Crisis Management Steps for Christians

by Mr. Whitney V. Myers

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The Battle is Not Yours but God's - 2 Chronicles 20:15 - Photo by Whitney V. Myers

"Do not fear or be dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours but God's."  (2 Chronicles 20:15)

Purpose:
     This article presents five steps to deal with our personal crises - steps that are scriptural, methodical, and effective.  All of us at times either have faced or will face personal crises.  Circumstances like this strike at the core of our being – physical, spiritual, and emotional.  The Bible is a great comfort to us any time, but especially during difficult times - such as the times we are going through now. 

Step 1: Recall God's Promises

     The first place to turn to is to the Bible.  Get your attention off of your problem and on to God.  Read and meditate upon God’s promises.  This step has a vastly therapeutic effect. 

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
    though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam,
    though the mountains tremble at its swelling."  (Psalm 46:1-3)

For your encouragement, I have included links to 26 additional "promises passages" from God's word.  You may see all of the verses listed below written out in just one click here (Ref. 1 - "Bible Verses for Times of Crisis"). 

God's promises verses: Deuteronomy 31:6; Joshua 1:9; Psalm 16:8; Psalm 23:1; Psalm 27:1; Psalm 34:4; Psalm 34:7; Psalm 55:22; Psalm 56:3-4; Psalm 68:19-20; Psalm 91:1-6; Psalm 103:1-5; Proverbs 3:5-6; Isaiah 26:3-4; Isaiah 40:31; Isaiah 41:10; Isaiah 43:2; Matthew 11:28; John 14:27; Romans 8:28; Romans 15:13; Philippians 4:6-7; Philippians 4:19; Hebrews 6:19; 1 Peter 5:6-7; Revelation 21:4.

Read your Bible regularly, not just when you have a crisis.  Memorize scripture verses.  That way, when a crisis arises, you can immediately draw upon familiar, comforting words of scripture, and you will be well-equipped to deal with difficult situations when they occur (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

Step 2: Trust in God Through Prayer

     Prayer is an open conversation with God.  Even a short prayer, "Help me," is long enough.  Talk with God and ask him to take care of your problem.  Trust God to act (Proverbs 3:5-6).  Ask God to take care of your problem according to God's will, not your own (1 John 5:14-15).  Trust that God is in control of the situation.

Step 3: Solicit Prayer Support from other Christians

     Other Christians can bring you much encouragement by praying with you or for you.  Share your need or concern with Christian friends, and ask for their prayers.  When you are "down," others can pray from strength and lift you up.  "Plug in" with one or more small groups of Christians, for example, a Bible study or prayer group, or a fellowship group.  Small groups can provide you tremendous personal support (Matthew 18:19-20; Galatians 6:2; James 5:16).

Step 4: Believe that God Will Act

     Keep the faith.  Remember that you have prayed.  Keep on praying.  Don’t give up.  Feed your faith, not your doubts.  Whichever one you feed will grow (Luke 18:1-8; Mark 9:21-24; Psalm 37:5; Hebrews 11:1).  God will do what he promises.

Step 5: Testify Publicly to the Results that God Provides

     Tell others how God answers your prayers.  By this, you will encourage other people.  Jesus expects you to “go public” with your testimony about his work in your life – that God may be glorified (Matthew 10:32; Mark 5:18-20; Psalm 66:16, 1 Peter 3:15).

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Praise God that God's word never passes away (Matthew 24:35)!  We can always count on God to help us through difficult times.  God's promises are true and everlasting.

Reference:
1.  http://www.scriptureway.com/bible-verses-for-times-of-crisis.html