Why does God allow babies to be born with painful, fatal diseases if He knits them in the womb (Psalm 139:13)? I. The Sovereign Hand in Human Formation Psalm 139:13 testifies, “For You formed my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother’s womb.” This verse underscores the profound truth that every human life is carefully fashioned. Yet, this biblical declaration raises the question of why some children suffer from seemingly inexplicable and devastating illnesses. The Scriptures present God as omniscient (Psalm 147:5), meaning that nothing escapes His notice. Even when disease or tragedy appears at odds with His purposeful creation, His sovereignty remains intact (Job 42:2). Although the question is weighty, and often accompanied by deep grief, biblical teaching consistently affirms God’s wisdom and plan—though not always clearly understood in the moment—are ultimately good and consistent with His character (Deuteronomy 32:4). II. The Reality of a Fallen World The presence of disease, suffering, and even death finds its basic explanation in the reality of a fallen creation. According to Romans 5:12, “just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death was passed on to all men.” Though God’s initial design was free from death and suffering (Genesis 1–2), humanity’s rebellion introduced a curse upon creation (Genesis 3:17–19). Scripture depicts this fallen condition as permeating the physical realm (Romans 8:20–22). Because of this brokenness, tragic outcomes can occur, including severe illnesses in newborns. This is not to suggest that a specific sin of the parents or child produced an individual sickness. Rather, the fallen state of humanity at large means that suffering, in various forms, can affect all. III. Scriptural Examples of Suffering From Birth The Gospel of John recounts a poignant story of a man who was born blind. Jesus’ disciples asked whether his blindness was due to personal or parental sin. John 9:3 records Jesus’ response: “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the works of God would be displayed in him.” In this case, an affliction existing from birth served as an opportunity for divine glory and compassion to be revealed. While this does not claim that every tragic illness is designed solely for a miraculous healing, it underscores that even congenital conditions can be woven into God’s redemptive purposes. IV. Purpose Within Pain Scripture often reminds believers that God uses suffering to accomplish larger purposes. Romans 8:28 assures: “And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose.” Although it can be difficult to see how a child’s terminal condition can serve a greater good, the biblical framework points to the reality that God is at work in ways that transcend short-term outcomes. Any such child also bears God’s image (Genesis 1:27). This status is not undermined by physical illness or disability. Moreover, Scripture proclaims that such children, with their frailty, often evoke compassion, love, and acts of service in those around them—attributes that mirror divine grace. V. Eternal Perspective Beyond This Life Biblical teaching emphasizes that our earthly existence is not the final chapter of life’s story (2 Corinthians 4:16–18). The brevity and pain of this age stand in stark contrast to the eternal perfection promised in Revelation 21:4: “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain…” Those struggling to reconcile a child’s painful or brief life are drawn to this eternal perspective. In the eternal realm, believers anticipate an end to sickness, and God’s justice and love become fully manifest. VI. Assurance of God’s Love and Compassion Repeatedly, Scripture testifies that God’s character is loving, compassionate, and just (Exodus 34:6; Psalm 86:15). Jesus’ earthly ministry showcased deep empathy for the suffering (Mark 1:41), affirming that sickness and even death cannot separate one from the love of God (Romans 8:38–39). From historical accounts of miraculous healings in both Scripture and modern testimonies, there is evidence that God at times intervenes supernaturally. Many documented cases—such as sudden remission of disease without scientific explanation—are attested by medical professionals and researchers. These occurrences do not negate the sorrow of unresolved suffering, but they illustrate God’s sovereign freedom to heal or to accomplish His will in more hidden ways. VII. Historical and Archaeological Corroboration of Hope 1. Reliability of Scriptural Promises: Diverse manuscript evidence—such as the Dead Sea Scrolls—affirms the consistency and fidelity of biblical texts, including passages that speak of God’s redemptive plan through suffering. These ancient documents demonstrate that even across centuries of copying, the core teachings on God’s holiness and sovereignty remain intact. 2. A Confirmed Historical Christ: Jesus’ ministry of healing, compassion, and resurrection is credibly attested by multiple sources—biblical manuscripts, early church writings, and extra-biblical references (e.g., Josephus, Tacitus). This historical footing strengthens confidence that a God who could heal the blind, cure the leper, and raise the dead is also sovereign over congenital diseases. 3. Observations Supporting Intentional Design: While sickness underscores the brokenness of the present world, the underlying complexity of human cells, organs, and processes often points to an intelligently designed framework. Researchers investigating irreducible complexities in genetics and biochemistry find patterns that defy a purely accidental origin, suggesting we truly are “knit together” in profound ways (Psalm 139:13). VIII. God’s Redemptive Plans and Human Response In the midst of heartache over babies born with fatal illnesses, Scripture invites each person to a posture of trust. Human explanation may fall short, but believers are urged to join their grief to the compassionate God who entered history through Christ. Though an infant’s suffering appears senseless within our limited view, there remains a compelling call for believers to serve, pray, and love these precious lives, reflecting divine compassion (Galatians 6:2). Church history and Christian ministries abound with testimonies of parents whose faith was deepened amid crisis, medical personnel who embraced grace after witnessing unexplainable healings or resilient families, and communities who discovered unconditional love through caring for these vulnerable children. IX. Conclusion Psalm 139:13 declares God’s intimate involvement in forming every child, yet the undeniable existence of congenital disease presses the faithful to wrestle with the tension between a loving Creator and a world marred by sin. Scripture points to the fallenness of creation and the hope of ultimate restoration as pivotal contexts for understanding this tension. God’s nature remains trustworthy, His purposes remain sovereign, and He redeems human suffering by weaving it into His larger plan, often unseen in full during our earthly journey. An eternal perspective, grounded in historical evidence for Christ’s life, death, and resurrection, offers solace. In the final consummation, every form of pain—including that which afflicts the most vulnerable—will be resolved in the presence of the One who wipes away every tear. |
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