How do we react when something goes wrong?

We might be confronted by a new problem, or we lose the battle against a bad habit or things go differently than we had planned. Our human nature tends to look at things negatively when things go wrong. We might experience self-pity or feel trapped.

If we feel that way when we experience difficulties, we should remember the old wisdom that we have only lost the battle if we give up the fight. Why not look at mistakes and problems as a learning opportunity for doing things differently in the future?

Instead of letting our human nature get the best of us when things go wrong, we can ask God to help us maintain a positive focus. We start by thanking God for the things we have and the things He does for us. King David tell us: "It is good to give thanks to the Lord .&nbps;. . For you, Lord, have made me glad through Your work; I will triumph in the works of Your hands and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High" (Psalm 92:1,5).

The apostle Paul also has some good advice for us: "Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy – meditate on these things" (Philippians 4:8).

If we ask God for help in maintaining a positive attitude, our problems and disappointments won’t seem so bad. We aren't talking about self-confidence where we elevate ourselves "by our own bootstraps." No, we focus on the reality of God's goodness and mercy, we trust in the strength that He can provide. We also have the assurance that He will not allow us to be tested above our ability to cope: "God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it" (1 Corinthians 10:13).

With these thoughts I wish us all a rewarding Sabbath!