Problem SolvingSample

Seeking God’s Help in Solving Problems

They recognized that this work had been accomplished with the help of our God. - Neh 6:16

Sometimes our problems are such that there is no solution in sight. If we are not the ones who created the problem, we can find ourselves at a dead end in trying to solve it. There may be factors that are beyond our control or people whose decisions and actions determine the outcome. At such times, it is important to remember that the path we choose to find the solution is as important as the solution itself. Andy Stanley, Pastor of Northpoint Community Church, Atlanta, said ‘stop looking for solutions to problems and start looking for the right path’.

Problems can be opportunities to learn to depend on God. Nehemiah led the people of Judah to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem in 446 BC. Opposition goes with the territory of being a leader. Nehemiah was no exception and had his fair share of opposition from many quarters. He faced problems which were not within his control. Some of these problems were created by people with malicious intent. But he refused to buckle under pressure, continued to do his work and remained focused on his goals.

Even though Nehemiah was a man of action, his prayer life was not neglected. He blended practicality and spirituality in order to solve the problems that he faced. What a great example of a leader he is to us. He knew that action is necessary for results, but action backed by prayer guarantees success.

When his enemies plotted against him, Nehemiah realized that this was not a problem that he could solve in his own strength. Instead, he sought God’s help in dealing with it.

Nehemiah prayed practical prayers that showed reliance on God while he kept on with his task. Likewise, if we rely on God when faced with problems, we’ll have the ability to press on with our work and to reach our goals.

Lord, I choose to bring to You the problems that I am facing today. Help me, O God to be diligent in my work and fervent in my prayer. Amen