When I think about what happens when someone can't afford treatment, I'm reminded of a situation in our church where a family was struggling with a loved one's addiction. They were unable to afford the treatment they needed, and it led to a downward spiral of suffering. The Bible talks about suffering being a result of calamity, chastisement, or punishment. In this case, the family's inability to afford treatment was a calamity that led to further suffering.
As a pastor, I've seen firsthand the consequences of refusing to seek help when someone can't afford treatment. It can lead to feelings of hopelessness, suicidal thinking, and self-loathing. In the Bible, David says, "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases" (Psalm 103:2-3). When we pray for healing and God heals, we should acknowledge and celebrate that healing. Refusing compensation or treatment can be a sign of faith, but it's not always the right decision.
In the case of the family struggling with addiction, refusing to seek help because of financial constraints was not the right decision. The consequences of not seeking help can be severe, including cutting off funds, locking doors, or even calling the police. As a family, we need to be willing to seek help and support, even if it means seeking outside assistance. In the Bible, it says, "For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them" (Matthew 18:20). When we come together as a community, we can find support and healing, even in the midst of suffering.