Cancer Encouragement

God walked through chemo, surgery, and radiation, and he will do it for you. In 2014, I was diagnosed with advanced, aggressive Stage 4 Breast Cancer. (If interested in the nitty-gritty number details, click HERE). I recently celebrated my 7th year in “NED” No Evidence of Disease” status. Without a doubt, although I’d never want to have it again, I’m very thankful for what God produced great healing in my soul and heart as he healed my body.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil,
for you are with me. Psalm 23:4

If cancer were a punishment, almost everyone would have it, and people would be nice to one another for no other reason than fear of sickness. Sickness is an age-old question, and scientists and theologians still don’t have definitive answers. There are genetics, exposure to toxins, and other components too. I’ve found that empaths and caregivers have a higher rate of cancer and not many sociopaths. You aren’t being punished. You, like me, may have neglected or even abused your health, but consider drug addicts, they don’t have a high rate of cancer, and theoretically, they should. There are other factors at work. Wherever your cancer originated, God can use it in a mighty way to bring restoration and healing into your soul. Although I’d not choose cancer, after eight years of NED, I sincerely say I’m so thankful for God’s blessings I received through the journey.

For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers,  nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39

Crying releases emotions and pain that are too overwhelming and deep for words. God designed tears for that purpose. Maybe you’ve always felt that you have to be the strong one, that you can’t cry or show weakness. Cancer gives you no choice but provides us with a “justified” reason to cry. In this, we find healing and a vulnerability we may not have previously afforded. I wrote this little poem entitled “Let the Tears Flow” for my friend. Like many people, she had to grow up too fast, and her emotions or hurts were never allowed. Cancer has released tears that she’s bottled up since childhood. She’s learning through cancer that God loves her and doesn’t want that childhood for her. He is healing that inner child through the experience of this disease as she learns that it’s okay to be weak.

My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. Psalm 121:2