LITTLE ROCK — DEAR REV. GRAHAM: My hearing has gotten worse as I’ve grown older, and finally I’ve just stopped going to church because I can’t understand what’s being said (in spite of my expensive hearing aids). Is God displeased with me for dropping out of church?
- E.C.
DEAR E.C.: God knows all about your disability, and He doesn’t hold us accountable for things we aren’t able to do. God knows all our weaknesses, and He sympathizes with them. The Bible says, “He knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust” (Psalm 103:14).
I would encourage you not to lose contact with your church and its ministry. For example, is there a Bible study or women’s group in your church that you could still attend? Does your church sponsor other events (such as a concert) from time to time where your hearing might not be as big a problem? Are your church’s services broadcast over television or radio or through the Internet? You also might speak with your pastor or someone on your church’s board about installing a special sound system for the hearing impaired.
Don’t assume that because some of your church’s ministry is no longer accessible to you, you must cut off all contact with your church. You need the spiritual encouragement and emotional support it can give you - and your example of perseverance in the face of your disability could be an inspiration.
In addition, make this the best time of your life spiritually, by spending time each day praying and reading God’s Word. You may not be able to hear your preacher - but you can always listen to God’s Word!
Write to Billy Graham in care of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C. 28201 or visit the website at billygraham.org
Weekend, Pages 28 on 03/22/2012