Philemon 1:6 "... and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become
effective through the knowledge of every good thing which is in you for
Christ's sake."
The year was 1980. I was halfway through an 18 month regimen of weekly
chemotherapy treatments. Fatigue was my constant companion and nausea
always hung just below the surface, eager to make its appearance.
In the midst of the physical discomfort, God was birthing something new
deep inside me. The fear and despair that enveloped me were being
displaced by an inexplicable peace and joy. The Holy Spirit was
renewing me, remaking me with promises from His Word and by the prayers
and encouragement of my Christian friends. I remember telling friends
that He was "tenderizing" my heart.
The people who impacted me most were those who had overcome similar
circumstances and had experienced God's mercy first hand. They had
"walked in my shoes" and, because of that, what they said pierced the
surface and stuck in my heart. They had instant credibility and I hung
on their every word.
Paul's message to Philemon echoes my journey. As we experience the
"good things" Christ is doing in us, He is building in us a testimony.
My walk through cancer has given me credentials, allowing me to
effectively share my faith with others who may be traveling the same
road. Whatever your circumstance, He's doing the same thing in you.
Lord, I can honestly say "Thank You" for my membership in the fraternity
of cancer survivors. Although it wasn't clear at the time, looking
back, I see that the suffering was an essential part of my spiritual
journey. I'm so thankful that I can trust You with every facet of my
life. Please let others see in me a grateful heart today. Amen.
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