Hope Does Not Disappoint

What’s the difference between hope and faith? This is one of deep things of God that is an inexhaustible topic that will be completely revealed on the day when we stand before the Lord Jesus – face to face.

Faith operates in the present working and churning in the heart, wooing and convincing and is based on evidence that God exists. (Hebrews 11:6) Unlike wishful thinking true faith has as its object all that is of genuine worth, He who is the Creator and will live forever.  Completely different from positive mental energy, the one who believes on Jesus Christ prays to the living God who reigns on earth from heaven; hears all, sees all, knows all and will never die.

The prophet Elijah illustrates a great example of well placed faith. He asks the people who had fallen away from God, “How long will you falter between two opinions, follow Him.” The bulls had been prepared and the false prophets leaped, cried and cut themselves but their god didn’t rouse to start the fire; day and night but no answer. Elijah had the altar drenched in water and then called on the name of His God “"LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, let it be known this day that You [are] God in Israel and I [am] Your servant, and [that] I have done all these things at Your word. Hear me, O LORD, hear me, that this people may know that You [are] the LORD God, and [that] You have turned their hearts back [to You] again. Then the fire of the LORD fell and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood and the stones and the dust, and it licked up the water that [was] in the trench. Now when all the people saw [it], they fell on their faces; and they said, "The LORD, He [is] God! The LORD, He [is] God!" That’s what the One, True God can do. That’s the heart of a righteous servant praying in earnest to His God every day of his life.  (1 Kings 18:21-39) 

Now what is hope? The Word of God declares, “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. (Romans 5:1-5)

The Christian facing cancer can endure the tribulation because we do not have hope in this life but in the life to come. We do not look inward for peace, but upward to the place where Christ dwells. We have “hope in the glory of God” as we look forward to the day Jesus will come again and transform our lowly bodies into heavenly bodies. (Philippians 3:21) We do believe in miracles rejoicing in the greatest miracle in Christ rising from the dead. Though we make ourselves available to good medicine we don’t necessarily depend on it to extend our lives beyond the time appointed by God to “go home.” As the old hymn goes, “our hope is built on nothing less than Jesus and His righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus name.

Hope does not disappoint us.

For more posts from Comfort in Christ Cancer Support go to http://comfortinchristcancersupport.blogspot.com/

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Glow in the Dark

People joke that getting radiation will make you glow in the dark. Since I’m undergoing radiation treatment right now, the doctor says we’re “mopping up” enemy soldiers that weren’t destroyed when my lung was taken out this past May. My oncologist once called his role as that of the cavalry riding in on white horses (I suppose) after the infantry – the chemo has done the heavy lifting. Cancer is an intruder or invader multiplying at a rate much faster than normal cells attempting to take over the body and hasten the aging process. A stronger weapon is needed to kill the invader and chemotherapy presumes to have the tactical advantage in this fight. Now with radiation playing its part I hope to glow in the dark but not in a materialistic sense.

Though I am endlessly grateful to the doctors who have brought me this far and the tough medicine  they’ve used, I am a Christian and therefore know for certain I am still here for one reason only; because of Jesus Christ and His sustaining power.  No matter the outcome of treatment, any progress or good news points to Jesus the provider, giving men the intelligence to discover and develop cancer fighting agents from available earthly resources. As I’ve mentioned before statistics say I should be dead by now, so the Lord’s supernatural power to heal me from this disease, His way and in His timing has certainly been a testimony to me. I pray the medical community would see that fact as well and would want to know this God in whom I have placed all my trust.

The world is a dark place though, shrouded in foolish thinking and unholy behavior. The world thumbs its nose at God and suppresses the truth about Him, by attempting to stamp out evidence He exists. Hiding in the dark, running from the light of God wishing to escape judgment is the normal course of living in the world. That was my life before I came to Christ, before I was first confronted with my own mortality. I know it’s hard to see the One, True God because He has been confused with religion, lies and the doctrines of men. Likening the history of Scripture to fairy tales has sold short the authority of God’s Word. Yet Jesus Himself said, though a man be raised from the dead men will not be persuaded to trust Him. (Reference Luke 16:19)

