YELLOW PAD

One young lady said: “I don’t even know how many problems I have, because math is one of my problems!”

All of us humans have problems. Rich and poor, small and great, all have to deal with difficulties. A problem is a matter or situation regarded as unwelcome or harmful and needing to be dealt with and overcome. How do you cope with problems?

Celebrities have problems most of us will never have. Left-handed people, tall and short people, or those who have peanut allergies face unique and challenging complications. Not to mention the social outcasts like Dallas Cowboy fans or people who drive Hummers. These folks have singular but very real issues to face. Help is on the way.

For years I have used the “Yellow Pad” method of dealing with problems. Simply draw a line down the center of the page from top to bottom. To the left of the line, write down any negatives in your life. That can include worries with health, finances, marriage, family, job, weight, and addictions. Be specific and honest. These will become prayer requests.

Can we qualify what negative problems rise to the level for “Yellow Pad” consideration? Stuff like having a slow internet connection or getting the wrong latte at Starbucks fall beneath the “Yellow Pad” criteria. This also includes the horrors of tangled earphones, dead batteries in your Kindle, and leaky ice cream cones. Get a grip and learn to handle those things like an adult.

On the other side of the page, write down the positives of your life. Positives include present day joys, and future hopes and dreams that live in your heart. This may be a harder list to create. But just taking time to celebrate the good things that God has brought into your life can be revealing and liberating.

Once your list is complete, write down this Scripture at the bottom of the negative list: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

Then, write down this Scripture at the bottom of the positive list: “Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Ephesians 5:20)

Now, go to prayer and believe God for answers. Some of the negatives may require you to seek out a pastor or counselor for help. Don’t hesitate to respond and do what is needed to change for the better. Can I pray with you about anything? Click here