What purpose does the Lord have for me now that I can no longer walk?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: My life has taken a terrible turn after surviving a horrific accident leaving me impaired. I grew up in church and was active in my youth group. Now that I am unable to walk and drive a car, my social life has been snatched away. I know that the Lord has a purpose in this. How can I find it? – B.Y.
A: A happy life is not one filled only with sunshine, but one that uses both light and shadow to produce beauty. All the masterpieces of art contain both light and shadow. The greatest musicians as a rule are those who know how to bring song out of sadness. Fanny Crosby, her spirit aglow with faith in Christ many years ago, saw more with her sightless eyes than most do with normal vision. She has given us some of the great songs of the church that cheer our hearts and lives.
Joni Eareckson Tada, a bright-eyed and talented woman, has lifted spirits of children and adults through sharing her joy in the midst of suffering.
The self-sacrifice of God’s people through the centuries has contributed immeasurably to our culture, ethics, and faith. Down deep, we know that there are still things worthy of doing. An existence void of faith is a fate worse than death.
When we study God’s Word and spend time in prayer before Him, His Spirit teaches us so much. Pray because Christ died to give us access to the Father in Heaven. Pray because God is worthy of praise. Pray because others need our prayers. The “God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble” (2 Corinthians 1:3–4, NKJV).
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2024 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2024 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
