Religion and spirituality can be a great source of comfort for people who are going through a hard time or dealing with chronic health issues. They can also be incredibly damaging and harmful if presented in the wrong way.
Sometimes well-meaning people say really stupid things. Over the years, I’ve heard such sentiments as, “God never gives you more than you can handle” and, “This is happening for a reason.” I couldn’t disagree more. Sometimes there is no reason and most importantly, nothing evil or harmful ever comes from God. If your God makes you ill, find a new God.
We sometimes need to correct our mental image of God when we are facing illness. Here are some important points to keep in mind. They have helped me cope and still maintain my spirituality.
God did not make you sick. No matter what your religious affiliation, any God that gives you an illness because he/she/it loves you is the equivalent to the abused partner being told they are being beaten by their spouse because they are loved. If that’s the case, then that’s not love. Toss this image out.
For me, God does not will anyone’s suffering and God does not give people diseases or disorders. I am not a theologian or religious leader, but as far as I can tell, we live in a universe that is free. People are free and so are viruses, bacteria, and the cells in our body– sometimes they misbehave.
God does not blame you for your illness. Since God did not make you sick; God does not blame you for your illness. We get down on ourselves wishing we could do more or be more, ect. The people in our lives might think we should be trying harder or taking a certain course of action that doesn’t work for us. I think God has more compassion and acceptance than humans do.
Prayer can be helpful. Sometimes prayer can cure illness instantaneously, but more than likely, what prayer does is open your mind to guidance. You are lead to helpful doctors or support groups. You come across insightful books and people. You find the inner strength to get through the day when you thought you couldn’t. You find a medication that helps you a little. God is always on the side of good and healing, even if that healing takes place over long periods of time.
Healing is not always going back to the way it was before. Healing does not always mean that everything will be erased and perfect as it was before. Healing can take on many forms. Be open to the different ways it can come.
A toxic religious community will only make you worse. You may have a hard time breaking with tradition, but if you continue to stay in a church or religious community that is very toxic, you will only get worse — mentally and spiritually. Find a place of worship or spiritual group that is kind, loving and accepting of you and your disability full stop. No hidden agenda.
Our universe is a mystery. Suffering is a mystery. I don’t have all the answers, but I do know that if God exists, it’s in the form of love, hope, healing and peace. Anything less is not a god worthy of worship.
Stephen Fratello 
These are such comforting words. Thank you for sharing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m glad that you found comfort in these words. Thank you for letting me know as it brings me some peace. Thank you.
LikeLike
This is EXACTLY what I needed to hear in my life at this moment. I am 33 and have Fibromyalgia – a chronic nerve pain condition with many other debilitating aspects (chronic fatigue, weakness, migraines, etc.) On Monday my leg gave out as I was walking across a parking lot and I ended up needing stitches in my face. These types of episodes have been happening more and more often and I am struggling with this invisible disease and feeling that people don’t understand how real it is. I fear that they think I am making excuses when I say I need to rest. I have been feeling very hopeless, wondering how I am going to continue like this for the rest of my life; wondering why God would do this to me. Thank you so much for helping me remember that God is always on my side.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m so glad this was able to help you in some way. I know how tough it can be some days. Sending lots of good thoughts and prayers your way for comfort, healing and peace.
LikeLike
I’m sorry to hear about your struggle. It’s so hard to remember that God is on our side. Especially being young and wanting to do things that everybody else seems to be able to do. It’s even harder to be misunderstood. Just know that you’re not alone. I understand. And somehow God is with us and breaking through the pain and sadness in the words of others or in good doctors or an understanding ear. Sending you healing prayers and thoughts.
LikeLike
Thank you for your kind words!
LikeLiked by 1 person
🙂
LikeLike
Thanks for this article, Stephen! I need to build up more resolve to remove myself from situations in church that are making me feel worse and better.
LikeLike
It’s definitely a process. We keep learning as time goes on. 🙂
LikeLike