and believe that you will get through it.
- Be Pleasant. Don’t allow negative emotions to take over and contribute to you being angry, aggravated, frustrated or irritable. Attempt to respond appropriately rather than react.
And remember, God can and does use problems for our benefit. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”
–Tony Cooper
In his 26th Year of Service as Exec. Dir.,
Jimmie Hale Mission
www.jimmiehalemission.com
