We are in a critical period where there are problems in every direction - health, family, economic, sexual and numerous other problems, all stress-related. Even suicide has increased dramatically. Problems, problems, everywhere!

Problems are gates to change. When a problem arises, it is an opportunity for change and it has the potential to give you solutions, bring out new ideas, wisdom and hidden gifts. Problems have the potential to increase your general capacity for problem solving. They allow us to dig deeper, spiritually speaking, and increase our trust in God. Oftentimes, however, the problem is not really the problem. The problem with problems lies in how we deal with our problems.

Problems can create new relationships (I Samuel 17: 57-58) and there is always something within your surroundings - regardless of how small it may be - that can help you out of your problems. In II Kings 4, the creditors were coming to collect from the widow. But because she followed God's instructions, the small bottle of oil she had causes her to move from total indebtedness to total debt freedom. There is something that you have that can take you out of your situation - out of poverty and cause you to become a major shareholder!

Without problems to solve you would not earn a salary. Certain professions would not exist. People excel when they solve problems. What sometimes seems like a major problem is oftentimes what God uses to promote you. The more problems exist, the greater the need for solutions. Solutions take us out of poverty.

Further to all this, problems develop your leadership skills and expose those around you with wrong motives. When problems cease to exist, your services are no longer required.