In a manner of speaking God has raised me from the dead not once but twice. The first “resurrection” was when I trusted in Christ as my Lord and Savior.  The second is the magnificent work He’s done in my body to take me from Stage 4 cancer to the point of now being almost healed over a year later. It’s ever clear each day is to be lived fully for Him, and I pray I would be glowing in the dark so brightly that Jesus Christ couldn’t help but be seen as the glorious God that He is. I pray harder still that those facing the fact of cancer in their lives would “let patience have [its] perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. (James 1:4) When Jesus Christ is seen as our example of perfection, we know for certain the truth of His word: “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.” (1 Peter 4:12,13) Glow in the dark my friends. J

For more posts from Comfort in Christ Cancer Support go to http://comfortinchristcancersupport.blogspot.com/

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American Cancer Society and the Links

When first diagnosed with cancer you have more questions than answers about how your life will change and how to live your life and still get treatment. Since I have thus far survived this battle (all thanks to Jesus Christ) I wanted to give the newly diagnosed the benefit of my experience with finding good resources. I have a list of links on my "Comfort in Christ Cancer Support" blog.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) provides many free benefits to cancer patients. Among these are the Look Good Feel Better program. It's a makeup and beauty tips program for women. I attended one of these after my hair fell out, which helped me ward off the urge to hide away. At the main LGFB site you'll get help finding events in every state as well as the Virtual Workshop. I also took advantage of the free wigs ACS offers. Wigs are donated and usually need to be washed before worn. You need to buy wig shampoo for this. The "wig closet" also offers breast prosthesis and bras, scarves, bandanas, plus a whole lot more. ACS offers the Road to Recovery Program, which offers transportation for patients to and from their cancer treatments and a Lodging Program; reduced or complimentary lodging for patients and a caregiver who travel for treatments.

Other links on the blog include finding grant money and financial aid for the uninsured or underinsured. So many people fall into this category and shouldn't worry about money at a time like this. Joni Eareckson Tada is a Christian woman who's been treated for breast cancer. Joni also was paralyzed by a diving accident at the age of 16. I posted a video link about Joni's attitude toward cancer. Take a look. I'll be posting more links to good resources. I have avoided any therapies or assistance that is rooted in eastern religion. The power of prayer to the One, True God of the Bible Jesus Christ, has proven time and again to be answered in magnificent ways. He has not forsaken me - just as He promised. (Hebrews 13:8) Fully trusting Jesus to provide all that's needed is now more important than ever. What a wonderful Savior.  

The Christian music links on the blog are some of my favorites and a few in particular such as "Praise You in This Storm" have really ministered to my heart through this trial. I pray the same for my brothers and sisters sharing this road with me.

The Sheep Picture

My husband thought it might be nice to explain the sheep picture I chose to head up my blog. I drew this picture about 16 years ago for a friend and if you look closely you might see the symbolism.

We are like sheep gone astray, in search of the Chief Shepherd Jesus (Psalm 119:76, 1 Peter 5:4). It is a narrow path we are on and we must cross over the bounds of our earthly life to find Jesus. There the sheep finds green pasture and the love, joy and peace that only Jesus can bring. You see the sheep isn't looking back but pressing on to the upward call of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14). Why don't we see the Shepherd in the picture? "No one at any time has seen God" (John 1:18) and it would be wrong therefore to strike an image of Him. Jesus lives in the heart of the believer and we walk by faith, not by sight until the day dawns when we see Him face to face (2 Corinthians 5:7, 1 Corinthians 13:12). We can take comfort that the Chief Shepherd cares for us deeply and says to those that belong to Him, "they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand." (John 10:28) 

So now you know the reason and the meaning behind this picture.

For more posts from Comfort in Christ Cancer Support go to http://comfortinchristcancersupport.blogspot.com/

My Journey with Lung Cancer

I am adding my story with cancer to my blog so those who follow will know that by this time in my journey I've experienced the full spectrum of cancer treatments and all the fears, doubts and questions that come with it. I also want to convey the lesson I've learned in the most powerful way possible; through it all, live or die Jesus wins; Jesus saves.


I was diagnosed with non small cell lung cancer in August 2010. It was about time, but I wasn't nearly ready to hear the news, "you've got cancer." For eight months I had been hoping my poor health and horrible cough could be attributed to something else - pneumonia, allergies, anything but cancer. This is not outside the realm of possibilities since lung cancer does masquerade as something else, being very hard to detect in early stages and usually by the time a persistent cough arrives (like me) it's already growing. 

