For those who believe in the "health-wealth-gospel", some statements in the Holy Scriptures may be a paradox, because trials are part of our life as Christians. The apostle Peter tells us this: "In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 1:6-7).

Since we who are called will not be spared the challenges of life, what should we do when we have problems?

One thing we can do is to reflect on God's great power. Let's think about what God has done in the past and what He is doing now to fulfill His great plan of salvation. When we see our problems against the background of God's plan, the worries and needs of this life become much smaller.

As God's people, we can rely on this tremendous promise: "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose" (Romans 8:28).

This verse doesn't mean that everything that happens to us, of and by itself, is already for the best. It doesn't mean "how great it is" if we have lost our partner or our job or if our children are rebelling. Rather, it means that any situation can be for the best if we face the challenge properly and let God guide us.

So, how about us when we have problems? Do we really put God first in our problems and trials? We can do a quick self-test by asking ourselves if look to Him when we might worry about a problem that comes up: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7).

If we trust in God's help and guidance, we will endure, for God calls us to success and never tests us beyond our ability to bear a trial.

With these thoughts I wish everyone a rewarding Sabbath!