Christian Principles For Solving Problems
Christian Principles For Solving Problems
B. SPIRITUAL PREPARATION.
Spiritual preparation is for solving problems; in times of tension, it should be increased.
prayer. How does prayer help us? Matthew 26:41. Overcome temptation. James 5:13 Relieve the
aflicción. Efesios 6:128. Cultiva la perseverancia. Juan 16:24. Recibir gozo.
A Biblical Case: I Samuel 2:1. Hannah brought her problems to God and committed to do what He
I was hoping she would do it. She had peace even before resolving the conflict. I Sam 1:18.
And the biblical reading. Joshua 1:8.
A wise believer will have an open mind to the direction of the Holy Spirit.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, 21-22. What useful instructions does Paul give us.
Think of a problem you have now, mark the answer in the appropriate column.
YES NO
I wish to know God's will regarding this problem.
I have studied the Bible to know if God gives specific instructions about
this problem or similar situations.
I have asked the Holy Spirit to guide me in knowing God's will.
If I need help to understand God's will for applying to this situation,
consult with my pastor or a mature and wise brother.
I have decided to obey God and follow His will even if it is difficult for me.
The spiritual preparation in advance will help you to know God's will; it will give you strength and courage.
to act considering the best solution; and will prevent you from making decisions that could
bring disasters.
AVOID INCORRECT REACTIONS.
Spiritual preparation will help you reject and avoid certain common but incorrect reactions.
when facing problematic situations. Let's consider some negative reactions:
1. ANGER. Anger can take many forms: It can be directed at other people or at God.
In a complicated situation, there are two ways to see things, either I am to blame for what happens to me.
it happens or others have it.
Accusation. In everyday language, it means to blame others for something. To point out a person as
responsible for a fault. It is very different in the legal field: There are true and false accusations.
The evidence shows whether he is guilty or not.
Vengeance. The person who feels wronged decides to take revenge and seeks a form of restitution.
for the damage. Revenge implies a compensation for the received offense. The goal is not to make
justice, but to free the tension that pain and hatred have caused to germinate in the offended.
The objective is to pay back in kind or cause a greater harm to the one who has caused the damage.
What does Jesus teach us? Matthew 5:38-39, 43-45. The context clarifies that this was an instruction for
The judges of Israel. Deuteronomy 19:17-21. Expresses the law of retaliation. Principle of exact retribution.
This defined justice and restricted revenge. It prohibited taking the law into one's own hands by means of the
vengeance. The scribes and Pharisees tried to use this law to justify personal vengeance.
It does not apply to interpersonal relationships but to the legal court at the judgment of God.
Our duty towards those who wrong us is not retaliation or vengeance but love.
Jesus mentions four illustrations that apply to non-retaliation. V. 40-42. Everyday situations.
Each one presents a bad person: One seeks to hit in the face, another to accuse before the law, another
demand service, another taking money. We need a lot of self-control. Jesus forbids the
vengeance, do not stimulate injustice.
We must put our anger in the hands of God. Romans 12:19. Anger is exclusive to God.
divine retribution. The manner and timing of the payment for man's wickedness is the prerogative of
God. Hebrews 10:30.
2. EVASION. Evasion or withdrawal can take many forms: Sometimes fleeing from a problem,
looking for a place to hide. Genesis 3:8. Adam's mistake was to flee.
Escaping reality in addictions: drugs, alcohol, pleasure, overeating, and overworking, etc.
But fleeing or abandoning a situation to avoid a problem is okay.
Evading can be a physical form of escape, leaving the family, leaving home, isolating oneself.
Lonely people are unhappy, they visit their families, they don't go out of the house.
Questions:
1. When things don't go the way he/she likes, does he/she generally react with anger?
2. If someone treats him unfairly, he does not rest until he has taken revenge on what he
What did they do?
Is someone always offending him/her?
Have you withdrawn from a difficult situation instead of dealing with it positively?
3. Human efforts only.
Do not try to solve your problems only by human efforts, You will never solve them unless you ...
He carries it in prayer. God wants you to confront them in His power.
There is no small problem that should not be presented to God. For example; do you pray for a
place to park your vehicle? God is the creator of the universe and it is God who also knows
When a little bird falls to the ground, who counts the number of its hairs. Matthew 10:28-31. Luke
21:18. 12:7. Acts 27:34. God cares about the small problems in our life and wants
help us. Let God help you.
We must follow the advice of the Lord. Prov. 3:5-8. Who does it say we should trust? In Him.
What do you know, in others, in their feelings? No. 'I must trust in the Lord.'
When we face problems it is God's opportunity to perform a miracle, the power of God is
unlimited. He will never disappoint you. Ephesians 3:20. 1 John 5:14-15.
