Dr. Rhonda Richmond
Since 2020, there’s been a noticeable push toward creating more diverse environments. Whether we’re talking about workplaces, schools, or even our churches, diversity seems to be the buzzword. But diversity isn’t just about bringing together people from different ethnic or cultural backgrounds. True diversity means creating spaces where people of all cultures, backgrounds, and ways of thinking can come together and thrive.
One area we often overlook in these conversations is the inclusion of people with invisible disabilities—those who live with autism, learning disabilities, ADHD, or other challenges that aren’t immediately noticeable to the eye. This exclusion isn’t always intentional, but it happens because people with invisible disabilities often don’t behave in the ways that are considered “socially acceptable.”
In many Christian spaces, being socially accepted can look a lot like:
- Sharing personal information with strangers.
- Praying or reading scripture out loud in front of others.
- Smiling constantly.
- Hugging everyone.
- Being open to others praying over you for healing.
- Enduring hurtful or derogatory jokes, often excused as “just kidding.”
- Being talked over or treated as if your opinions are less valuable.
If someone gets quiet, needs personal space, or prefers to focus on work, school, or a hobby, they can be seen as distant or “off-mission.” When neurodivergent individuals reveal their challenges, they’re often misunderstood or ostracized. It’s easy for others to assume that a strong relationship with God will make someone more extroverted and socially involved. What’s surprising is that these behaviors often come from a place of good intentions. People may genuinely want to help or believe they’re encouraging deeper involvement, but they can inadvertently make others feel excluded.
Even more troubling, it’s often the person with the disability who is expected to “rise above” and extend grace, as though they must accept mistreatment as a demonstration of their ability to forgive.
But let’s pause and consider what the Bible says about disabilities. God doesn’t view disabilities the way many of us do. The Bible repeatedly shows us that disabilities are not a barrier to fulfilling God’s purpose. Take Moses, for example. Moses, the great leader of the Hebrews, had a speech impediment—something he only brought up with God when tasked with freeing the Hebrews in Exodus 4:10.
Before that moment, we never hear Moses question his leadership abilities, even though he had this hidden challenge. Maybe he didn’t want to disappoint God, or maybe the environment he was raised in—living under Pharaoh’s authority—masked his insecurities about speaking. We don’t know exactly what Moses experienced in relation to his disability, but we know it was significant enough for him to mention it to God.
And what does God say in response? He doesn’t dismiss Moses’ struggle. In Exodus 4:11-12, God replies, “Who makes a person’s mouth? Who decides whether people speak or do not speak, hear or do not hear, see or do not see? Is it not I, the LORD? Now go! I will be with you as you speak, and I will instruct you in what to say.”
God told Moses that He created him exactly as he was, and his gifts were sufficient. The only time God becomes frustrated is when Moses can’t see past his own struggles to trust that God would use him, even with his limitations.
What’s important here is that Moses had a disability—one that wasn’t obvious until he was required to speak. Even though he led armies and commanded great authority, Moses still doubted his ability when it came to his disability. This is something many of us with invisible disabilities can relate to.
In many Christian spaces, there is an expectation that individuals should “share a word” they received from God. But when someone with a disability struggles to express their thoughts eloquently, a well-meaning brother or sister might jump in to “help” by restating their point, often without asking. While this seems kind, it can send a message that the person isn’t capable enough to speak for themselves.
Similarly, when church groups ask everyone to read scripture out loud, those with reading or speech difficulties can feel embarrassed or judged. Some people may get frustrated with a lack of participation, while others might go so far as to give sermons about pride, urging individuals to be more socially active “for the Kingdom.” Extroversion and social behavior are praised, while introversion or quiet reflection is scolded.
The sad reality is that without understanding and support, people with invisible disabilities can feel marginalized in Christian spaces—places that should be filled with the most grace and understanding.
A disability does not make someone incapable of fulfilling God’s purpose. In fact, just as God used Moses, He can use anyone—disabilities and all—to achieve His will. It’s up to us, as the Body of Christ, to create spaces where every person feels valued, accepted, and supported, regardless of whether their challenges are visible or not.
Let’s continue the conversation and ensure that true diversity—one that includes all people, especially those with invisible disabilities—is present in every aspect of our Christian communities.
