Are you a problem solving parent?

There is a world of difference between a person who has a big problem and a person who makes a problem big.- John Maxwell

Our perception of what constitutes as a problem, is more often than never, exaggerated. A constant headache is soon escalated to a brain tumor, based on nothing other than our own diagnosis. How many other times haven't we allowed small issues to become life issues. Yet, we can all bear witness to times when we genuinely felt like crying about something that happened, but can now retell in laughter!

Such are the woes of people and slightly more demanding for parents, who have to think on behalf of our children! That often distinguishes us from the rest of the human species...

The world calls it your gut feeling, I call it my spirit being. The  voice or prompting which lets you know whether something or someone has good intentions towards you or your loved ones.

How do you deal with it?
Grab your phone to call or text  someone?
Start panicking and create a scene?
Allow your mind to conjure up the worst case scenario?

We might think all of the above applies when you're a parent, but there are better ways to deal with challenges.

This has been my sure fire way of coping with almost eight years of single parenting and being far from family. I also have my 'crazy cycle' moments on occasion, however  this is what I know works for everything; from nightmares to a broken down car.

Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos

Dealing with challenges beyond your control:

* Pray, an honest powerful prayer from your fear or pain.
* Acknowledge your limitations, but stay open to the limitless power of God.
* Unpack the problem in order to determine its merit.
* Think it through before sharing it with anyone.
* Let it go and trust that the correct guidance or help will come
* Pray intentionally for patience and wisdom
* Realise that experiencing difficulty is not a reflection on you as a person, but rather a right of passage to growth.
* Remember: Nothing lasts forever!

Going through these motions of problem solving often creates opportunities for godly wisdom to fill an anxious heart and mind.

Share how you deal with inevitable life challenges.