4. Attack the person, not the reason for the problem. In a discussion, it is easy to forget the topic and attack.
to the other person with old issues. Feeling attacked, a person usually retaliates
aggression.
What does the Bible say? Prov. 15:1. 'A gentle answer calms the spirits, but a harsh answer...
it increases anger. BPPT. If it attacks the probabilities of solving the problem, it deepens.
Efesios 4:26-31.
5. Accumulating discomfort and resentment. Unresolved problems will worsen over time.
Holding grudges, irritations, and displeasures will lead you to actions that you will later regret.
It is necessary to resolve 'each day its own evil.' Otherwise, you will not know why you fight. Prov. 17:14.
Starting a lawsuit is like opening a dam; it's better to withdraw than to get entangled. BPPT. Prov. 20:3.
...we must not cause problems.
6. Fight over insignificant things. First, evaluate if the issue merits confrontation. Many times
The fights are about topics that are not worth it, sometimes it is the desire to dominate or control the other.
person. Prov. 19:13.
7. Take out your frustration on other people.
With parents, in-laws, children, friends, coworkers, bosses, etc.
One must confront the one who is truly the problem. Avoid transferring to third parties.
I Peter 3:10... do not let your tongue do harm, nor let your mouth speak lies.
a) You need to identify the root of the problem. What are the origins of the problems:
The results of Adam's sin. Gen. 3:1.15. The world damaged by sin. Gen 3:16-19
The sinful nature. Rom. 3:23. I John 1:8. Result of external influences such as disasters.
natural events, others' actions, the result of our decisions, etc.
Once this has been established, you will be better equipped to face the problem.
When you have defined it as a lake that can really be changed, you are ready for the next one.
step:
b) You may need to look for deeper causes. For example, if I need money to
buy food, and I won't receive my salary for another 6 days. What could be the cause of my
Need? To have spent the money on unnecessary things.
How to solve the problem? Make more careful plans for the future.
If the needs for survival are greater than what my pay can cover, then I must
to find a more permanent solution. The underlying cause is that I regularly need more money.
of which I have available to meet the needs. What should I do? Steal, get angry? No
I need a salary increase or to cut my expenses.
2. CAST YOUR PROBLEM ON THE LORD. God is bigger than any problem.
1) Turn your eyes away from problems and look to God who can do all things. He takes care of you, He has
All power. I Peter 5:7.
Talk about your problem with God, He knows it but expects you to approach Him in prayer.
Some write their requests and the date when they started to pray, and when the answer arrives, they note it down.
also. That reminds him to give thanks.
3) When you turn to the Lord, worry should disappear. Because you have trusted in
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Your questions could be these: What is my problem? What is the root? Is there a deeper root?
What could I consider? Is it possible to find a definitive solution? Have you talked to God about it?
3. CONSIDER ALL POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS. Sometimes there is more than one solution to a problem.
What you want is to find the best possible solution. What to do?
Discover biblical principles to apply to the problem.
2) Reject any opposing solution.
3) Seek the will of God.
4) Seek answers everywhere appropriate. (Counselors, friends)
Am I satisfied with the solution or do I need to make more adjustments? Does it need to review the problem of
from start to finish.
WAIT FOR GOD TO ACT FOR HIS BENEFIT.
The last principle in the Christian response to solving problems is to give Glory to God.
Let's develop the habit of praising God. Praise Him for His faithfulness, for His presence in the midst of
all problems. Fil. 1:12.
Pablo shares what he learned, allowing God to solve his problems. Phil 4:11-13.
The values of importance for Pablo were eternal.
PROBLEMS IN RELATIONSHIPS.
A. GREED. One of the biggest problems in our relationships with others is the
Greed or avarice is the desire to possess what another person has. We desire the power that someone else has.
Do not covet your neighbor's house; do not covet your neighbor's wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor. EXODUS 20:17.
We can admire others and enjoy them without having to possess the same. Romans 12:15.
The sin of greed can lead us to other sins: lying, stealing, getting angry, compromising your
Christian testimony, feeling jealous, getting bitter, hating, seeking revenge, deceiving.
Lessons:
1. The person in a leadership position should be the one who serves. Their position should be a
a way to exalt Christ, not oneself.
The person who holds a humble position must perform it 'as to the Lord'.
to fulfill it to the best of its possibilities.
The desire to be the greatest destroys peace, personal relationships, communion with God.
We must renounce our ambitions. Romans 2:7.
Luke 17:5-10. When we do what the Lord commands us, we should not seek honor and glory.
without having the attitude: 'We have done what is our responsibility to do'.