When I was referred to a very caring pulmonologist in late June he tested me for valley fever. When that was ruled out agressive testing ensued. The good doctor performed a bronchosopy to get tissue samples from my left lung as well as a thoracentesis to extract lung fluid. I literally now know what it's like to be stabbed in the back. These tests confirmed the CAT scan findings and the PET scan showed the cancer was in most of my left lung and threatening the right by advancing through the mediastinum; the partition between both lungs. Since lung cancer "likes to land" in the liver, bones and brain, tests were ordered to see if the cancer had spread. The liver panel and bone scan were negative. The brain MRI confirmed a small lesion. Since chemotherapy doesn't cross the blood-brain barrier, the oncologist wanted the brain lesion radiated first. I had a treatment done called stereotatic radiosurgery - very science fiction if anyone would like details. I called the week all this was done "Medical Madness."  Since the disease had metastized to my brain I was labelled stage 4. My husband and I decided we would not live by statistics however, but by faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.


My first chemotherapy treatment was August 12, 2010. I received chemo treatments for 8 months. Again, if anyone wants to know what that was like, feel free to email me if you're not comfortable posting here. I had two CAT scans in between August 2010 and April 2011 which showed the chemo had worked well in shrinking the tumors. Another PET scan at that time confirmed that I might be a candidate for surgery. Only 25% of people with stage 4 lung cancer are referred for surgery. I was scheduled for a left lower lobectomy. On May 26, 2011 the surgeon had me put to sleep and when I woke up I found out he had taken the whole left lung. Obviously CAT scans are not as reliable the eyewitness testimony. I was dismal for about an hour afterward, contemplating how my life would change with only one lung. Then the Lord made me keenly aware of my surroundings and that there are people worse off than me. I know Jesus Christ!!!!! I asked Him to help me redeem the time remaining to go even deeper with Him to be used to help others know Him.


I was hoping I would be done with treatments, but not so. Since the lung is like a bellows and there were malignant cells present on the outside of the lung he was concerned there might be cells growing on my ribcage. He convinced me to undergo radiation therapy so I started that on September 6, 2011. I need 25 treatments and so far I've had 9. The radiation oncologist says 90-95 percent of the time "no side effects - only God is 100%." On that I totally agree! I also started on maintenance chemo September 12, 2011. These last only an hour, instead of 6 hours so we're moving in the right direction.


The link to the Mayo Clinic article I posted on my blog says that only 1% of the people in my situation get to this point. The surgeon said statistics tell him I should be dead by now, but I'm not and that's why he's "throwing the kitchen sink at me." He also said most people on whom he's performed pneumonectomies are oxygen dependent, wheelchair bound and on disablity the rest of their lives. Praise God, I'm still working. The only time I've really taken off since this whole thing started was four weeks to recover from surgery.

To the Christian reading this I say, we serve a mighty God who's been proven to heal the sick and raise the dead. We know that and cancer deepens our understanding of the reality of Jesus in our lives, beyond anything I've experienced before. To those that don't know the Lord Jesus as their Savior and King I say, consider eternity now before it's too late. The Scripture from James speaks to our short time here: "whereas you do not know what [will happen] tomorrow. For what [is] your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away." (James 4:14) Jesus Christ is the truth, the life and the way (John 14:6) and today is the day of salvation. (2 Corinthians 6:2)

For more posts from Comfort in Christ Cancer Support go to http://comfortinchristcancersupport.blogspot.com/

Adjusting Priorities

When faced with life-altering news, priorities inevitably must change to have the energy to deal with what's ahead. This transformation doesn't occur in the blink of an eye and thankfully the Lord doesn't reveal everything in store all at once. If I had known all that laid ahead for me when I first found out about the cancer, I'm quite certain I would have ducked and ran for cover. I am glad He only reveals a little bit at a time. No matter what we're faced with, it's important to remember that today is all we have; perhaps moment by moment is even a better way to look at life. "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." (Matthew 6:33,34)

Ever since 'sin came in' we can expect trouble, toil and strife, yet the Lord God, in His grace, offers a simple yet amazing way out from under the burden of life's trials and the problem of worry. He says "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30) Come to Him....seek Him...learn from Him. He promises rest and yet we want to still strive. I believe it is because "our inward man" seeks the credit for any accomplishment in life, even when dealing with overcoming life's most humbling issues.

