I Must Not Quit (even when bad things happen to good people)

Adapting to Physical Limitations

I have always had my physical limitations at the front of my mind, as I would have to adapt and choose various unique ways to complete tasks that I would have otherwise automatically done previously. This has been a challenge at times.

However, within the past couple of years, I began doing some basic floor exercises a few times a week at home, focused on my core, legs, and arms. After receiving my driving license, I visited family friends for a week. While there, I accompanied a young lady to her gym about three times. These visits showed me that even though there are challenges, I can be confident, learn the machines, and use them for my benefit.

Treadmill with Therapists, approximately 2012

Building a Gym Routine

Upon returning home, I decided to research and choose a local gym to frequent. After doing so, I have tried to be dedicated and consistent. I try to attend the gym three or four days a week, alternating arms and legs on the various machines available. Exercises I especially enjoy include weighted squats on the Smith machine, back extensions, and sit-ups on the decline bench. These routines have helped me build strength and maintain physical progress. Despite the challenges, I’ve grown more confident and overcome limitations with every visit to the gym.

"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31)

Focusing on Positivity

Through everything I endure—all of the obstacles—I choose to find the good. What do I do instead of dwell on the negatives of all the things that I cannot do?

There was a brief time when I would think about all the things I used to do that I cannot do now, and it would make me sad. For example, I used to be able to multitask while driving—changing gears, talking on the phone, eating, etc. Now, I just drive and change the radio stations or adjust the temperature, usually when stopped.

But I flipped that around. I'm grateful for what I still can do, and I want to continue to move ahead and strive to go forward because where I am is not good enough. I can do better. I want to do more. I want to surprise those who think I cannot. Those thoughts help me set goals.

First Time Riding My Terra Trike, 2014

Revisiting Therapy

After receiving my driver's license again, I decided to revisit my therapists for a tune-up evaluation after 12 years of life therapy.

During these few visits, therapists showed me different ways to help practice and improve—standing with my eyes closed, standing with my feet closer together, and various toe-tapping exercises to help improve and get ready for standing on one leg longer. This will also aid in my more graceful movement and walking. They also shared activities to practice improving my fine motor skills, especially in my right hand.

"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Actual photos found during my reviews

Exploring My Heritage

Another exciting avenue I’ve been pursuing to utilize extra time is looking into my heritage to find my ancestry. It has been rewarding to figure out where you come from and who you are through historical documents and ethnicity estimates via DNA testing.

I’ve traced my ancestors back several generations, but there’s still much to be discovered. There are still a plethora of DNA matches to review and determine their validity.

Overcoming Obstacles

If we’re being honest, we all face obstacles. The way we choose to react in those moments is what separates us. There is ALWAYS a choice. We can choose to be positive and determined, or negative and bitter. Blaming God or someone else isn’t going to change the circumstances. Allowing negative attitudes to fester and grow only hurts you, no one else. Choose to be an overcomer.

Why Bad Things Happen to Good People

I don’t pretend to know God’s purposes. The Bible tells us His ways are higher than ours. I do know that we reap what we sow, whether positive or negative consequences. God loves us and will do what He must to get our attention.

I want to address a thought I’ve encountered over the years and what the Bible says regarding it: "Why do bad things happen to good people?"

Perhaps the most well-known scripture used to answer this question is Matthew 5:45: "That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust." This verse means that good and bad situations come upon both Christians and non-Christians. Since God doesn’t play favorites, all are equal in His sight. He doesn’t put on us anything we cannot bear. Our circumstances will MAKE us, not break us.

1. Job 1:21 – "And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD." Job experienced immense suffering despite his righteousness, teaching that trials can come to anyone. Our response should be to trust in God's plan.
2. John 16:33 – "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." Jesus reminds us that suffering is inevitable, but we can have peace knowing He has already overcome the world.
3. 1 Peter 4:12-13 – "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy." Trials are not strange or unexpected for believers; they are a part of sharing in Christ's suffering, leading to joy in the end.
4. Romans 8:28 – "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."
   Even in the midst of suffering, God has a purpose, and He will work all things for good for those who love Him.
5. James 1:2-3 – "My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience."
   Trials strengthen faith and produce patience, shaping us into who God wants us to be.
6. 2 Corinthians 4:17 – "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory." Our suffering is temporary compared to the eternal glory that awaits those who endure.

Jesus Healing the Man Born Blind

The story of Jesus healing a blind man is found in John 9:1-3. This passage explains when Jesus healed a man who was born blind. His disciples asked whether his blindness was caused by sin.

Jesus clarified that the man’s blindness was not a result of sin, but rather an opportunity for God’s power and works to be revealed through Him. This story emphasizes that not all suffering or disability is due to personal wrongdoing; sometimes it serves a higher purpose in God's plan.

Spiritual Encouragement

I’m also reminded that the Bible says in Matthew 18:8-9: "Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire." These Scriptures tell us that it’s better to enter heaven without something than to be whole and make hell your eternal home.

Choices

I said all of that to say this: People have asked me why I’m not angry, hateful, or bitter because of my circumstances. All I can respond with is this: It comes down to a choice. I can choose to have an attitude that drives me away from God or toward Him. Life is hard, and I imagine it’s even harder without God, but I don’t want to find out.

Comment what's your comfort.

Be encouraged. 🧡