Biblical Answer

The Paralyzing Question of "Why"

The question of "why" is a common one when we face difficulties or hardships, such as paralysis. Why did I have to be the one to get paralyzed? This question reflects a deep sense of pain and frustration, as if we are searching for a reason or explanation for our suffering. In the Bible, we see examples of people asking God "why" in the midst of their struggles. For instance, in Psalm 38, David cries out to God, "Why, Lord, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?" (Psalm 38:21). David's question is not just a intellectual inquiry, but a heartfelt expression of his pain and longing for God's presence.

The Sovereignty of God

As Christians, we must acknowledge that God is sovereign over all creation, including the lives of his people. This means that God is not surprised by our struggles or hardships, including paralysis. In fact, God is working all things together for our good, even when we cannot see it (Romans 8:28). This does not mean that God causes our suffering, but rather that He is able to bring good out of it. In the story of Job, we see a man who suffers greatly, including the loss of his children and his health. Yet, in the midst of his suffering, Job says, "The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised" (Job 1:21). Job's response is not a denial of his pain, but a recognition of God's sovereignty over all things.

Trust and Faith

So, why did I have to be the one to get paralyzed? The answer is not always easy to find, and sometimes it may not be given to us in this life. However, as Christians, we are called to trust and have faith in God, even when we do not understand. This is not a passive trust, but an active one, where we choose to believe God's promises and trust in His goodness, even when we are in the midst of suffering. In 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, Paul writes, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Paul's experience of suffering, including a "thorn in the flesh," was not something he asked for, but something he learned to trust God with. May we also learn to trust God in the midst of our struggles, and find peace and comfort in His presence.