A Cancer Journey Revealing the Depth of Faith and Trust in God

My cancer journey has been a profound and transformative experience that has revealed the depth of my faith in God. Throughout this challenging journey, I have not only witnessed the strength of my faith but also realized how far-reaching and comforting it truly is.

Strengthening My Faith

Before my diagnosis in May, I had a strong sense of faith, but it was not until I was diagnosed with cancer that my faith actually grew stronger. Having supportive family members, especially my wife and children, has been a significant source of comfort and strength. I cannot overemphasize the importance of my church during this time; the deacons and spouses visited us, and on my birthday, the choir came to sing for us. This support system has been invaluable, providing emotional and spiritual sustenance during a time of great adversity.

Moreover, having a team of dedicated doctors who are always available to discuss my health issues has been a blessing. Their expertise and care have been crucial in navigating the complex landscape of cancer treatment. Reflecting on this situation, I realize that there is no better scenario than to be surrounded by such love, support, and dedication.

A Reflection on God's Mercy

During my cancer journey, I have come to understand that God is bigger than my own faith. His mercy is infinitely greater and more profound than I can ever imagine. This journey has stripped away an overinflated sense of self-confidence in my physical health, revealing the deep and emotional realization that God is my Creator and my Maker. Just as Joshua asked the Israelites to choose whom they would serve, I must choose whom I will serve—God, as I journey through cancer and beyond.

The insights I have gained are profound. I have been brought face to face with the fact that my health is not under my complete control, but rather it is in the hands of the Almighty. The verse from the Book of Psalms 118:14, 'The battle is not yours, it is the Lord's,' has become a guiding light, reminding me that my strength in faith is derived from God's grace, not my own strength. This truth is a powerful reminder to make intentional decisions to place faith over fear.

The Lord Jesus, as recorded in John 10:27, assures us that His sheep listen to His voice, and He knows His sheep, those who follow Him. As I have come to know my God, my Father, as my Creator and Maker; the Lord Jesus Christ as my Saviour and Redeemer; and the Holy Spirit as the Sustainer of God’s people, I have gained a deeper understanding that the LORD God Almighty knows me as His child—someone whom He cares for and will take care of.

Empowering Others through My Experience

To those who are currently going through their own cancer journeys, I hope that you are making good progress. One of the most important lessons I learned during my cancer journey is that our relationship with God needs to be more than just something we read about or participate in. It is a genuine relationship that requires us to know Him in a personal and intimate way.

I discovered that my initial understanding of God was too superficial. While I knew about Him and loved Him, did I truly know Him? Did I have a back-and-forth communication with the God who loves me so much? The best way for me to start knowing God more deeply was to listen to Him and talk to Him. I would still read my Bible and think about what the verse meant to me, talk to God about it, and then listen.

The second lesson I learned is encapsulated in the verse from Psalm 118:14. It is a powerful reminder that the battle is not ours to win alone; it is the Lord's. Whenever we feel like giving up or giving in, we must remember that our strength comes from the Lord. Let us turn to Him with trust and faith, knowing that He has the power to help us through even the most difficult times.

May this journey be one of growth, reflection, and ultimately, deeper faith and trust in the Lord.