3 Ways to Find the Source of the Problem

You can laugh if you want but as I was putting on some comfy pants this morning, they got caught under my feet. I tried to tug around my knee to get them over but I heard something rip lol. I then pulled them up at the source of the problem, my feet where they were stuck.

It made me think about how we should deal with all issues – at the source of the problem. How many of you have tried a shortcut like I did to fix a problem, only to find that you made matters worse? I guess I’m writing this to you all and to myself that we should deal with things at the source if we want a smoother outcome.

I’m not just making this stuff up or getting it from Psychologists when they say, “let’s explore the source of your ________ (insert your problem)”. This is actually biblical. Matthew 18:15 says, “If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense”. How many of us talk with everybody else first (gossip) instead of talking to who has upset us? This not only applies to handling conflict but to handle many issues.

Not only should we address the source of our issues, but we should go to the source of truth for all of life’s problems, God. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take (Proverbs 3:5-6).”

“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

All of life’s questions can be answered by prayer and in the Word. 2 Timothy 3:16 says: “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.”

My husband and I have made a point to read at least one chapter every morning before we begin our day. We wake up at different times so we don’t do it together but I believe it’s always good to start off the day with prayer and maybe some scripture reading. This helps me be equipped with strength and joy before beginning the day and helps keep my armor of God shiny. I don’t want any rust on there lol.

I’ve noticed on days that I don’t pray, that the day doesn’t go so well. Even on bad days where I’ve prayed, things aren’t as difficult because the Lord helps me through. See whatever we face, whether it’s a good or bad day, we can make it through with the Lord’s help.

3 Ways to Find the Source of the Problem

Pray to the Lord
Seek the Lord in scripture
Soul search

See I believe that one of the biggest detriments that society as a whole face is impatience. As Christians, we learn from the Bible that patience is a virtue and pays off. Still, it’s hard to put into practice. I think many have lost sight of the last verse in Psalm 27. “Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.” Sometimes we even have to wait on the Lord for answers but we can be brave and courageous even in the waiting. For more on this see this post.

The bottom line is when issues arise, we ought to not only soul search for the source but also seek the Lord by prayer and in His word. Of course, we shouldn’t be seeking the Lord only when we have challenges or we have a very shallow faith that is considered lukewarm. I don’t like my coffee lukewarm, I like it hot so I get why the Lord doesn’t want lukewarm followers :).

“If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.” Jeremiah 29:13

A Prayer For You

Lord Jesus, please show us how to deal with matters at the source and to seek You first in all things. You are the source of my life – my peace, my comfort, my joy, and my strength. I trust You to guide me and make my paths straight. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Stay hopeful!