How Prayer Can Help You Solve Problems
Twelve Principles of Self-Reliance
Principle 6: Solve problems
We often plead with God for the things that we want. But it may be useful to pause and ask ourselves, “What does God want for me?”
Life can be hard. Sometimes it seems like we face one challenge after another, punctuated by short moments of happiness. We spend a lot of our time hoping and wishing for things to improve. But challenges can bring growth, and growth is essential to our progression as we move forward.
How to start.
Sometimes we feel unhappy, and we don’t even know why. Something is out of balance or just not working. It could be a relationship, something at work, an unresolved issue, or an unrealistic expectation. The first place to start is by identifying the problem. This takes humility, meditation, and prayer. When we pray, we should try to have an honest conversation with God: “Please help me understand what is troubling me.” Take out a notebook or smartphone and record your impressions.
Define the problem.
As you pray about the problem, try to give it some definition. For example, let’s say that the problem you discover is that you are losing interest in your work. You were able to make this discovery because you were willing to be humble and ask God for help.
Study the options.
We all go through times when we lose our enthusiasm for work. It can help to find other activities that provide fulfillment. Many people feel happier when they help out in their community. If you are interested, take a look at JustServe.org for ideas. But providing service might not be the only answer. Losing interest in a job might mean a career change. Make a list of the kind of work that makes you happy. Check off those things that are available in your current job. If you are missing out on a lot of them, it may be time to start looking for something new.
Take action.
Before you dive right in, pray for guidance. Be humble and teachable. As poet Thomas Moore wrote, “Humility, that low, sweet root, from which all heavenly virtues shoot.“ Give the problem your best thinking, and work hard to come up with your best solution. And then, when the time is right, go for it! Act in faith and go forward with your solution.
What happens if your solution doesn’t work? Now what?
Some problems are more complex than others. Don’t give up. Just go through the steps again, and keep praying:
- Define the problem.
- Study the options.
- Take action.
Remember, this is about your personal growth. You have to put the work in. God doesn’t step in and solve problems for us, but rather He reassures us, confirms that we are on the right path, and gives us courage to press forward.
A few things to think about:
- God doesn’t grant wishes; He loves, supports, and encourages.
- Consider the best solution to a problem or challenge, and then ask God for confirmation.
- If at first you don’t succeed, you’re normal. Just try again.