Many parents have been taught that God gave their child autism for His glory.
Many parents have been taught that God gave their child autism for His glory.
That He intentionally placed it on their child so He could use it for a greater purpose.
But when we examine the life and ministry of Jesus, we do not see Him placing sickness, disease, or affliction on people.
We see Him healing them.
He revealed the works of God by restoring what was broken.
As you may have noticed, my son is in the background of this carousel. He’s holding a copy of Live Healed by Gloria Copeland.
Why?
Because even the children know what Jesus Christ paid for before they fully speak or understand it.
In our home, we refuse to build our theology around man’s report.
We build it around Jesus.
At the end of the day, every parent has a choice.
Will we believe what we’ve been taught by people?
Or will we believe what God revealed through His Son?
We choose to believe Him.
Many people often hear that autism is a divine gift meant for God's glory, yet examining biblical teachings and the life of Jesus reveals a different narrative. Jesus healed those afflicted, restoring what was broken instead of afflicting them with disability or disease. This distinction is crucial for parents seeking to reconcile faith with autism. In my own journey, embracing this perspective meant shifting away from harmful theological ideas that imply God purposely gives autism. Instead, we recognize that autism, like other challenges, exists within a fallen world impacted by sin and brokenness, as described biblically through Adam's fall. Jesus came to restore and heal, not to inflict afflictions. An important scriptural example is found in John 9, where Jesus heals a man born blind—neither the man nor his parents sinned to bring about his condition. This teaches us that disabilities or illnesses are not punishments but opportunities for God's works to be shown through healing and compassion. For many families like mine, faith becomes a foundation to stand on Jesus’ promises of healing and restoration. We choose to believe in Jesus' power rather than settle for definitions or expectations handed down by societal or even some religious teachings. This belief fosters hope, perseverance, and an active faith response, including prayer and seeking healing where possible. Additionally, resources such as "Live Healed" by Gloria Copeland have inspired us, emphasizing divine healing through Christ’s sacrifice. It's encouraging to see even children grasp the hope inherent in God's promises long before they fully understand the theological depth. Navigating autism with faith is a deeply personal journey involving choices about what to believe. Parents can find strength in building their theology around Jesus' example and words rather than man's reports or misconceptions. This approach offers not only spiritual solace but actively supports embracing and advocating for the healing and well-being of their children. In conclusion, faith in Jesus’ healing power and the restoration of brokenness can be a powerful source of encouragement for families. It invites parents to choose belief based on scripture and personal experience rather than fear or misapplied doctrines, creating a hopeful environment for children with autism to flourish spiritually and emotionally.
