Biblical Answer

The Nature of Goodness and Badness

The question of whether one can still be a good person if they are not well is a complex one. The Bible teaches that humans are prone to sin and that our natural self is enslaved to sin (Rom. 3:10-12). This means that even when we try to do good, we are often motivated by our own self-interest and desires. However, this does not mean that we are completely incapable of doing good. The Bible also teaches that we can choose to do good even when it is difficult or unpleasant (Matthew 5:46-48).

The Value of Good Actions

The value of good actions lies not in their ability to make us feel good or successful, but in their alignment with God's standards of righteousness. When we choose to do good, even when it is hard or unpleasant, we are demonstrating a commitment to living in accordance with God's will. This is what the Bible means when it says that we are to "obey from the heart" (Romans 6:17). Our good actions may not necessarily make us feel good or successful, but they are a reflection of our desire to please God and live in obedience to Him.

The Relationship Between Suffering and Goodness

The relationship between suffering and goodness is a complex one. The Bible teaches that suffering can be a catalyst for spiritual growth and maturity (Romans 5:3-5). However, it is also true that suffering can be debilitating and destructive. The key is to recognize that our worth and value as individuals are not determined by our successes or failures, but by our relationship with God. When we are struggling with physical or mental health issues, it is easy to feel like we are not good enough or that we have failed in some way. However, the Bible teaches that our worth and value come from God's love and acceptance of us, not from our own abilities or accomplishments. (1 John 3:1) Therefore, even when we are not well, we can still be good people by choosing to live in obedience to God and demonstrating a commitment to living according to His standards of righteousness.