God’s love is for everyone, and the Bible reminds us of the unique value of each person. Disabilities are not a barrier to God’s love. Today, we’ll explore how Scripture teaches us to view and value all individuals.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Justification
What Does The Bible Say About Those Born With Disabilities
Exodus 4:11
So the LORD said to him, “Who has made man’s mouth? Or who makes the mute, the deaf, the seeing, or the blind? Have not I, the LORD?”
This verse reminds us that God is the creator and has a purpose for every person, regardless of their disabilities. It emphasizes that disabilities are not a result of a mistake or accident, but a part of God’s plan.
It is important for us to treat individuals with disabilities with love, respect, and acceptance, recognizing that they too are created in the image of God and have great worth in His eyes.
Psalm 139:13-14
For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.
This passage assures us that God intricately formed every part of our being, including those with disabilities. It proclaims that each person, with their unique abilities and struggles, is a beautiful creation of God.
As we interact with individuals with disabilities, we should recognize and celebrate their full humanity, acknowledging the value and purpose they possess just like anyone else.
John 9:2-3
And his disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him.”
This verse challenges the common belief that disabilities are a punishment for sin. Jesus uses the opportunity to teach that disabilities can serve a greater purpose – to showcase God’s power and bring glory to His name.
When encountering individuals with disabilities, we should avoid judgment or blame, and instead, seek to understand and support them, recognizing that God can work through their lives in miraculous ways.
Exodus 23:22
“But if you carefully obey his voice and do all that I say, then I will be an enemy to your enemies and an adversary to your adversaries.”
This verse reassures us that when we obey and trust in God, He becomes our protector and advocate. It implies that He fights on behalf of those who may be vulnerable or facing challenges, including individuals with disabilities.
As followers of Christ, we are called to stand up for the rights and well-being of those with disabilities, advocating for inclusivity and justice in society, and recognizing that they deserve the same support and opportunities as anyone else.
Psalm 41:1
“Blessed is the one who considers the poor! In the day of trouble the LORD delivers him;”
This verse emphasizes the value of showing compassion and care for those who are in need, including individuals with disabilities. It assures us of God’s deliverance and blessings when we extend a helping hand to those less fortunate.
As Christians, we are called to be a source of support, encouragement, and practical assistance to individuals with disabilities, recognizing that our actions can reflect the heart of Christ and bring about positive change in their lives.
Matthew 25:35-36
“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.”
This passage highlights the importance of showing love and care to those in vulnerable positions, including individuals with disabilities. It challenges us to actively reach out and meet their practical needs.
As followers of Jesus, we should seek ways to support and assist individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to basic necessities, companionship, and a sense of belonging within the community.
Proverbs 14:21
“Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.”
This verse condemns any form of discrimination or mistreatment towards others, including individuals with disabilities. It encourages us to show kindness and generosity to those who may be marginalized.
Instead of despising or devaluing those with disabilities, we should embrace a mindset of love, acceptance, and inclusion, treating them with dignity and respect as equal members of society.
Philippians 2:3-4
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others.”
This passage challenges us to have a humble and selfless attitude towards others, including individuals with disabilities. It calls us to prioritize their well-being and take into account their unique needs and interests.
As we interact with individuals with disabilities, we should seek to understand their perspective, offer our support, and advocate for their rights and inclusion, reflecting the servant-hearted nature of Christ.
Job 42:10
“And the LORD restored the fortunes of Job, when he had prayed for his friends. And the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before.”
This verse depicts the restoration and blessing that can come as a result of praying for others, including those with disabilities. It reminds us of the power and importance of interceding on behalf of those in need.
We should make it a priority to lift up individuals with disabilities in prayer, seeking God’s healing, provision, and guidance for their lives, trusting that He can bring about transformation and renewed hope.
Galatians 3:28
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
This verse emphasizes the unity and equality that is found in Christ Jesus. It teaches us that regardless of our differences, such as disabilities, we are all equal and valuable members of the body of Christ.
As followers of Jesus, we should strive to create inclusive communities that recognize and celebrate the diverse abilities and contributions of each individual, fostering an environment of acceptance and love.
