What To Do When Faced With Tough Issues
Sometimes when confronted with life issues, there is a likelihood to be overwhelmed especially if a way out isn’t forthcoming. Decisions such as where to school, who to marry, where to work, what to do next in life, etc, which seem easy on the surface become complicated when faced with them. Many voices begin talking in our heads, telling us what course of action to take but ultimately leading to confusion and despair. The tendency to panic, or what the bible refers to ‘fret,’ is usually the case. As a result, the solution to the matter in question becomes far-fetched.
Though this example is not a gratifying one, the principle is applicable. I watched a program on television about a thief who was caught on camera and later apprehended. Apparently, the young man went to rob a store and successfully broke into the safe. On his way out with his loot, he tried opening the door he had skillfully unlocked but surprisingly the door refused to open. He tried and tried pushing the door to open, but it did not. After several unsuccessful attempts, with time counting against him, he panicked. He kicked against the door and used anything he found in the store to break the door open. The door was a strong one, and did not yield to the young man’s constant pounding. He was stuck in the store and later arrested when police officials were notified by neighbors of suspicious noise nearby. Do you know what really happened? When the police came into the store, they simply pushed the door open from outside. The young man had panicked after the theft—instead of pulling the door towards him, he was pushing the door. The door was unlocked all through his scuffle to exit the building. His panic caused him confusion, which led to his downfall.
When a seemingly difficult situation arises and you do not have a solution, here is an approach. It’s just two words—BE STILL. When the tendency to panic or try to address the issue immediately arises, be quiet. We are naturally wired to fight for our survival. While this is good, there are some battles that we cannot fight on our own. Do not try to fight your ‘battles’ by yourself. You need the help of someone bigger than your issue. Hear what Moses told the children of Israel when they were faced with the Egyptians, who wanted to kill them—Just stand still and watch the LORD rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. Exodus 14:13.
When we get quiet in difficult situations, we allow God to speak to us and guide us into solving the problem. On the other hand, when we panic and fight our way through, we shut God out and prevent him from helping us. From today, try being quiet and listen internally. God desires to help you through your challenge. Meditate on his word and allow him direct you. Psalm 23:3-4 says, He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10.
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