The Scriptures teach, however, that "our outward man is perishing" (2 Corinthians 4:16) so why not yield to the Lord so that "our inward man" can be "renewed day by day" just as He promises? Cancer or any other disease is proof the body is not meant to last forever. There's no getting around it when you're undergoing treatment and need a bigger killer like chemo to treat the mutated cells multiplying faster than rabbits.  Facing all this reality forces one to examine what is really important.

Seeking God's kingdom for the Christian ought always be first and foremost. We who know Christ are certain He is our prize and Heaven is designed without crying, suffering or pain. (Revelation 21:4) The former things, meaning the bonds of this present broken world, will have passed away. So, when we examine our situation in light of eternity do the little things matter anymore? Whether it's getting cut off in traffic, or a personality conflict at work, does it matter who wins? Let them win. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit Peter writes this exhortation, "Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation." (1 Peter  2:11,12)

While we still dwell in our earthly bodies we will falter in succeeding with giving everything over to the Lord, and that is why we need each other especially during times of trial. How many reminders I have had during this past year+ I have been treated for cancer to keep my eyes on the prize and remember my citizenship is in Heaven. (Philippians 3:20) Lord, I pray for all those undergoing a trial of any kind, asking first for their salvation and secondly, that they may look steadfastly to You for all they want or need. In Jesus name.

For more posts from Comfort in Christ Cancer Support go to http://comfortinchristcancersupport.blogspot.com/

Please, no Empty Calories

Snicker bars, hot fudge sundaes, cherry pie, chocolate donuts - just a few of my favorite comfort foods that make me smile and satisfy the sweet tooth. When I was expecting my son, the childbirth class teacher referred to such edibles as "empty calories" appealing to the eye and taste buds, but of little or no nutritional value.

Our world these days is full of offerings to tempt the senses. We sample and consume many things that aren't necessarily good for us. In fact, some things can be subtly dangerous, candy-coated on the outside, but poisonous on the inside. We are willing to take the risk and eat to our heart's content because perhaps we foolishly think we will live forever or maybe we admittedly fear life will be cut short and want to go for the gusto regardless of the consequences.

It's going on (wow) twenty years since I laid down my life for Jesus Christ and decided to stop making up my own rules for living. I must admit it’s taking time for the Lord to help me to get rid of old habits. One of the first things to go was foul language and the compulsion to take the Lord's name in vain. Over the years I've found myself losing other unattractive characteristics and discovered I miss them about as much as a headache. The key to giving up these "empty calories" has been commitment to spend time with the Lord and get to know Him through reading and studying His word.

Now, I am facing perhaps the biggest challenge of my life thus far and I am fully persuaded everything I have come to know about my God and Savior through feasting on His word will be my continued source of strength. The Lord has surrounded me with “a great cloud of His witnesses” right now to help me remember that (for which I am ever so grateful). I would in turn like to urge anyone reading this to consider life on this earth is but a handbreadth; a brief gift from God we may choose to be used or abuse. In a moment life may be gone and then what? Eternity is a very long time. Each of us will give an account for our time spent here, for the choices we made. We can't earn the grace of God, and His grace didn't come cheap either: it cost the Father everything to redeem us. Let us make the most of the time we've been given, for His glory and not our own.

"For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age,
looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ,
who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works." (Titus 2:11-14)

For more posts from Comfort in Christ Cancer Support go to http://comfortinchristcancersupport.blogspot.com/

Hiding from Love

Now, why would anyone want to hide from love? In the early days of accepting the fact of cancer in my life, emotions ranged from wanting to crawl under a rock and pretend it wasn't happening to a desperate need to be uplifted through whatever laid ahead for me. As a woman dealing with this disease, learning chemotherapy would take all of my hair was not a welcome thought. I prepared right away for this big change by purchasing a wig and scarves. Hair was left on pillows and clothes as my crown thinned down. Hoping no one would notice, I scurried in and out of buildings, past doorways and into the safety of home hunkered down until I hoped this unpleasant phase passed. My husband made it so much easier to bear when one day he said to me, "let's take your hair before it takes you." He cut it short enough so I could start wearing the wig. Within 3 weeks the hair was gone and my worst fear with it. Losing my mane was a good lesson in losing the need for control over what was happening to me. As a Christian growth in allowing the Lord control is essential.

