Biblical Answer

Is it selfish to want to be healed when others have it worse?

The Nature of Selfishness and Healing

Selfishness is often associated with wanting something for oneself without consideration for others. However, when it comes to healing, the situation is more complex. We must consider the biblical perspective on healing and the nature of God's sovereignty. The Bible teaches that God is sovereign over all creation, including healing. Jesus said, "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you" (John 15:7). This verse suggests that God is willing to heal those who are in a right relationship with Him.

The Importance of Perspective

When we want to be healed, we must consider our perspective on suffering. Some people believe that suffering is a result of bad theology or a lack of faith. However, this perspective is not supported by the Bible. The Bible teaches that suffering can be a result of sin, but it can also be a result of God's sovereignty. Jesus did not heal everyone who came to Him, but He still showed compassion and love to those who were suffering. We must not judge others who are suffering as being selfish or ungrateful. Instead, we should pray for God to be glorified in the situation, whether He chooses to heal or not.

The Focus on God's Glory

Ultimately, our focus should be on God's glory, not on our own healing. We should pray for God to be glorified in the situation, whether He chooses to heal or not. This perspective is in line with the biblical teaching that God is sovereign over all creation, including healing. We must not try to manipulate God into healing us by using guilt or shame. Instead, we should approach God with a humble and grateful heart, recognizing that He is sovereign and that His ways are higher than our ways. By focusing on God's glory, we can overcome the temptation to be selfish in our desire for healing. We can trust that God will do what is best for us, even if it means not healing us in this life.