Does Anyone Really Want to Hear It? February 18
Daily Reflections from Inside the Cancer Journey
If you find this devotional inspiring please consider making a donation so we can continue to create powerful devotions for all those impacted by cancer.
Written by Thomas Sherrod
“I pour out before him my complaint; before him I tell my trouble” (Psalm 142:2 NIV).
I recently spent time at the beach with our two three-year-old grandchildren. It may not be advisable, but I taught them how to chase seagulls. What a wonderful sight to see a flock take flight, circle around and land only a few yards away. The smiles on the grandchildren’s faces were priceless.
Family, friends, or coworkers can be like seagulls when hearing about your cancer diagnosis and treatments. Who really wants to hear about chemotherapy, radiation, or a life-threatening illness? It is a gift from God to find someone who will listen and not give trite answers or false assurances. l fight the urge to fly away, as well. Cancer is frightening. Most people want to be good listeners, but struggle to hear a painful story without looking for the exit. It is not personal. It's simply a human response.
In our verse for today the Psalmist says, “I pour out before him my complaint.” He doesn’t crack the door and test the waters with God. The writer unloads on God unapologetically. He says, “before him I tell my trouble.” He knows God isn’t going to get anxious and search for an escape hatch. God is your refuge in time of need. God can handle it when you need to pour out your complaints and troubles. Cancer doesn’t scare God. He has broad shoulders.
You don’t need to apologize for sharing your burdens with God. I often hear, “I haven’t told too many people this, but…” after someone shares the painful side of a cancer story. Yes, there are people willing to listen and who won’t abandon you. I count them a true blessing! May God give you the courage to boldly share your complaints and troubles from cancer with those He provides to listen. He may even supply you with a fellow traveler who has walked a similar road.
Pray: Lord, may Your Holy Spirit empower me to honestly share my cancer experience with a trusted person. May I claim Your promises to never leave me or forsake me. Help me turn to You in my hour of need. Encourage me to unashamedly pour out my burdens and troubles to You. Thank You for loving me. Amen.
Your Turn: Ask God for the courage to risk unloading your thoughts and feelings to Him, knowing His primary desire is an open and honest relationship with His children.
Thomas W. Sherrod, Cancer Survivor
Tom is a retired hospital chaplain who works part time for Atrium Wake Forest Baptist Health System in North Carolina. He organized and facilitated a cancer support group for twenty years as part of his hospital ministry. He is married for forty-four years and enjoys his three daughters, two sons-in-law, and five grandchildren. He is a recent survivor of prostate cancer and is immensely thankful for all of God's grace and provisions through it all.
Cancer Companion’s vision for the future is for every person impacted by cancer to know the hope, love, and grace of Jesus and that every oncology team has included faith in their treatment toolbox. By 2033, Cancer Companions will provide 5 million engagements through cancer prayers, scriptures and interactions to those impacted by cancer. Engagements include; social media outreach, e-newsletters, prayer team requests, 30 days of Cancer Prayer event, and volunteer connections.
To learn more about our ministry and the services we provide visit our website by clicking here.