David, under the power of the Holy Spirit writes in Psalm 139 - "O Lord, You have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. You comprehend my path and my lying down, And are acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word on my tongue, But behold, O Lord, You know it altogether. You have hedged me behind and before, And laid Your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is high, I cannot attain it. Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend into heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the morning, And dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me." There is nowhere to hide from the Lord. His eyes see every soul on earth. His mind comprehends every concern and care of life. The love of Jesus Christ extends beyond the bounds of human existence. Because of His great sacrifice, my citizenship is already in Heaven and so I must come away from the natural inclination to hide and let Jesus love on me through whomever He may send my way. When cancer was new I wanted few to be invited to help, but as I grew in my desperate need for God to uphold me, the pride in my outward appearance became less of an issue. As written in previous posts, people came to our aid; people I don't even know. When I was low, the Lord prompted many to send cards, emails and gifts at just the right times to lift me up. I've been a Christian for almost 20 years, but never before have known the depth of God's love for me until I got cancer. Now I don't mind sharing with anyone the latest news on my treatment or my thoughts on passing from this life to the next with Christ. The reason: "You [Jesus Christ] are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in Your word. Uphold me according to Your word, that I may live; And do not let me be ashamed of my hope." (Psalm 119:114, 116) Yes Lord, use my experience with cancer as a beacon of Your light in this darkened world. Though the outward woman is perishing, inwardly I am being renewed day by day in answer to prayers to live for God's glory. Instead of hiding under a rock, I'm standing on the Rock of Christ Jesus. Hallelujah and Amen!

For more posts from Comfort in Christ Cancer Support go to http://comfortinchristcancersupport.blogspot.com/

Why Me? Why Not Me?

I've come to the definite conclusion that life on this planet is very fragile and the human body, although amazingly complex in design, is vulnerable to infirmities of all sorts. As illnesses come, it may be tempting to ask "why me?" when bad news comes home; when you're told "you have cancer." I know those are words I never wanted to hear. When I was battling hard against what I hoped would just prove to be pneumonia or valley fever, I must admit now I was in denial. The cough wasn't getting better; in fact it was keeping me up most nights and my side ached all day long. The cancer was finally confirmed through pathology on fluid taken from my lung as well as a biopsy done through a bronchosopy. The doctor didn't want to tell me the bad news, but he knew I needed treatment right away.

Of all the things that flooded through my mind, one thing I didn't ask God was "why me?" and there are several reasons why. First, I was realizing the consequences of my own actions. I had quit smoking some years ago, but evidently not soon enough. Of course, I never should have started that filthy habit. The other reason I couldn't even think of blaming God for cancer is the reality that we live in a fallen world.  As a Christian, I know that the sin of Adam and Eve had permanent consequences. As a result of their desire to place themselves above God, today we see mutations, disease, death, deceit, and all evil associated with self-exaltation. Romans 5:12 reads "Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned.." And yet we can trust that He is "upholding all things by the word of His power" and "in Him all things consist." (Hebrews 1:3 and Colossians 1:17)  Moreover no matter what life brings I know He understands my ever weakness because He knows me from the inside out. Jesus Christ, the One True God paid the full price for our sin so that we could go to Him directly will all our doubts, questions and concerns. His Word says...."For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all [points] tempted as [we are, yet] without sin." 

So since I understand that nothing in this world will last anyway, I can say without hesitation "why not me?" I have clear confidence heaven awaits me not because of anything I have don,e but because of all He has willingly done on my behalf. I must admit I have shed tears and felt pain on this journey. My husband knows that as well as my Lord. Yet the Scriptures promise those who have trusted Christ can be assured "God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away." (Revelation 21:4) With my eyes fixed on Jesus, I can press on to the upward call of God and look forward to blessing others on the way. "Why not?"

For more posts from Comfort in Christ Cancer Support go to http://comfortinchristcancersupport.blogspot.com/

Give thanks with a Grateful Heart

I have so much to thank the Lord for in the midst of this trial with cancer. I wanted to state it for my own benefit to remind me of all He has done and perhaps encourage others not to give up on seeking and finding Jesus Christ, Savior, Healer and Everlasting God.