3. It is natural to expect approval when we do a good job. But the desire to be
Being honored and recognized should not be a reason to do something well.
A word of encouragement reduces problems and inspires people to work even harder.
with a better attitude. Let's recognize and appreciate what others do sincerely.
God will not judge us by our position but by the effort to fulfill well what is our obligation to do.
Matthew 25:14-30. We can sing to God be the GLORY.
The answer is simple: because when we have good relationships with others, it is when
we begin to see if indeed Jesus Christ is working in all areas of our life or
On the contrary, we continue to act in the flesh. Romans 12:18.
As far as it depends on us
A Christian should be willing to maintain good relationships with their neighbor. From one
effective communication in which we do not impose our criteria and understand that, in each
Wait, we are building a relationship.
We cannot discard our dealings with others when the slightest disagreement arises. For the
Opposite: "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you..."
Out of pride, we do not admit mistakes. We prefer that the difference deepens until it becomes a
problem.
When possible, let us have a friendly, understanding, and tolerant deal with all the people who...
They are found around. Some people are difficult, but have you thought that Christ Jesus loves them and
What would be the degree of love I would give them despite their flaws?
Romans 5:1. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19. We have all the characteristics of a victor, we can
to get along well with everyone?
Let us ask God for the strength to maintain an adequate and satisfactory channel of communication with
those around us, which will bring peace to your inner life and a good relationship with the Lord.
Know believers who want to be the first in line, they want to be given the best seats,
they always feel underestimated, they want the best of everything. When everything goes the way they like
They are happy. When problems arise, they become irritable.
Ephesians chapter 4-5. Paul deals with evidence of immaturity. It has to do with our relationships with
other people. Gives instructions on how to achieve maturity.
Lie. 4:25. to deceive through lies. What is said knowing it is not true with
intention to deceive.
One can lie by remaining silent, for social convenience, so that others feel better,
To hide something, to make others happy, to cover up mistakes, out of fear. Lies are told in a relationship.
at school. When they call on the phone, I usually lie saying that I am not here.
Colossians 3:9
Pablo teaches that one must discard lying. Eph. 4:31.
Reasons to tell the truth: We are all members of the same Body.
Causes of anger:
1. Be underestimated. Common cause of anger.
2. When someone else opposes and we cannot do what we want. The real cause is the SELF.
3. Jealousy when others succeed. When someone else gets the job. The cause is the SELF.
2. We can express it. Talk about it with another person, write it down and discard it, talk to the
a person you are angry with. It is a healthy option.
3. We can confess it. It is the best way to deal with it, talking to God brings calm.
Theft. 4:29. There are many ways to steal by deceiving. Offers, government theft, robbery.
Business, robbery in commerce. Amos 8:5-6.
1. To steal, shows a greedy spirit. To get something for nothing, to take advantage of
effort of others. Thieves are never satisfied with what they steal and always want
obtain greater profits. Stealing is a sin.
3. Being poor and stealing is not a valid excuse. Prov. 30:8-9. The Christian does not steal, but works hard.
something that is honest in the sight of God, so that he may have for himself, and to give to others.
A true Christian finds satisfaction and happiness in helping or giving to others, not in taking.
from them. 1Cor 6:10. Those who steal will not enjoy heaven.
Evidence of immaturity related to other people:
Insult Ephesians 4:29. Corrupted. What does Paul mean by 'corrupted words'?
Gr. Corrupt. It refers to fruits and fish in poor condition, it is something rotten that spoils it.
that surrounds, like fruit or meat. BPT. Translate: "Do not say bad words". This is a
lifestyle of false teachers.
3. What is the antidote? Stay away. Years in faith and much knowledge do not count here.
Biblical without practicing; the safe tactic is Joseph's: Run away..
Do not let these things even be named, 5:3. Do not mention sexual immorality.
And in 5:12, it tells us that it is shameful "even to talk about what they do in secret."
Use good words... to build up; our words should instruct, encourage, excite, to
to correct, it must be appropriate, timely. Prov. 15:23. 25:11. 24.26. A right answer is as
desirable as this intimate expression. BPT. It says: He who gives an honest answer is as if he gives
a kiss.
Give grace to the listeners. Live and speak with grace. Jesus is the example. Luke 4:22. Causes pleasure,
delight. Jesus said, Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. Matt. 12:34.
Conclusion: Let us apply the antidote that God has provided us. To maintain excellent relationships.
interpersonal.
RESOURCES TO ACHIEVE CHRISTIAN MATURITY IN OUR RELATIONSHIPS.
