Biblical Answer

The question of whether it is selfish to want to be healed when others have it worse is a complex one that requires a thoughtful and compassionate response. On the one hand, it is natural to desire healing and relief from suffering, and God is a God of love and compassion who desires to bring healing and restoration to his people. Jesus himself said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). However, we must also recognize that suffering can be a catalyst for spiritual growth and maturity, and that God may allow us to suffer in order to draw us closer to himself.

On the other hand, it is possible for our desire for healing to be motivated by a desire for self-centered gain, rather than a desire to bring glory to God. When we pray for healing, we must pray with a heart that is surrendered to God's will, rather than our own desires. We must pray not only for healing, but also for God's glory to be revealed in the situation, whether that means healing or not. As the apostle Paul wrote, "We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope" (Romans 5:3-4). By praying for God's glory, rather than just our own healing, we can begin to see our suffering as an opportunity for spiritual growth, rather than just a source of frustration and pain.

Ultimately, the question of whether it is selfish to want to be healed when others have it worse is not a simple one to answer. Rather, it requires a nuanced and compassionate response that takes into account the complexities of human experience and the sovereignty of God. By praying for God's glory, rather than just our own healing, we can begin to see our suffering as an opportunity for spiritual growth, and trust that God is working all things together for our good, even when we don't understand what that means. As the psalmist wrote, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28). By trusting in God's goodness and sovereignty, we can find peace and hope, even in the midst of suffering.