This article is a companion piece to our sermon series “God Is The Answer.” Watch the full sermon below for a deeper understanding of how God works through our challenges.
Why Does a Loving God Allow Problems?
Have you ever found yourself asking, “Why me, Lord?” You’re not alone. As your pastor, I’ve heard this heart-wrenching question countless times, and I’ve asked it myself. But what if I told you that your problems might be the very channel through which God demonstrates His power in your life?
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Understanding the Nature of Problems
Problems in our lives generally fall into three categories:
- Inherited Problems – Situations we’re born into or encounter through no fault of our own
- Acquired Problems – Challenges we create through our own choices
- Avoidable Problems – Situations we could have prevented with wisdom
The Hidden Purpose in Your Problems
Here’s a profound truth that might transform your perspective: Problems don’t qualify you as a person – they highlight your character. When facing difficulties, you can be:
- An observer of the problem
- Part of the problem
- The problem itself
God’s Perspective on Your Challenges
While we’re focused on the immediate pain of our situation, God sees something entirely different. He sees:
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the LORD. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.” – Isaiah 55:8-9
Two Divine Purposes in Problems
1. God Wants to Reveal Himself
Every challenge is an opportunity to witness God’s character in action. When you’re facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles, God isn’t distant – He’s preparing to demonstrate His power in your life.
2. God Is Preparing You for Something Greater
Consider the story of Joseph. Betrayed, enslaved, and imprisoned, he couldn’t see God’s greater purpose. Yet every trial was preparing him for his future position.
“But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.” – Genesis 50:20
Practical Steps for Facing Problems
- Learn to Say No to Sin – Examine your life and address any areas that may be separating you from God’s presence
- Allow God to Build Your Character – Embrace the refining process
- Prepare to Help Others – Your testimony will become someone else’s hope
The Challenge: Your Next Step of Faith
I challenge you this week to do something different when facing problems. Instead of asking “Why me?”, ask “What are You teaching me, Lord?” Keep a journal of how God reveals Himself through your challenges.
“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
A Prayer for Your Journey
Heavenly Father, help us to see our problems through Your eyes. Give us the strength to trust Your process, the wisdom to learn from our challenges, and the patience to wait for Your perfect timing. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Remember, beloved, God doesn’t just have the answer – He IS the answer. Your current situation isn’t your final destination. Keep walking in faith, knowing that God has already prepared your victory.
Join us next Sunday as we continue our series “God Is The Answer” and discover more about God’s faithfulness in our lives.