I have been informed (and read) on numerous occasions that disabilities are seen as divine punishments from Heavenly Father for various reasons. I believe these hurtful and misguided beliefs are expressed by certain individuals out of ignorance. Such attitudes are not in accordance with the teachings of Jesus Christ. The Lord demonstrated compassion and love for all individuals, regardless of their abilities or circumstances. I also believe that the perpetuation of such harmful beliefs about disabilities being punishments from God is an indication of a misunderstanding of key Biblical teachings. Others have expressed to me that they too have been in the same situation and have asked what I feel they should do about their local church. I can only offer opinions. I think that if the group remains unwilling to reconsider their improper stance and provide the support people need, it may indeed be time to prayerfully consider moving on. The decision to leave a religious community is indeed significant, and seeking a place where your faith can be nurtured in an environment of love and acceptance is essential. It will have its ups and downs. Pray about it with a sincere heart. Remember that our relationship with Heavenly Father is personal, and there are communities that embrace disabled people and promote the real love that Jesus exemplified. In your search for a new community, seek those whose values are in accordance with the teachings of Jesus, recognising that God is not punishing people with disabilities.
When you don’t see progress, it’s time to move on with faith and trust in Heavenly Father, recognising that God’s timing doesn’t always align with our own understanding. In times of uncertainty, turn to the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels for guidance. Reflect on Matthew 6:33, where Jesus instructs us to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, trusting that all things will be added unto us. Embrace patience, perseverance, and prayer, seeking God’s wisdom and discernment as you walk along the path ahead. Remember the words of Proverbs 3:5-6, urging us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our understanding, acknowledging Him in all our ways, knowing that He will direct our path. Moving on in faith requires a reliance on God’s guidance, understanding that His plans for us are greater than our own, even when progress may seem elusive.
When those around you fail in their commission to serve one another, turn to the example set by Jesus Christ in the Gospels. Jesus, in John 13:14-15, demonstrated the essence of servant leadership when he washed the disciples’ feet, emphasising the importance of humility and selfless service. Reflect on Philippians 2:3-4, which encourages believers to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit but, in humility, consider others better than themselves, looking not only to their own interests but also to the interests of others. In moments of disappointment with the actions of others, seek guidance from Galatians 5:13, which calls believers to serve one another in love, recognising that true fulfillment comes through acts of kindness and selflessness. Responding with forgiveness and a Christ-like spirit in the face of others’ shortcomings aligns with the teachings of Jesus, who urged his followers to love and forgive as God has loved and forgiven us (Matthew 6:14-15).
When others feel that their mission has become wearisome, it is an opportunity to reflect on the teachings of Jesus and the enduring principles found in the Bible. In our own moments of weariness, we can turn to Matthew 11:28-30, where Jesus invites those who are burdened and weary to come to Him for rest. Encourage one another to find strength in God, relying on His grace to renew their spirits and provide the endurance needed to fulfill their mission. Consider Galatians 6:9, which encourages believers not to grow weary in doing good, for in due season, they will reap a harvest if they do not give up. Rather than hastily ending a mission, seek ways to rekindle the passion and purpose behind it, praying for guidance and strength. Remember the promise in Isaiah 40:31, where those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength and soar on wings like eagles. Encouraging perseverance in the face of weariness is in accordance with the Biblical principle of enduring with faith and trust in God’s sustaining power.
In facing the departure of others who have become weary of their duties, and having done what I can to support and encourage them, I turn to the teachings of Jesus for guidance. While it is disheartening when others choose to disappear, I am reminded to pray for more workers in the harvest to join the mission and to trust that God will provide the necessary support.
Moving on from a situation where others have chosen to leave their responsibilities can be challenging, but it is an opportunity to seek divine wisdom and discernment. It is a time to reflect on the purpose of the mission and to trust that God’s plan is unfolding, even if the journey involves unexpected changes.