Growth does not happen accidentally; it does not happen if you remain seated. There are two sources of
power for Christian maturity: The power of God and the power of our own will
I. THE POWER OF GOD. It is the foundation on which your will should rest. Trying to be good without
First being born again, is never reaching the kind of behavior that Paul recommends.
In Ephesians Chapters 4 and 5.
II. THE POWER OF ONE'S OWN WILL. Eph. 4:27. 'Do not give place to the devil.' It means, to make room,
Accommodation, giving up a space. One must not open the door to the devil. Is it possible to give him a place?
1. How do we give way to the devil? Can the believer or the church give way to the devil?
Disobeying the Word of God, Lying, Ephesians 4:25. When we become angry, Ephesians 4:26.
When we steal, Eph. 4:29. Expressing corrupt words, Eph. 4:29.
Don't you think that celebrating Halloween gives room to the devil? By doing what we shouldn't do.
Not doing what we should be doing. Going to inappropriate places.
A negative example: The adultery of David: II Samuel 11.1-27. He was not doing what
he/she/you should have, v. 1. He/She/You did what he/she/you should not have done, looked, asked and fell, v. 2-4. Crossed the limits,
he/she disobeyed the law.
A Positive Example: Joseph: Genesis 39:1-23. Towards what he had to do, he was careful not to
to do what I should not have done, I do not cross the limits, I do not allow anything that does not please God.
He gave no place to the devil and fled.
Pastor Adrián Rogers wanted many birds to come to his garden: he bought food for them.
bird, a birdhouse and thus the little birds arrived at their garden. The reflection is that many of
we attract the enemy by creating a favorable environment. Satan cannot win any
land if you don't give it to him. I Peter 5:8.
2. How to resist the devil? James 4:7. Submitting gives you the strength to resist and the devil.
Run. Fight dressed in the armor of God. Ephesians 6:11.
The truth and the armor of Justice: Living righteously. V. 14.
Shoes on our feet with the readiness of the gospel: our testimony.
The shield of faith and the helmet of salvation.
Conclusion: Our will is effective when we are obedient to the instructions given by the
Word of God. Obedience is key to achieving maturity and overcoming the problems of the
immaturity.
FAMILY PROBLEMS
A teacher was trying to explain to the 8-year-old children what the sky is like, concluding by saying: 'I
I like to buy the sky with my home, a place overflowing with love, where I can find peace and
acceptance. Yes, heaven is like my home,' a child exclaimed; if heaven is like my home, I do not
I want to go there.
When the rules that God has given for the family are obeyed, unity is strengthened, each
member is satisfied and happy. When the family is disobeyed, it has problems and may...
disintegrate. In some countries, 50% of marriages end in divorce. The children who
They grow up in an unhappy family, and when they marry, they tend to create the same kind of home.
MARITAL PROBLEMS.
What is one of the serious problems that can occur between spouses?
The believer has a desire for the things of God, to attend church, to serve in a ministry.
2. The unbelieving spouse is attracted to the material, to the world.
There is discord in raising children and there is less likelihood that they will be Christians because of the
influence of the unconverted spouse.
4. Sometimes the unbelieving spouse draws the believer to the things of the world.
What is the solution? The best solution is to avoid it. II Corinthians 6:14-18.
Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For: There is no equality. Do not join with them.
What camaraderie does justice have with injustice? What do they have in common?
What communion does light have with darkness? Light cannot coexist with darkness.
What concord does Christ have with Belial? There can be no pact between Christ and Satan.
What does the believer share with the unbeliever? What do they have in common?
What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? There can be no covenant.
A believer has nothing in common with a non-believer, except for basic human elements.
Marrying while ignoring this biblical teaching opens the door to a life of headaches.
But can there be an arrangement? Or can there not be an arrangement between them because he has
opposite values? As long as one respects the way of life of the other, they can stay together.
1. Wealth enslaves. Matthew 19:16-22. The rich young man could not renounce it. He was possessed.
for the things.
Wealth gives a feeling of superiority. The world holds people in high esteem.
Those who possess wealth. The rich can be considered superior to those who are not.
Wealth distorts or changes our values. To value wealth more than life.
spiritual, trusting in what money can do instead of what God can do.
Money can provide physical comfort but not salvation.
Wealth is deceptive. Matthew 13:22. They do not last, Proverbs 27:24.
4. Wealth brings temptation to sin. Ephesians 5:1-6. It provokes dishonesty in your
business with others, not paying honest wages, James 5:1-6.
For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 1 Timothy 6:7.
2. Temptation to be dishonest. Earning dishonest money, taking something that belongs to the
patron or the neighbor. Exodus 20:15. Stealing what belongs to God.
The greatest dishonesty among the poor or the rich, Malachi 3:8.