CHOICES: What Are They?
If Christians respond poorly when faced with problems, how can we expect nonbelievers to handle troubles in their lives? Our Christian credibility is at stake. How we face crisis determines how others perceive our faith.
When believers hold up under pressure, the world takes notice. Family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers are more likely to turn to those whose faith remains strong in hardship. We build credibility by living what we believe, not just professing it.
Consistency is the measure of true faith. Sadly, many who call themselves Christians lack this consistency—reacting to circumstances instead of responding in trust. The question then becomes: If believers crumble under pressure, what hope do others have?
Biblical vs. Non-Biblical Ways of Facing Adversity
The Bible gives clear instruction on handling conflict, problems, trials, and tribulations. In his teaching on Interpersonal Relationships and Scriptural Conflict Resolution, George Sanchez of The Navigators helped reshape the Christian understanding of handling strife.
Through years of personal and professional experience, I’ve learned this:
There are three non-biblical and only one biblical way to deal with adversity.
Non-Biblical Approaches | Description |
Running from problems | Avoiding responsibility and consequences |
Focusing on side issues | Distracting from the real issue |
Going around the problem | Ignoring it, hoping it resolves itself |
Biblical approach | Facing the issue directly, trusting God through it |
Running From Problems
Many prefer to flee rather than face their issues—just like Jacob, who ran from Esau after stealing his birthright and blessing. He escaped to Haran but carried guilt and fear for years until reconciliation came much later (Genesis 27–33).
Running doesn’t resolve the problem—it multiplies it. What could have been settled early becomes generational pain. We see the same pattern in modern life:
- Divorce: Running from broken relationships.
- Births out of wedlock: Abandoning family responsibilities.
- Abortion: Ending life in the name of “choice.”
- Political gridlock: Avoiding accountability.
- Church splits: Escaping reconciliation.
- Economic entitlement: Demanding rights without responsibility.
As Christians, we must counsel and walk alongside those caught in such patterns—not with condemnation, but with compassion and biblical guidance toward healing and reconciliation.
Focusing on Side Issues
When we can’t run, we often redirect attention to something less painful—a side issue.
Example: In Numbers 13, Israel’s spies saw the Promised Land but feared the giants.
- Main problem: Lack of trust in God.
- Side issue: Fear of men and rumors.
- Result: 40 years of wandering and lost blessings.
The same happens today. Let’s explore a few examples.
- Divorce and Avoidance
Rather than address sin, pride, or communication breakdowns, couples may attack one another instead of the issue. Counseling can redirect focus toward forgiveness, trust, and restoration, but many refuse the discomfort of truth. God calls us to reconciliation, not revenge.
- Children Born Out of Wedlock
Here, the real issue isn’t the baby—it’s a society that glorifies promiscuity while discouraging responsibility. The church must respond with grace and discipleship, not shame. True ministry focuses on rebuilding relationships with God and restoring self-worth, not perpetuating judgment.
- Abortion and Selfishness
At its root, abortion often stems from self-focus and fear. Genuine ministry here requires tenderness, not debate.
Real issue: guilt, shame, and loss of hope.
Side issue: political arguments over rights.
The church’s call is to help women heal, rediscover forgiveness, and reconnect with God’s redeeming grace.
- Church Splits
Disagreements over trivial matters—music, colors, or control—can divide God’s people.
But true ministry works toward reconciliation, humility, and unity. Remember: “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” (Mark 3:25)
- Entitlement Culture
From a biblical lens, entitlement is modern idolatry. Society now expects blessings without labor, echoing the sin of sloth. Ministry must shift the focus from dependency on man to dependency on God.
As 2 Thessalonians 3:10 says:
“If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.”
Going Around the Problem
When avoidance and distraction fail, many simply circle the mountain—just as Israel did in the wilderness after defying God’s command.
“You have skirted this mountain long enough.” — Deuteronomy 2:3 (NKJV)
This approach only allows the problem to grow, becoming the center of life—dominating thought, emotion, and energy.
Christians must resist this trap. God calls us to face problems with courage, truth, and humility. As Peter writes:
“Always be ready to give an answer for the hope that is within you.” — 1 Peter 3:15
Responding Faithfully Brings Hope
Running, avoiding, or circling only deepen despair. But responding biblically—facing problems with prayer, accountability, and trust—builds endurance and maturity. Every trial is a test of trust.
When we walk through the fire rather than around it, God refines our faith and reveals His glory.
Ministry Reflection
In ministry, our goal is not judgment, but restoration.
We walk beside those who’ve fallen, reminding them that every choice can lead back to grace.
The Christian’s call is not to escape trouble—but to face it with Christ.
Be blessed, until next time…