Perfect Problems

I read this recently: If we all put our problems in a pile and saw everybody else’s, we’d grab ours back!

How great is that!?

Our 'problems' are no random occurrences. Each has been hand-picked by God. If we believe that He has a plan for each one of our lives, and if we trust Him, then we can begin to reframe the way we think about adverse events or circumstances. No longer problems to contend with, but opportunities for growth.

We can shift the emotion or energy we give to our 'problems.' No longer challenges that cause us anxiety or to feel defeated, but opportunities to practice courage and acceptance. Faith strengtheners.

But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me. - 2 Corinthians 12:9

I used to be a real control-freak (my husband might argue that 'used to be' is not exactly the truth, but let's go with it). Several years ago, the Lord went on a mission to teach me that HE is actually The One in control, not me. He threw 'problems' into my life that I couldn't possibly control, though, believe me, I tried! My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. A family member was deep in a drug addiction. My parents divorced. My sister contracted a scary and rare illness that had her hospitalized for over a month (she was in the hospital over her planned wedding day!) Yeah, that was quite a time.

Quite a blessed time.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you" - Jeremiah 29:11

There was no way I could cope with all those "problems" on my own. He gave me exactly the right amount of adverse circumstances I needed in order to turn to Him and fall on my knees. To surrender. To deepen my trust and strengthen my faith. If it weren't for all those "problems," I would not have the gift of a rich faith as I do today. I would not have the deep sense of peace and contentment that I have each day, knowing God is in charge of my life. And I do not think I would be doing this work that I am blessed with today. I would not be able to come alongside and sit compassionately with others who are coping with their own 'problems.'

Yes, much "bless" has come from the "mess." (I love the expression, "look for the bless in the mess").

Our God knows exactly how each one of us is to grow and develop. Therefore, He knows exactly the right 'problems' that will help us learn the necessary lessons and face the necessary experiences, as He gently nudges us out of our comfort zones. He has carefully crafted the cross we each carry. Each is the perfect size and weight. He gently places our cross on our shoulders at exactly the right moment. And this is the best part - He walks along beside us and helps us carry it! He is right there with outstretched hands throughout our entire journey!

[Tweet "God will never give you more than you can handle, so long as you hold onto His hand."]

As you walk through whatever problems or trials you are facing today, don't forget to look up. Literally, take a minute and look up at the sky, draw in a deep breath, and ask God to show you how He wants for you to trust Him in this circumstance. What He wants you to surrender to Him today. He will never give you more than you can handle, so long as you hold onto His hand.