What is the meaning of "On His Blindness" by John Milton?

In the sonnet "On His Blindness," John Milton writes about his struggle with becoming blind and whether the physical handicap keeps him from fully serving God. His concerns are answered, and he concludes the poem by stating that God does not require active service from all men, but to be faithful without complaint.

"On His Blindness" concludes with the famous line, "They also serve who only stand and waite." The sonnet is often referred to when discussing Christian faith and accepting physical issues as God's will.

Milton became completely blind in 1651. The prolific poet went on to write his most famous piece, the epic poem "Paradise Lost," in 1667.