This time of year I talk with many people who are unhappy. They say they spent too much over the holidays. Or, they are fat. Or their spouse doesn't look lovingly into their eyes as they once did. Grumpiness takes over and moves through the day. I lived in that hell until a wise woman taught me a new trick.
She said, "What do you do when you are struggling?"
I said, "I pray and ask God to solve my problems."
I replied, "Usually, I hear nothing back from God and I grumble some more, which takes me further down, then I blame others for my circumstances. I lose hope and then I say "Why? Why is this happening to me? Why am I being punished?"
She offered, "You might be asking the wrong question."
Confused, I said, "Tell me more."
She explained. "I have found that God rarely seems to answer my prayers about fixing my messed up life. He is using adversity to teach me a valuable lesson. So, now I ask, 'How do I respond?' When trouble comes, I can pray for others, help someone less fortunate, read something powerful and continue through my day calmly and peacefully. Sometimes I am acting. But more times than not, I receive true peace in my soul that comes from turning over my worries to My Creator. I believe He is in charge and can handle anything I throw at Him."
I tried this simple solution and it worked. When I feel myself twisting into a knot, I stop and pray. I say, "God this is too big for me. Will you help me? I am ready to learn the lesson."
Now I live with confidence knowing I am asking the right question.