Getting Ahead of the Crisis Cycle

Getting Ahead of the Crisis Cycle

by Dr. Brian C. Hughes

Crises happen. They come. It isn’t a matter of ‘if’, it’s a matter of ‘when’. James acknowledges this truth; “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:2-4, NIV) Not if a trial comes, but when.

The writer of the proverb knows this truth. “The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it.” (Proverbs 27:12, NIV) Not if danger comes, but when.

Jesus said it, too. "Why do you call me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say? I will show you what he is like who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice. He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete." (Luke 6:46-49, NIV) Not if the storm comes, but when.

Jesus’ words strike at the core of our crisis management center: When the storms come in your life, how do you do? The answer to that question is a direct result of your answer to this one: On what have you founded your life? Jesus says that when we build our lives and our families on His teachings and the reality of His Truth, we can withstand and even overcome any storm, trial, danger, or attack.

Let me encourage you to ask these questions:

• On what have I built my life?
• How much of Jesus’ teachings and the teachings of the Bible do I apply in my life?
• What can I do to more effectively learn the teachings of the Bible?
• Is there anything I can do to more effectively live out these teachings?
• Is anyone helping to hold me accountable to a life built on Jesus Christ?

Ask yourself these questions, but also ask someone else who knows you well to answer them for you. Tell them you want their honest answers. This could also make a good small group exercise.

Over a meal, get your family talking about this, too. Ask:

• How are we doing as a family?
• Do you feel like we listen well to each other?
• Do we practice the teachings of Jesus?
• What would you say is the foundation for our family?
• Are we prepared for a crisis?
  

If your spouse and your kids know that you really want to know how they feel (and that you will really hear them), they will pour the answers out, and your family will be stronger for it. Be sure to pray and thank God together after this conversation for each member of your family, and ask for His help as you make some changes.

I cannot overstate how important your small group could be in this process. If you are not a part of one, you need to be. If you will call our office or send an email, we’ll get you plugged in.