Timing as they say is everything but I don't leave anything up to luck or chance. Since the Lord knows all the breaths I take and "every moment I'm awake" He knew I needed to be here in Arizona when I received this diagnosis. I am receiving some of the best care known to man and getting results from it. I have learned that some people don't get better and can be allergic to chemotherapy. Though I struggle with numbness and tingling in my toes and feet I have thus far experienced none of the other side effects predicted with these drugs. I am told I'm on some of the strongest drugs around so I consider it a real blessing to tolerate these killers and still be able to work.

The Lord knew when cancer came my way I would need to get out of the heat and He had just the right job waiting for me. His ways are perfect and when He promoted me to the Program Manager job with Beacon Group I found the ability to get out of the heat, flexibile hours to be able to make my medical appointments and a great group of peers there to encourage me to take care of myself. Again, the Lord knew we needed to be in Arizona.

My husband Flynn (of almost fifteen years) has been there from day one reminding me "we will get through this together." On the day we received this news, one of the first things I said to Flynn was, "I am so glad I am a Christian because I don't know how people who don't know the Lord get through this." Let me add I am so glad I have a Christian husband. My Lord works in and through Flynn as well to uphold me when I weak, remind me God's not finished with me yet, and cook the best food for me on top of everything else. Thank you Jesus for bringing Flynn and I closer together than ever before because of cancer! The Lord knew how much I would need a man like Flynn.

In addition to steadfast friends from back east  we have been amazingly blessed by our church fellowship, through Calvary Chapel now in Tucson. Of course we are so grateful Flynn works  for their affiliated school as a 2nd grade teacher. He finds joy unspeakable sharing the love of God with the little ones. Getting connected to the church body as whole right from our arrival has paid amazing benefits toward our spiritual growth, as well as provided amazing support during our current trial. Countless cards, prayer and gifts have come our way - some anonymously. Facebook messages (too) have come at just the right time to lift me up when I'm inclined to feel down. It is so good to be knit together with a Bible believing church that really lives out the message of the Gospel. What a support system I am encouraged to find in Arizona; the Carmacks and Kilbys now to boot plus a high school alumnus or two. :-)


To all my facebook friends, I wish you the very best Thanksgiving has to offer.  If you don't know the Lord may you find each other as you count the many blessings in your life. My prognosis I can say without a doubt is eternal life because of Jesus. Yeah God! < Cherrie


"For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name.  And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation."  (Luke 1:49-50)

For more posts from Comfort in Christ Cancer Support go to http://comfortinchristcancersupport.blogspot.com/

Deliver me from Evil

Trials come to us in all shapes, sizes and length of duration. Be it the economy of your pocketbook, the status of your relationships, the challenge to raise well adjusted children, or facing the uphill battle to regain health; looking at circumstances does little to comfort the soul. Whatever an individual is going through, the struggle is usually all consuming and sometimes gigantic from their perspective. As we contend with the state of affairs in our lives, which will invariably include tribulations, I want to put forth that we don't have to be worn out by them. In fact, I believe that by faith in the Lord we can live in greater contentment through looking at how He is working all things together for the good of those who love Him. (Romans 8:28)

Getting personal now, if I looked deeply into the fact that I have cancer I could surely depress into sadness over mutated cells multiplying beyond my control to destroy me. This way of living would do no earthly good and bankrupt me of the opportunity to find joy in my life.  I've faced other giants, but of course none compares to one that is life threatening. As the Lord has walked with me, I have seen so many ways He has changed my priorities, taught me how to love more and worry less. I have also witnessed how He is using this battle to effect people around me. The Scriptures account for us the life of Job who was tested by God and tempted by Satan. Job lost all that he had and yet he did not curse God. Job questioned the Lord personally asking Him why and how much longer, which deepened his faith and as His trial neared the end, Job said this: "I know that You can do everything, And that no purpose of Yours can be withheld from You." (Job 42:2) Once he finally saw the Lord clearly, all Job had lost was restored to him and "the Lord blessed the latter days of Job more than his beginning." (Job 42:12)  Job is an example for me of someone did not look at circumstances but looked for and toward the face of God, because only God knows the end from the beginning.

