Problems: Finding the Hidden Gems WithinSample

Day 3 - Problems are Pathways to Promotion

I jumped on the 710x bus to downtown Sydney. I was off to another job interview. Our family had just moved to Australia from Chicago and I was in desperate need of work.

As I was staring out of the bus window, I could see the Sydney Harbor Bridge approaching. It was beautiful. It was memorable. It was also on this ride that I felt something shift dramatically for me.

It sounded like an idea, but it was really a still, small voice that said, “why don’t you stop selling your resume, and start selling yourself.”

That was the last job interview I had.

From that moment forward, I started my own business and began looking for problems to solve. Every problem I solved for a business led me to another problem to solve.

Each problem became a promotion for me and my business. I started solving problems for small businesses which led me to solve problems for an Australian publicly traded company.

Problems are your pathway to promotion.

Joseph solved problems in Potiphar’s house which promoted him to manage his entire house.

Gideon obeyed God, rallied an army, and was promoted to lead the Israelites.

The disciples said “yes” to Jesus. They solved a problem for Jesus and were promoted to take the Word worldwide.

Do you remember any problems in your life which led to a promotion for you?

Think about this not just in the physical realm but also spiritually.

Can you see any current or future problems you can solve?

What would it take for you to get a promotion?

In your business, what would it take for you to generate more revenue, take on more clients or expand your influence?

Norman Vincent Peale says this about problems, “Every problem has in it the seeds of its own solution. If you don't have any problems, you don't get any seeds.”

Think about all the seeds you have from all the problems you have solved. You are a walking problem solver. Solutions are all over you.

As we close out this day, I’m reminded of a powerful scripture. Some of you may be thinking your problems are too big. Maybe you think it’s impossible.

I know I have felt like this many times. I’ve had some very dark times and in those times I make sure I do three critical things.

• Get as close to God as you can. Read, pray, and worship.
• Eliminate all negative thoughts. Think on those things which are good.
• Get around people who put courage in you. Get wise counsel.

Here is the scripture I want to leave with you.

But Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” - Matthew 19:26

I’m rooting for you.
I’m praying with you.

God bless.
Anthony Thompson