Life is filled with challenges, yet these cannot be attributed to Jesus—He is the solution, not the source of problems. The root of humanity’s struggles lies in our failure to steward Earth’s resources responsibly, compounded by the influence of the devil. Even a converted individual may face greater trials, but Christ remains the answer to every problem that appears daunting to humanity.
The Origin of Problems
Every person inherits struggles from past generations, whether through persecution, neglect, or unresolved responsibilities. Yet, Jesus offers immediate deliverance. A “problem” is any circumstance that causes unbearable distress, hindering one from fulfilling their purpose. These may manifest as financial crises, health issues, or obstacles blocking one’s potential.
Problems often arise from ignorance, harmful actions, or malevolent intent. But when asked the question of why one man had been born blind, Jesus also answered, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him” (John 9:2-3 NKJV). However, everything points to sin that entered humanity, blinding them to the works of God that Jesus came to reveal, as His primary mission.
God is all-knowing, but as humans, our knowledge is limited because of sin. The world is full of those who thrive on others’ suffering, while science seeks to explain disasters, both natural and man-made. Even parasitic organisms were created for a purpose, although they stunt the growth and threaten the survival of others. All these phenomena reflect a broader truth: mismanagement disrupts balance.
Humanity’s Role and Responsibility
God entrusted humanity with Earth’s care (Genesis 1:28). Every creation has a purpose, though not all purposes are yet known. Tragically, ignorance leads to misuse—extinctions, drug abuse, and even the idea of nuclear weapons stem from failing to discern the inherent value in God’s design. The extinction of some species creates voids that endanger our survival, proving that mismanagement is the core of human survival crises.
The Mindset of Short-Term Gain
Many prioritise immediate benefits over long-term consequences—corruption, deforestation, and resource depletion result. Immediate solutions are promoters of future survival problems that require a well-informed understanding. Unlike scavengers, humans possess foresight, yet often act without it. Jesus’ calming of the storm (Mark 4:35-41) revealed two truths:
- He is the solution to all problems.
- Humanity, created in God’s image, carries latent authority over creation.
Ignoring the Creator’s wisdom is like relying on uninformed informants in fixing a car without consulting its maker, which should be regarded as futile and foolish. Problems persist because many people reject Christ’s revelation, seeking answers in flawed systems. Cunning as Satan is, He presents himself as highly valuable and informative to an uninformed population that seeks to address current issues without considering future consequences. Consequently, the primary cause of the numerous problems afflicting planet Earth stems from those attempting to resolve immediate challenges while inadvertently creating future complications.
There is a clear distinction between recognising widespread problems without comprehending their causes or solutions and possessing both the knowledge of their origins and the means to address them. This was the purpose of Jesus’ coming. A truly knowledgeable individual does not succumb to despair but can be depended upon to offer solutions to prevailing issues. Humanity’s most profound problem lies in not knowing Jesus and understanding the significance of knowing Him. In Jesus, there are no problems, only solutions.
Christ: The Revelation of God’s Plan
Jesus came not just as a religious figure but as the embodiment of truth (John 14:6). His miracles were signposts, pointing to humanity’s redeemed potential. When He said, “Your faith has healed you” (Mark 5:34), He affirmed that belief unlocks divine solutions. A person who knows Jesus ceases to be overwhelmed by problems.
Yet, many dismiss Him, clinging to worldly wisdom, which has been attributed to the current catastrophic conditions throughout the world. Others see nothing wrong, except blaming others for all wrongs, without blaming themselves. Scripture warns that God’s ways confound the “wise” (1 Corinthians 1:27). However, Jesus revealed that true understanding begins with a childlike humility (Mark 10:15)—a paradox the proud cannot grasp.
Victory Over the Greatest Problem: Death
Christ’s resurrection conquered humanity’s final enemy: death. “O death, where is your sting?” (1 Corinthians 15:55). By identifying with Jesus, we transcend the Law’s bondage, for He fulfilled it (Matthew 5:17). Sin thrives where solutions are sought apart from Him, but in Christ, sin loses its power (1 John 2:4). Even those comfortably blaming others for the wrongs of the world suddenly discover, the real problem of death, facing them. No human escapes problems that culminate in death.
The Pearl of Great Price
Jesus’ parables of the hidden treasure and priceless pearl (Matthew 13:44-46) illustrate the joy of discovering His worth. Once we recognise Him as the answer, worldly alternatives pale. Sharing knowledge is good, but He remains the unchanging foundation. Ignoring Jesus is a common occurrence, but recognising Him has the potential to create a profound and overwhelming response, as He holds the answers to all challenging problems. He is the most invaluable discovery, unparalleled by anything else ever uncovered in this world.
Conclusion
The world obsesses over problems, rather than attending to solutions; Christ offers liberation from that mindset. He is not a distant figure but the living key to all mysteries. The solace found in the denial of His existence is profound, yet it stands as the root cause of all prevailing issues. Those who seek Him find not just answers but their divine purpose. As Paul proclaimed, “Thanks be to God, who gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!” (1 Corinthians 15:57).
In Him, problems fade, and life’s true meaning shines.
Andrew Masuku is the author of Dimensions of a New Civilisation, laying down standards for uplifting Zimbabwe from the current state of economic depression into a model for other nations worldwide. A decaying tree provides an opportunity for a blossoming sprout. Written from a Christian perspective, the book is a product of inspiration, relieving those who have witnessed the strings of unworkable solutions, leading to the current economic and social decay. Most Zimbabweans should find the book to be a long-awaited providential oasis of hope, in a simple conversational tone.
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