Life and Faith with Autism
As someone living with autism attending church can sometimes be challenging. Loud music, bright lights, and the busy atmosphere can easily overwhelm me. While I want to focus on the service and connect with others, it’s hard to block out the sensory overload. I often feel out of place, trying to manage everything happening around me while still wanting to be present.
Social situations at church are another challenge. Church is a place where people are expected to interact, chat with one another, and engage with the community. But for someone with autism, these interactions don’t always come naturally. I often feel unsure of how to start a conversation or what to say. I sometimes wonder if I’m saying the right thing or if I’m being misunderstood. Going to church alone can also be difficult. I rely on friends or family to help me feel more comfortable in such a social setting. Without them, it’s easy to feel isolated.
On top of that, I find myself approaching church a bit like Spock from Star Trek. I tend to analyze everything logically and break down the sermons in a very structured way. While others may feel the emotional depth of a sermon, I can’t help but focus on the details, the structure, and the logic behind the message. I often find myself thinking, “How does this make sense?” or “What’s the purpose of this teaching?” It’s not that I don’t appreciate the spiritual aspects of church; it’s just that I naturally approach it with a more analytical mindset.
But despite these challenges, I’ve found strength in my faith. The Bible may not specifically mention the word “autism,” but it speaks volumes about God’s love, purpose, and plan for all people. As someone living with autism, I’ve come to realize that my experiences, though different from others, are meaningful and valuable in God’s eyes.
His Word reminds us that every person—no matter how they think, feel, or experience the world—has infinite worth and is an essential part of his grand design.
We Are Created in God’s Image
In Genesis 1:27, we are told, “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”
This truth applies to everyone, including people with autism. It means that people like me—who may think, communicate, or interact with the world in unique ways—are intentionally made in God’s image. We are not mistakes, and we aren’t overlooked in God’s plan. Autism isn’t a flaw in his design; it’s part of how he has created us to reflect his image in a way that is distinctly our own.
I know for me, navigating the world with autism can sometimes feel isolating. Social situations might be challenging, and sensory overload can be overwhelming. But the Bible assures me that even in these challenges, I am still fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). My experiences—though they might seem different—are part of God’s perfect plan. There are no mistakes in his design, and that includes the way our minds and bodies work.
God’s Work Through People with Disabilities
Living with autism can sometimes feel isolating. Our experiences may be different, whether it’s sensitivity to certain sounds or difficulty understanding social cues. But the Bible reassures us that these differences don’t make us less than others. In Psalm 139:14, we are reminded:
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
This verse reminds me that I am intentionally created by God, and my unique experiences are part of his perfect plan.
Throughout Scripture, God uses people with disabilities or differences to fulfill his purpose. Our struggles and differences, whether due to autism or another condition, don’t limit us in God’s eyes. Instead, they open up opportunities for him to work through us in powerful ways. When we embrace our challenges, we allow God’s strength to shine through us.
Take a look at some of the people in the Bible who experienced challenges but were still used powerfully by God:
- Jacob walked with a limp after his encounter with God (Genesis 32:32). His limp wasn’t a weakness—it was a symbol of God’s presence in his life and the covenant between God and his people.
- Samson was blind, yet even in his blindness, he played a pivotal role in God’s plan to deliver Israel (Judges 16:21). His sightlessness didn’t stop God from using him to fulfill his purpose.
- Zechariah became temporarily mute after questioning God’s promise (Luke 1:20). His silence helped prepare the way for the birth of John the Baptist, who would ultimately pave the way for Jesus.
- Paul dealt with a “thorn in the flesh” (2 Corinthians 12:7-9). While we don’t know exactly what his affliction was, we see that God used Paul’s weakness as an opportunity to show his power.
These stories remind us that our differences don’t disqualify us from being part of God’s redemptive plan. In fact, God can use our unique experiences to bring about his purposes in ways that we may not expect. Like those in Scripture, our weaknesses and differences can be platforms for God’s grace and strength to be revealed.
When I feel out of place or overwhelmed by the challenges of autism, I remember that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. My life has meaning and purpose in God’s eyes, and he can use my experiences to bring about his greater plan.
Every Member of the Body of Christ is Essential
1 Corinthians 12:22 reminds us that, “…those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable.”
This verse is a beautiful reminder that every single member of the Body of Christ—whether they are neurotypical or neurodivergent—has an important role to play in God’s kingdom. The Church is not complete without those who think, feel, or experience the world differently. We all bring something special to the table.
This Autism Acceptance Month, we celebrate the unique design and purpose God has for every person.
If you have autism, know this: You are fearfully and wonderfully made, just as you are. You are not a mistake, and your life has great meaning and purpose. You are an essential part of the body of Christ, and your differences are not only accepted but celebrated by God. Your life reflects the image of God, and your story is part of his greater plan.
Encouragement for Thriving with Autism
Ron Sandison shares his story of growing up on the autism spectrum and offers encouragement for those navigating life with autism. Leaning on Jesus, and with the support of his family, Ron has built a fulfilling and purposeful life.