Leviticus 19:14
“You shall not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block before the blind, but you shall fear your God: I am the LORD.”
This verse commands us to treat individuals with disabilities with respect and love. It forbids any form of discrimination, mockery, or exploitation.
Instead of being a stumbling block for those with disabilities, we should actively seek to remove barriers and promote accessibility, ensuring equal opportunities for participation and full engagement in society.
Romans 12:15
“Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.”
This verse encourages believers to empathize with the joys and sorrows of others. It challenges us to show compassion towards individuals with disabilities, celebrating their achievements and sharing in their struggles.
We should make an effort to acknowledge and validate the experiences and emotions of those with disabilities, standing alongside them with empathy and offering our support and encouragement.
Isaiah 35:5-6
“Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; then shall the lame man leap like a deer, and the tongue of the mute sing for joy.”
This passage prophesies the miraculous healing and restoration that God can bring to individuals with disabilities. It offers hope and reassurance that God is able to work in their lives in extraordinary ways.
We should hold onto this promise and continue to pray for healing and breakthroughs for individuals with disabilities, trusting in God’s perfect timing and purpose.
1 Corinthians 12:22
“On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable,”
This verse highlights the importance and value of every individual in the body of Christ, including those with disabilities. It affirms that even the seemingly weaker members have a crucial role to play and contribute significantly to the overall functioning of the church.
As a church community, we should embrace the unique gifts and perspectives that individuals with disabilities bring, recognizing their indispensable role in helping us grow into a more compassionate, understanding, and inclusive body.
Luke 14:13-14
“But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.”
This verse teaches the importance of extending hospitality and care towards those who may not be able to reciprocate. It encourages us to show love and kindness to individuals with disabilities, recognizing the eternal reward that awaits us.
As followers of Jesus, we should actively seek out opportunities to include individuals with disabilities, inviting them into our homes, churches, and social gatherings, demonstrating God’s love through our actions.
Isaiah 40:29
“He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength.”
This verse assures us that God provides strength and empowerment to those who are weak and weary, including individuals with disabilities. It reminds us that they can find comfort and renewal in God’s presence.
We should encourage individuals with disabilities, reminding them of their inherent worth and reminding them that their source of strength comes from the Lord. We should also be ready to offer assistance and support whenever needed.
2 Corinthians 12:9
“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
This verse teaches that God’s strength is made perfect in our weaknesses. It affirms that individuals with disabilities have a unique opportunity to showcase God’s power through their lives, relying on His grace and experiencing His strength in their limitations.
Through their perseverance and faith, individuals with disabilities can serve as powerful examples of God’s sustaining power and can inspire others to trust in Him amidst their own struggles and challenges.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
This well-known verse reminds us that God has a purpose and plan for every individual’s life, including those with disabilities. It assures us that God’s plans are good and aim for our well-being, offering a future filled with hope.
We should encourage individuals with disabilities, helping them discover their God-given gifts and talents, and empowering them to pursue their dreams, knowing that God has a specific plan for their lives.
James 2:5
“Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him?”
This verse challenges our worldly perspective of success and worth. It reminds us that those who are considered marginalized, including individuals with disabilities, can exhibit a deep faith and become heirs of God’s kingdom.
We should learn from individuals with disabilities, recognizing the richness of their faith and the valuable lessons they can teach us about trust, perseverance, and dependence on God.
Psalm 34:17-18
“When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”
This verse assures us that God is attentive to the cries of those in need, including individuals with disabilities. It promises His presence and deliverance, offering comfort and hope to those who are brokenhearted.
As followers of Christ, we should embody His love and compassion, standing alongside individuals with disabilities, extending a helping hand, and praying for their needs to be met, knowing that God hears and responds to their cries.
Mark 10:14
“But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.”
This verse highlights Jesus’ care and love for children and, by extension, individuals with disabilities. It challenges us to remove any barriers that hinder their access to Jesus, His teachings, and the blessings of His kingdom.
We should actively create inclusive environments and opportunities for individuals with disabilities to encounter Jesus, fostering their spiritual growth, and recognizing the vital role they play within the kingdom of God.