Today is a day of gratitude. Many of you have prayed for my husband throughout this journey with cancer. This trial of over four years has been one of sadness, disappointments, sickness, changes in our household, in our marriage, and in our thinking. I would guess that we will be realizing the lessons from it for years to come.
First, I want to say thank you to all of you for your constant encouragement, prayers and love. You will never know what a few kind words can mean on the darkest days. I love you and I appreciate you in countless ways.
My husband has been declared in remission! We’ve learned that malignant melanoma, stage 4, is usually a death sentence, especially when it goes to the brain. However, our God is more powerful than melanoma!! Yes He is. We give Him all the glory!
From one day to the next, none of us ever knows what trials we will be asked to endure. One phone call, one blood test, one letter in the mail….life can turn upside down. If you believe you are immune, think again. Those who claim that God doesn’t bring or allow these things don’t really know God. His plans and purposes for us go so deep that only He knows what will change our hearts or conform us to the likeness of His Son. And these refining fires spread to our family and friends as well. We are always a work in progress. And we know that God works all things together for good for those who love Him and are calling according to His purposes. (Romans 8:28)
One night, instead of pleading for my husband’s life and healing, I simply surrendered him to God. I told God that no matter what His decision, I would accept it and praise Him and be thankful, for I know His purposes are always best. I meant it. When I released that fearful pleading, a peace flooded my soul.
The beauty of living with the Spirit abiding inside us is that His power moves and conquers devils and diseases. The battle is the Lord’s. We can rest in Him, knowing that no matter what comes He will sustain us. Not only will He sustain us, but He will meet all our needs according to His riches in glory. Why would anyone choose to live without Him? I can’t imagine.