His Wisdom—Just Ask, June 29
Daily Reflections from Inside the Cancer Journey
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Written by Elvin McLin
”But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5 NASB).
We all want to benefit from wisdom, not just knowledge, when we make decisions that matter. Wisdom can be defined as the ability to discern inner qualities and relationships, or having insight. It can also include good sense and good judgment.1
Sitting in the office of an oncologist can be like the beginning of a rollercoaster ride. I remember the advertising for the Screaming Eagle coming to Six Flags way back when. The rollercoaster’s wheels were designed to screech as it hurtled through the long twisting turns at breakneck speeds. The Screaming Eagle was billed as one of the largest, most terrifying roller coasters ever built at the time. I remember standing in the long line in anticipation of getting on the magnificent structure to be frightened out of my wits.
Sitting in the office listening to what seems like some foreign language the doctor is speaking is like riding to the peak of the rollercoaster. Even though you know this is going to be the ride of your life, you’re frightened you’ll need more than your own smarts to see this through. What if you had the wisdom of God? Look again at today’s verse: “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God.” That’s a precious promise of God. God’s wisdom is the bar that keeps you securely in your rollercoaster seat—bracing you for all the sudden twists and turns that cancer can bring.
Back in the office, your rollercoaster ride continues, as the oncologist determines the direction of treatment. Your doctors will strive to give you the best possible medical wisdom available. They have the training of medical school and the knowledge of years of experience to put into practice for your benefit. This all culminates in your doctors’ expertise to diagnose and treat you. You are VERY thankful for this wisdom.
But now you don’t enter their offices empty-handed. You enter each office standing on the promise of the Word of the Lord Himself, that HE will grant us His wisdom when we ask. Now, you are facing cancer with a PhD, stamped with the wisdom of the One who created you. Don’t be afraid to ask for the wisdom He promises, to help you through!
Pray: Father God in heaven, we fall on our knees before You, boldly asking for the wisdom You have graciously promised us in our battle with cancer. Please don’t delay granting our request. Amen.
Your Turn: Look at your calendar. When is the next appointment when you will want an extra dose of God’s wisdom? Pray for God’s wisdom for that situation now—AND write in your calendar to ask for God’s wisdom the morning of the appointment.
1. “Wisdom Definition & Meaning.” Merriam-Webster. Accessed August 3, 2023. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wisdom.
Elvin K. McLin, Cancer Survivor
Elvin is the husband of Dominique. They live in Ellisville, Missouri where they share five beautiful adult children and five beautiful grandchildren. Elvin is an entrepreneur who began his journey with cancer in 2019 with stage three and stage four kidney cancer. As he was healing from the first encounter with cancer, another battle with cancer reared itself in the form of prostate cancer. Elvin has been welcomed by Cancer Companions to become a member of the Board of Directors.
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.
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