Acting out. Avoidance. Denial. Rationalization. Repression.
All of these
are examples of coping mechanisms
people use to handle the pressures and
difficulties they experience, but none of
them cures the root issue. If you have
money problems, for instance, avoiding
the mailbox that may contain bills will
not solve your financial issues.
Some researchers see a
direct correlation between
increased pressure and coping mechanisms that result
in alcoholism, drug addiction, divorce, abuse, and
other social problems. Is
there something that can
free us from these worries
and tensions, so we can better handle them in a healthy
way?
Jesus confronted head-on the issue
of handling everyday problems. He said
that people should give God—who already knows their needs—the central
place in their lives, and these concerns
will then be cared for. “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything
you need” (Matthew 6:33).
This advice runs counter to our inclinations. Many of us get frenzied over
our problems—both real and imagined.
We don’t feel we have time for God because our energy becomes depleted by
simply coping—just getting by in this
crazy world. But when we make God
our number one priority, he gives us the
resources and strength to successfully
face the demands of each day.
You assign God first place by believing that although your sin has separated
you from him (Romans 3:23), Jesus
Christ, the Son of God, sacrificed his life
to pay the debt for your sin
(John 3:16).
Admit to God your need
for him and trust in Jesus
as the one who rescues you
from sin. Give God control
of your life and live as the
Bible, God’s Word, instructs
you.
When you do that, you
have obeyed the command
to seek his Kingdom above
all else, and God will provide the rest.
He becomes your Lord, and his strength
will empower you to meet whatever
problems you will face.
The gospel isn’t a coping mechanism.
It is the truth that will set you free.
[Jim Kraus]
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