How do we handle problems

How Do You Handle Problems?
Today, we're going to explore how we handle the problems that life throws our way. Problems are inevitable, but our response to them can determine whether we are buried by them or rise above them. We'll look at a powerful story, reflect on some key biblical examples, and learn how we can use our challenges as opportunities for growth.
The Donkey in the Well
Let me start with a story that illustrates this point. A farmer had a donkey that one day fell into an old, dry well. The well was deep, and the donkey was trapped with seemingly no way out. The animal cried out, and the farmer, realizing the hopelessness of the situation, decided it would be best to cover the well and let the donkey go. He called his neighbors to help, and they all began shoveling dirt into the well.
At first, the donkey panicked. But as the dirt fell on its back, the donkey shook it off and stepped up on it. With each shovel of dirt, the donkey continued to shake it off and step higher. Eventually, the donkey had risen high enough to step out of the well and walk away, free from what had once seemed like an inescapable situation.
This story is a vivid metaphor for how we can respond to the problems in our lives. Instead of letting them bury us, we can use them to rise above our circumstances. The Bible provides many examples of this principle in action.
Biblical Examples of Overcoming Problems
Moses: From Fugitive to Deliverer
Scripture Reference: Exodus 2:11-15, Exodus 3:1-10
Moses was born into a time of great oppression for the Israelites in Egypt. After killing an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew, Moses fled to the desert to escape Pharaoh’s wrath. He spent years in hiding, a fugitive running from his past. But God had other plans. In the desert, God called Moses to return to Egypt—not as a fugitive, but as the deliverer of His people. What seemed like a problem—Moses’ impulsive act—was used by God to position him for a greater purpose.
Reflection: How often do we run from our problems, only to find that God is calling us to face them head-on? Moses' story teaches us that God can use our past mistakes and current struggles to prepare us for His greater purpose.
Joseph: From the Pit to the Palace
Scripture Reference: Genesis 37:18-28, Genesis 50:20
Joseph’s life was marked by a series of devastating events. His brothers, jealous of his favored status, threw him into a well and later sold him into slavery. He was falsely accused and imprisoned, seemingly forgotten. But God was with Joseph through every trial. Eventually, Joseph rose to become the second most powerful man in Egypt, saving countless lives during a famine, including those of his brothers who had betrayed him.
Reflection: Joseph’s story reminds us that even when life seems unfair and problems overwhelm us, God is at work behind the scenes. The very things that were meant to harm Joseph became the stepping stones to his destiny. "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good" (Genesis 50:20).
David: From Sin to Repentance and Restoration
Scripture Reference: 2 Samuel 11:1-27, Psalm 51:1-12
David was a man after God’s own heart, but even he was not immune to failure. His adultery with Bathsheba and the subsequent murder of her husband, Uriah, were grave sins. However, when confronted by the prophet Nathan, David didn’t deny his wrongdoing. Instead, he repented deeply, seeking God’s forgiveness. Though his sin had serious consequences, David’s sincere repentance led to his restoration and continued legacy as a great king.
Reflection: David's story shows us that our response to our failures matters. We can either be crushed by guilt and shame, or we can turn to God, repent, and be restored. God’s grace is sufficient, even in our darkest moments.
Esther: Courage in the Face of Danger
Scripture Reference: Esther 4:13-16
Esther was a young Jewish woman who found herself in a position of influence as the queen of Persia. When a decree went out to annihilate the Jewish people, Esther faced a daunting decision. She could remain silent and protect herself, or she could risk her life by approaching the king to plead for her people. Esther chose the latter, displaying remarkable courage and faith. Her actions not only saved her people but also demonstrated that God can use anyone, regardless of their circumstances, to bring about His purposes.
Reflection: Esther’s story challenges us to confront our fears and step out in faith, trusting that God has placed us where we are for a reason. "And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14).
Application: How Are You Handling Your Problems?
Each of these biblical characters faced significant problems, yet they chose to respond in ways that allowed them to grow and fulfill their God-given purposes. The challenges we face can either defeat us or become the very tools that shape us into the people God wants us to be.
As the story of the donkey in the well illustrates, problems can either bury us or elevate us. The choice is ours. Do we complain and remain stuck, or do we shake off the dirt and step up, using our problems as opportunities for growth?
Jack Welch, the former CEO of General Electric, once said, "Before you become a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others." This quote perfectly encapsulates the Christian journey. Our problems are not just about us; they are opportunities for God to grow us so that we, in turn, can help others grow.
Conclusion
So, how do you handle your problems? Are you allowing them to bury you, or are you using them as stepping stones to rise higher? Like the donkey, Moses, Joseph, David, and Esther, you have the power, through God’s strength, to shake off the dirt and step up. Your problems can either be your downfall or your elevation—it all depends on how you choose to respond.
Let’s close in prayer, asking God to help us see our problems not as burdens, but as opportunities to grow and to glorify Him.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the lessons we learn through the stories of those who have gone before us. Help us to see our problems not as obstacles, but as opportunities to grow in faith, character, and perseverance. Give us the strength to shake off the dirt and step up, trusting that You are with us in every trial. May we, like Moses, Joseph, David, and Esther, rise above our challenges and use them for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.