Eric Otchere I http://www.livingourbible.com I Saturday, 13th December 2025
Introduction: Why Solutions Create Leaders
One of the clearest pathways to leadership is not position, popularity, or noise—it is problem solving. Renowned American leadership expert Dr. John C. Maxwell captures it succinctly: the fastest way to gain leadership is to solve problems. Wherever problems persist and someone consistently brings solutions, leadership naturally gravitates toward that person.
Yet, society is crowded with people who talk endlessly about problems but do very little to resolve them. We have perfected commentary but neglected craftsmanship. Sadly, even among believers—those called to be “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13–14)—complaining often replaces creativity, and criticism substitutes for contribution.
History and Scripture are clear: those who shape the world are not those who describe problems best, but those who solve them bravely. This article explores problem solving as a divine attribute, a biblical pattern, and a practical skill that unlocks leadership and influence in every sphere of life.
God: The Original and Supreme Problem Solver
Problem solving did not begin with human innovation; it began with God Himself. Genesis opens not with perfection, but with chaos:
“The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.” — Genesis 1:2 (NKJV)
This verse is profound. Where disorder existed, God did not flee. Where darkness dominated, God did not complain. Instead, the Spirit of God hovered—a picture of presence, focus, and control. God positioned Himself over the problem, not away from it.
What followed was not panic, but strategy. God spoke, organized, separated, and structured until chaos gave way to order. This reveals a vital leadership truth: authority flows to those who are willing to confront complexity with clarity.
Scripture affirms this repeatedly:
“God is not the author of confusion but of peace.” — 1 Corinthians 14:33
If we are created in His image (Genesis 1:26), then the capacity to solve problems is not optional—it is embedded in our design.
A League of Problem Solvers in Scripture
The Bible is saturated with men and women who rose into prominence because they solved problems others feared or avoided.
- Abraham confronted the crisis of Lot’s capture and mobilized a strategic rescue mission, defeating stronger kings (Genesis 14).
- Joseph interpreted Pharaoh’s dream and designed an economic strategy that preserved Egypt—and the world—during famine (Genesis 41).
- David solved Israel’s national paralysis by confronting Goliath when seasoned soldiers trembled (1 Samuel 17).
- Solomon resolved one of the most complex legal disputes in Israel with divine wisdom, revealing the true mother (1 Kings 3:16–28).
- Daniel interpreted dreams and mysteries that baffled Babylon’s finest minds, securing influence across empires (Daniel 2).
These individuals were not merely gifted; they were solution-oriented. Their influence expanded in direct proportion to the size of the problems they were willing to tackle.
“Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before unknown men.” — Proverbs 22:29
Excellence in problem solving attracts visibility, trust, and authority.
Developing the Skill of Problem Solving
Early in my journey into personal and leadership development, I encountered the works of John C. Maxwell, particularly Developing the Leader Within You. One insight stayed with me: leadership grows fastest where problems are solved consistently.
How, then, do we cultivate this vital skill?
1. Don’t Be Afraid of Problems
Fear is the first enemy of leadership. Many retreat the moment complexity arises. But Scripture shows us a different posture. God did not recoil at chaos in Genesis 1:2; He engaged it.
“God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” — 2 Timothy 1:7
Problems are not signs of failure; they are invitations to growth and authority.
2. Face Problems Head-On
Courage is not the absence of difficulty; it is the willingness to confront it. When King Nebuchadnezzar ordered the execution of wise men because his dream was unresolved, Daniel did not hide. He requested time, sought God, and faced the issue directly (Daniel 2:14–19).
Avoidance delays solutions; confrontation accelerates them.
“Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9
3. Develop and Adjust Strategies
Problems demand more than prayer alone—they require wisdom-driven strategy. During a meeting with the General Overseer of ICGC, Pastor Mensa Otabil, he emphasized a timeless principle: every problem can be solved with the right strategy. If a method fails, reflection—not frustration—is required.
“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance.” — Proverbs 21:5
Problem solvers pause, analyze, adapt, and advance.
You Were Designed to Be a Problem Solver
One of Africa’s great challenges is not intelligence, but orientation. Our educational systems often train people to identify and discuss problems, not to resolve them. We raise analysts, critics, and commentators—but too few builders.
Yet Scripture insists that believers are equipped differently:
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.” — Ephesians 2:10
You have been wired with solution-capacity, especially within your area of calling. When you operate in your strength zone—your gifting, passion, and assignment—creativity flows, innovation emerges, and answers become clearer.
Influence grows where competence meets courage.
Conclusion: Problems Are Pathways, Not Punishments
Life will always present problems—not to defeat you, but to develop you. Every unresolved issue is an opportunity for leadership to emerge. As you engage challenges with faith, wisdom, and strategy, solutions will distinguish you.
Dr. Norman Vincent Peale once observed that where there is no problem, there is no life. Problems signal relevance. Solutions signal leadership.
Resolve today to stop lamenting problems and start solving them. The moment you do, influence will follow.
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