BGEA: How can I get over my discouragement and bitterness because of a physical disability?

How can I get over my discouragement and bitterness because of a physical disability?

Physical disabilities can easily lead to discouragement and bitterness. There are certainly no easy answers to such problems. However, you can be sure that God desires to bring about in you the greatest good, including the cultivation of love, patience, and faith (Romans 8:28).

Faith in God will give you courage, hope, and the ability to accept your circumstances with a greater peace of mind than you have ever experienced before. The Bible says, "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you" (1 Peter 5:7). Helen Keller, who was both blind and deaf from an early age, is a classic example of handling life's handicaps. She said, "I thank God for my handicaps, for through them I have found myself, my work and my God." Don’t let your disability limit your usefulness and service to people and God. The Bible teaches that physical affliction can work for our strengthening and good; read 2 Corinthians 4:16-18.

Afflictions can lead some to see their need to accept Christ as Savior by faith, or draw them into a closer walk with Him. The Bible says, "A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all" (Psalm 34:19). Some of God's most faithful followers have suffered great pain and limitations, but they learned to use their affliction constructively. For further help we encourage you to contact JAF Ministries (Joni and Friends) P.O. Box 3333, Agoura Hills, California 91376, telephone (818) 707-5664 or (800) 523-5777. This is a very helpful Christian ministry to people with disabilities.

5 Comments

Johnny says 7.28.2011, 02:28 a.m.

I was born Forrest Gump, but with a brain. Somehow I survived childhood and was accepted into the Army at 17. I was discharged in 1969 left to fend for myself, a Friendly Fire POW with nowhere to turn. I am disabled veteran still a prisoner of war. Yet I praise God! I have a powerful testimony sermon.

Marla says 1.24.2011, 12:34 a.m.

I have had MS for 28 years. God gives me His limitless grace every day to face all the challenges living in a wheelchair brings to me. God has seen fit to use this disease to teach me patience and teach others that there is a PERSON in that chair with a mind and spirit.

Tamara says 1.24.2011, 10:35 a.m.

I have also often thought death would be a welcome relief from the pain and rejection of this world. Some medications help a bit but reading in the Bible; listening to Christian songs and paying attention to the words; going online / TV / radio for sermons: many times it seems like a direct message from God. Note: Jacob thought Joseph was dead, read Genesis 37 on.

Keep your faith John. says 1.24.2011, 10:14 a.m.

John, I am dealing with mental illness in my family too. My wife has OCD and suffers from severe anxiety and depression. It is a struggle everyday. I have wondered at times "Where are you God?" But, I remind myself that without suffering how would we know to trust in him and have faith in him?" Cast your cares upon the Lord. Something tells me it is not too late for you to create a relationship with your daughters. I was adopted at birth in 1962. That was a long time ago, but I would like to get to know my birth mother and father. I would encourage you to pray about it and if you feel God's will, then contact them and let them know that you now realize that your struggles with mental illness cost you the years that you missed with them. With the technology of the internet, you can find them.

john says 1.23.2011, 12:10 a.m.

I have been battling bipolar depression since I was very small. This horrible illness has put me into tremendous financial debt (OVER $200,000) AND IT cost me my twin daughters who are now 33 years old. The last time I hugged them and told them that I loved them was Christmas 1978 when they were 14 months old. They grew up with another man as their father and daddy. I do not even know where the oldest one is. I have lost total confidence that God wants them back in my life due to my illness. I have looked at the gates of suicide many many times.