Lately, I’ve found myself surrounded by problems I just can’t fix. As a lifelong problem solver—a fixer by nature—this has been tough for me. I want to step in and help relieve suffering, resolve issues, and make everything right. But sometimes, even with all the will in the world, we find ourselves powerless to change circumstances for those we care about.
If you’re in that spot, too, feeling the weight of needs you can’t meet or troubles you can’t solve, I hope you’ll find some encouragement here.
It’s agonizing to watch people we love struggle. Whether it’s a friend facing health challenges or a community member dealing with an unfair situation, our hearts want nothing more than to make it better. As someone who values independence and uses my abilities to help others, accepting that I can’t always fix things has stretched me in difficult yet meaningful ways.
For example, my role as a city commissioner brings me face-to-face with issues like affordable housing—problems that, despite my years of experience in the field and best efforts, are sometimes beyond my power to resolve. I recently spoke with a friend whose landlord refuses to make repairs and tells her to move if she complains. Another friend is dealing with a frightening illness and the uncertainty of potential surgery. The list goes on. The reality is that I—and we—can’t solve it all.
This truth was driven home recently through my seven-year-old grandson’s scary experience. He tried a new route to a friend’s house, got lost, and was terrified. Thankfully, a kind stranger—his “angel in a red jeep”—noticed him standing on a street corner crying and helped him find his way home.
That incident got me thinking: How often are we like that little boy, lost and overwhelmed? Or perhaps, how often does God nudge us to be the person who notices and reaches out?
God’s prompts don’t always come as lightning bolts. Sometimes, it’s a simple, persistent idea—a thought to check in on someone, offer a meal, or stop by for a visit. People rarely ask for help; pride, fear, or feeling overwhelmed keep them silent. That’s why, as Christ-followers, we need the courage to respond gently but boldly to those nudges, trusting that loving action is always needed.
Sometimes, we’re the lost ones. Other times, we get to be the “angel in the red jeep” for someone else.
And then there are times when prayer feels too small in the face of hardship. In truth, it’s our strongest tool. Romans 8:26-27 tells us the Holy Spirit prays for us with groans too deep for words, and God understands exactly what we need—even when we can’t express it.
When I asked my grandson if he prayed during his ordeal, he said, “Just a little.” I believe the Holy Spirit prayed for him in those moments of fear. Whether our burden is heavy or our words fail us, scripture reminds us: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” (Psalm 34:18) and “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
Maybe you’re feeling helpless watching someone you love struggle. It’s OK not to have the right words—or any words at all. Sometimes, showing up, listening, or simply praying is the best thing you can do.
Let go of the pressure to fix everything. Small acts of faithfulness—a phone call, a prayer, a friendly text—are often more important than grand solutions. Obey God’s gentle nudges, even when they don’t make sense. We may not have all the answers, but we know the One who does.
This season has been a powerful reminder for me that I don’t have to fix everything. My job is to trust God, to hand my worries and others’ burdens over to Him. Sometimes, it takes more courage to stand back and let God work in His timing than to rush in and try to fix things ourselves.
If you’re struggling, know that God is with you. He promises to bring good, even in situations that feel hopeless. I pray for wisdom, discernment, and courage—for you and me—to respond to God’s nudges and rest in His faithfulness.
If this message resonates with you or you know someone who is overwhelmed by situations they can’t fix, please share this post. Sometimes, a little encouragement is just what we need to find the courage to let go and trust God. Feel free to reach out to me at vona@vonajohnson.com if I can help.
Remember to embrace your faith and Live Your More even when life doesn’t look like you think it should.
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