In life, it is easy to become entangled in the web of our problems—rehearsing them in our minds, talking about them endlessly, and even praying from a place of worry rather than faith. But as believers, we are called not to practice our problems but to practice God’s presence, promises, and power. This spiritual discipline shifts our attention from our circumstances to the One who controls them, empowering us to walk by faith and not by sight.
1. What Does It Mean to Practice Your Problems?To “practice your problems” means to dwell on them—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It’s a form of meditation, but instead of meditating on God’s Word, we meditate on fear, lack, pain, or uncertainty. This repetitive focus amplifies our anxieties rather than our faith.
Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) reminds us:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Practicing problems is often rooted in anxiety, but scripture commands us to exchange that anxiety for prayer, trust, and thanksgiving.
2. Choose to Meditate on God’s Word Instead
Instead of rehearsing problems, the Bible encourages us to meditate on truth and God’s promises.
Joshua 1:8 (NLT) says:
“Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.”
God’s Word is the antidote to our worry. When we choose to reflect on His faithfulness instead of our fear, our hearts are transformed, and peace becomes our portion.
3. Faith Over Fear: Rehearsing God’s Faithfulness
David faced many real and dangerous problems, yet he continually reminded himself of God’s past faithfulness. When facing Goliath, he didn’t rehearse the giant’s size or strength—he recalled the lion and the bear he had defeated by God’s power.
1 Samuel 17:37 (NIV):
“The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.”
This is the mindset of someone who practices solutions—not in their strength but in God’s proven track record.
Speak Life, Not Death
Our words have power. When we constantly speak about our problems, we reinforce their hold on us. But when we declare God’s Word, we shift the atmosphere around us.
Proverbs 18:21 (ESV) says:
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.”
Even in prayer, God invites us to speak from faith. He already knows our struggles; what He desires is that we partner with Him in declaring victory.
5. Set Your Mind on Things Above
Colossians 3:2 (NIV) urges us:
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
This doesn’t mean ignoring our problems—it means we don’t let them dominate our lives. We acknowledge reality but focus on the ultimate reality: God is sovereign, and nothing is impossible with Him.
Conclusion
“Don’t practice your problems” is more than a motivational phrase—it’s a biblical principle. God doesn’t want us to live in cycles of fear and anxiety. He calls us to lift our eyes, shift our perspective, and rehearse His promises. When we stop practicing our problems and start practicing His presence, we’ll find peace in the middle of the storm and hope even in the valley.
In full bloom,
Nishia 🙂