When Moses returned to Egypt to set the Israelites free from slavery, it wasn't as easy task. The ten plagues (some think) took place over a period of years. I am sure they thought what is taking so long to be delivered from this evil. Moses, by faith

"seeing Him who is invisible" pressed on with his call and led God's people through the Red Sea while the giants who once oppressed them were covered over by the waters in their futile pursuit to destroy them. Thinking about Israel by the way, God has always protected them, not because they are lovely or faithful but they were chosen to bring forth Christ our Redeemer. When Israel was about to enter the promised land Moses picked 12 men, one from each tribe to go spy out the land. When they returned they reported there were giants in the land and only Caleb from the tribe of Judah was inspired to say, "Let us go up at once and take possession, for we are well able to overcome it." (Numbers 13:30)

Just like Job, just like Moses, just like Caleb and many others who've gone before us, we need to look to the Lord instead of circumstances. We need to look to the Lord to deliver us from evil in His timing. Why? Jesus Christ alone is God come in the flesh who died, once for all mankind to set us free from sin and death. The apostle Peter said, "Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)

For more posts from Comfort in Christ Cancer Support go to http://comfortinchristcancersupport.blogspot.com/

A Better Way

No one escapes life without experiencing trial of some sort, a time of testing; perhaps a time of suffering; a time of great loss. We try to comfort each other as best we can, with peppy perk-ups like think positive, which to be sure is better than dwelling on the negative, but there is a better way.
There was a man named Job and he was the most righteous man on earth. God allowed Satan to test Job in every way possible but he could not destroy him. Job had a choice is how he dealt with his suffering, as do we all. Job could have cursed God as his wife suggested. Instead he chose to seek out the Lord with all his heart. He questioned the Lord but in his heart he did not sin; he did not blame God for his circumstances.
When I found out cancer was going to rock my world, two thoughts came immediately to mind; I am so glad I know the Lord because upon that rock my eternity is certain. Secondly, I can like Job say, "Though He slay me, yet I will trust Him." (Job 13:15) Through this experience I have gotten to know my God and Savior so much better. He has provided for every need each step of the way and I am still here, though statistics said I should be long gone by now. At the end of his trial Job said to the Lord very sure words each of us should take to heart. "I know that You can do everything, And that no purpose of Yours can be withheld from You. I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear, But now my eye sees You. Therefore I abhor myself, And repent in dust and ashes." (Job 42:2,5-6)
Job saw himself in comparision to the beauty and holiness of God and could do nothing but humble himself in the sight of the Lord. What we do with the trials that come our way makes a huge difference now and forever. Don't turn away. There is a better way. Trust God.


For more posts from Comfort in Christ Cancer Support go to http://comfortinchristcancersupport.blogspot.com/

Breath of Life

Ezekiel 37:5-"Thus says the Lord God to these bones: "Surely I will cause breath to enter into you, and you shall live."

From the dawn of creation to babes born yesterday, it's all about Jesus Christ, the giver of life. In going to sleep for surgery and waking up with one less lung, it's all about Jesus Christ the, "breath of life." Owing Him nothing but wanting to give Him all that's tattered and torn so that He can resurrect my life on earth to truly have meaning, loudly proclaiming; "to God be the glory" since eternity is after all only one step, one breath away.
http://www.biblestudytools.com/nkjv/ezekiel/37.html

It's impossible to walk in the Spirit, and bear the fruit of the Spirit when preoccupied with the things of earth. The mind wanders. The heart is torn. Eventually trouble, and discontent become the order the day. The Lord Jesus Christ has so much more for us, if we would just put Him first. Jesus said, "The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." (John 10:10) Instead of letting the worries of this life steal peace of mind and kill  hope in our hearts, why not "turn our eyes upon Jesus; look full in His wonderful face?"

"And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being." (Genesis 2:7) The Sunday after my surgery (on 5/29) my husband and I were watching the live webcast of our church service in my hospital room and Pastor Robert referenced "the breath of life" in his opening prayer. How fitting since I just had a lung removed. The Lord Jesus is my breath, my life and I want to make every moment count for Him. I pray it will be so. If you want to take a listen to this key message here is the link http://www.calvarytucson.com/listen.asp
May the Lord bless you!

For more posts from Comfort in Christ Cancer Support go to http://comfortinchristcancersupport.blogspot.com/

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