Everyone has them. Children, men, and women have them. Single, married, divorced, and grieving people have them. Good people, indifferent people, and evil people have them. Teens, adults of all ages, even elderly people have them. Parents with children at home and parents with grown children have them. Healthy people, sick people, poor people, middle class people, and rich people have them.
What do they all have in common? Problems!
The only requirement for having problems is life. If you are alive, you have problems. The issue is always the same: "How will I deal with my problems?"
The human reaction to problems is strange. "Mine" are "real" and "unavoidable." "Yours" are "unnecessary." If "I" were "you," "I" would never have them. However, if "you" were "me," "you" could not cope with "my problems".
When you try to help people with their problems you usually run into three things:
-First, they will deny that they have any problems. They might even be offended that you imply that they do. Your inquiry most likely will be considered an intrusion.
-Secondly, they might express appreciation for your concern while minimizing their problems. They might even indicate that something breaking their heart is no more than something minor that they can handle of deal with.
-Lastly, they may throw themselves a pity party at your expense. They might exaggerate their problems just to make you feel sorry for them.
Christians do a less than desirable job of declaring Jesus' messages about dealing with our problems and struggles. The ability to cope is not found in denying or exaggerating the fact that we all must confront problems. People can help, but people are neither the ideal or complete answer.
Jesus offered hope in Matthew 11:28-30. He said, "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
He also said in John 16:33 that "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world."
Jesus does not make our problems evaporate, but He does give us strength to cope with them. Give Him a chance and see what He can do to help you with yours.
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