The fence was progressing well. As I stood back, I could be proud of what had so far been achieved. Yes, it certainly was a solid structure. The posts all lined up just as they should. They were all upright and didn’t lean. This was a big job, but it was progressing well. The first twenty metres of fence had been fitted with rails and I could see that there were no problems here.

That wasn’t to last! And isn’t that always the way! There seems to come a time when we are forced by circumstances to extend our thinking to solve one problem or another. The problem was my problem, I had to accept that, and it was something that I had to face. I could either see the problem as an opportunity to learn and grow in my skills and abilities or as a major stumbling block and let it be a real burden. Getting some expert advice on fence building helped, so with a determined and positive attitude I continued.

The fence is not perfect! But, it’s pretty good! I know where the faults are, but the fence is solid and will serve well for a very long time to come.

Life throws up many challenges to each of us. They can either weigh us down or they can give us confidence and a new burst of energy and enthusiasm. It all depends on the way we approach those challenges. A problem is there to be solved and it is finding the solution that should be our focus. After all, it is the outcome which is important.

How we deal with our problems says a lot about who we are. If we whinge, complain and spread the gloom far and wide, it’s like stepping in a puddle - the water gets muddier and muddier. As Christians we are challenged to see our circumstances as opportunities to give glory to God. We think of others as we work for solutions which build everyone up.

We all have problems from time to time. May God give us the wisdom and love to sort them out by dealing directly with the people involved and by working positively for a solution.

Neil P. Schiller