Let’s take the principles in the book of Proverbs and organize them so that we have a broad and yet detailed approach to solving the problems that confront us.  We do this by working through a series of questions.

Q1: Do I see any problems developing (Prov 27:23-24)

Solomon tells the herder to be constantly aware of the condition of his flock because his future prosperity rests on this information.  Likewise, we need to diligently watch over the things and relationships that God has entrusted to us.   A small problem that is caught, doesn’t become a big one.

Q2: What is the problem? (Prov. 22:13a)

The person in the proverb discovered a lion outside.  He decided that it was a problem.   We need to recognize a problem for what it is.  Most problems seem to enjoy making an appearance and aggravating us.  But we tend to procrastinate – and postpone doing anything about them.

Q3: What may happen if the problem is not addressed? (Prov. 22:13)  

This is where you count the potential costs.  The sluggard knew that he would be eaten by the lion if nothing were done about it.   In the same way, we need to ask ourselves, “What could possibly happen if I don’t take care of this problem right now?”   When we count the potential costs – we are borrowing pain from the future which tends to motivate us into action today. (16:26)

Q4: To whom do I go for advice.?  (Prov. 11:14; 20:18)

                        a. Find an advisor who fears the Lord. (Prov. 9:10)

                        b. Find an advisor who is mature. (Prov. 20:29; 23:22)

                        c. Find an advisor who has a good reputation.  (Prov. 22:1)

                        d. Find an advisor who is objective.

                        e. Get more than one opinion (Prov. 11:14)

Q5: What does God’s Word say about it?   (Prov. 30:5)

When the Word does speak to an issue, we want to be very careful to drink up every bit of information we can.  Get yourself a good study Bible, maybe even a topical Bible.  And make sure you have a concordance so you can search out various themes from Proverbs.

Q6: What are the possible approaches to this problem? (Prov. 20:18)

Not every problem in life can be solved but there is a lot we can do with 95% of them.  You need to start with a plan.   Better yet is to create several possible solutions to your problem, which will enable you to compare and contrast and then choose the best one.   Get out a legal pad & create a chart like this & then brainstorm.

First Option  ____________________________________________________________

Strengths                                 Weaknesses

_________________________          ________________________

_________________________          ________________________

_________________________          ________________________

Provide a second and a third option as well, contrasting the strengths (pros) and weaknesses (cons) of each. 

Q7: Have I prayed for wisdom and help?  (Prov. 15:29; James 1:5-6)

Our choices matter to God.  Therefore, we should expect Him to give us the wisdom we need to make a wise one.  Seeking it in prayer is essential.

Q8: Which option do I choose?  (Prov. 19:21)

At some point, you will need to choose.  If we take the information we have gathered and bathe it in prayer –God will make it clear which option to choose. 

Q9: How and when do I start?  (Prov. 20:5)

So, you have a plan now.  You need to decide how and when you will start. Some of us can create a plan but fail to implement it.  The wise person will prioritize the steps and set a hard and fast date on which to tackle the project. 

Q10:  When do I plan to be finished?  (Prov. 26:15)

Some of us are starters, but not finishers.  Something that would help us to overcome this is to set a hard and fast date by which your project will be completed.

The wise person tackles problems as they come, knowing that to ignore them is to multiply the damage. 

CONCLUSION

So now you have a management plan for the problems that come your way.  But what if you implement your plan and you fail to solve the problem?   That’s the beauty of having created 3 original options.  You can go to option number two if you need and then even number three if necessary.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

FOR FURTHER CONSIDERATION

1. Which of the problem-solving steps tend to come to you naturally?

2. Which do you tend to ignore?

3. Which simple problem will you being to tackle with this problem solvers worksheet?