Who never has any problems? Nobody, because problems are part of life. Sometimes they seem to rush in on us from several sides, having different effects and differing in their dimensions. You are then faced with a proverbial mountain of problems. Is it also your experience that one can then easily be discouraged and not know what to do next?

When problems seem to rush in on us, we should remember that God has given us an excellent mind. We can therefore assume that God expects us to use this mind when problems arise. His word, the Bible, serves us as our constant guide.

For example, if we have a relationship problem, God shows us a possible solution in Matthew 18, verse 15: "Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother." Implicit in this statement is our effort to seek to clarify the situation via dialogue.

In the case of financial problems, problems at our workplace, etc., we find God's helpful teaching in Proverbs 12, verse 15: "He who heeds counsel is wise." We also have the admonition of the apostle James to ask God for wisdom: "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him" (James 1:5).

Scriptures like these help us realize that we should do what we can do ourselves to find a solution to our problems. God can help us if we ask Him, but He will not do those things for us that we can do ourselves. And if there are problems in our lives, the first step is to find out whether God has something to say about them: "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4).

Our experience in life also teaches us that we make God our partner when we include Him in our worries and problems. There can be no better help! "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God" (Philippians 4:6).

With these thoughts I wish everyone a rewarding Sabbath!