You can learn about the character of people who are experiencing serious problems or difficulties. What do they do to cope with their situation – or flee from it?

Some adults turn to alcohol over medication abuse so they don't have to think about their problems. Some who have relationship difficulties in their family either bolt the scene entirely or look for an alternative via an extra-marital affair. Those challenged by persistent discouragement turn to some obscure cult that promises special insights and a positive perspective for the future. Or they seek counsel in self-help books promoting enhanced self-assurance.

Teenagers sometimes escape via drugs or by becoming a gang member or an elite clique member.

Of course, there can be things we should do ourselves when we have problems. Let's not forget that God works with us on the basis of the "partnership principle". He will not do those things for us that we are capable of doing ourselves.

But what "way out" do we choose when our own efforts are not enough? For example, if we have serious problems with an interpersonal relationship – in the family or at work – do we look to the Bible for its wisdom? Or do we succumb to some "human" method of resolving the problem?

Our choice of a "way out" can become an idol if it takes the place of our Creator. Instead of choosing some path not sanctioned by the Bible, we should look to our heavenly Father and remember that He has called us to be "forward oriented", knowing for sure that He will not allow us to be tested above our ability to bear (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Are we going through a tough time right now? Then let's be comforted by an eternal biblical truth as we look to God for a "way out": "May the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you" (1 Peter 5:10).

With these thoughts I wish everyone a rewarding Sabbath!