Holding On to Hope, October 22
Inside the Cancer Journey: Daily Reflections for Those Coping with Cancer
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By David Gira
Hope delayed makes the heart sick; longing fulfilled is a tree of life (Proverbs 13:12 CEB).
Radiation I received for cancer on my esophagus badly damaged it. For the next couple of years, swallowing became nearly impossible. Treatment has required multiple endoscopies, feeding tubes, surgery, hospitalizations, and a stent placed in my esophagus for several weeks to keep it open and hopefully help it heal.
After doctors removed the stent, I enjoyed a lot of great food. I still couldn’t eat everything, but I believed a full access diet was within reach. Unfortunately, the swallowing problems resumed and would require another stent. My hope for food freedom was dashed again. “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised” (Job 1:21 NIV).
The day before my doctor gave me the news, the Lord gave me today’s verse in my morning devotional time: “Hope delayed makes the heart sick; longing fulfilled is a tree of life” (Proverbs 13:12 CEB). My hope has been delayed. Other translations go with “deferred,” which implies it will happen, just not today. I like that. Others go with “hopes crushed.” Whatever you call it, your heart becomes sick.
The second part of this verse needs equal attention: “Longing fulfilled is a tree of life.” Yes, many hopes have been delayed. But many of my hopes have been realized. God has come through for me time after time. “Every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17 NIV). Countless longings, dreams, and desires have been fulfilled.
Here are a few of mine (I encourage you to make a list of your own):
· Surviving cancer. Every cancer-free scan and report since 2017 has been longing fulfilled.
· Amy and I celebrating our 25th anniversary and renewing our wedding vows in Hawaii!
· Moving our 3 kids into college.
· Amy receiving her RN and BSN and becoming a nurse. I've never been happier for anyone!
· My graduation from Duke Seminary and ordination as an Elder.
All of our most important “longings fulfilled” come only from Jesus—the forgiveness of our sin and freedom from its power. The promise of eternal life. We don’t have to fear death. The Holy Spirit lives in us, making us like Him. Knowing He will come again to make all things new provides enduring hope.
Despite today’s disappointments, Jesus satisfies my longings. He is with me. His saints and angels minister to me. I am not alone. Jesus provides my daily bread, everything I need. I’m fatigued, but He strengthens me. I’m busted, but I’m blessed. I’m waiting patiently, and He lifts me up.
Your “longings fulfilled” become your “tree of life.” This Biblical image represents God’s provision of all your needs and the complete satisfaction of the soul. The tree of life provides an opportunity to branch out and try new things, climb up to a new perspective, find refuge in its shade, and to shelter, swing, and remain deeply rooted in Jesus. Your tree of life offers you a place to wait and rest even when your hopes are delayed.
Pray: Lord, help me to trust You when my hope is delayed. Keep me mindful of Your presence. When my longings are fulfilled, help me to praise You. Let me never forget Your faithfulness and keep me always rooted in You. Amen.
Your Turn: Listen to “My Hope is In You” by Aaron Shust. Make it your prayer for today!
Michael David Gira, Jr., Cancer Survivor
David was an ordained United Methodist Pastor and graduate of Duke Divinity School. He and his wife, Amy, lived in Raleigh, North Carolina with their three children. In 2017 he was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer. In his book, How Cancer Cured Me, he shares many ways he experienced God’s healing. After a seven-year battle with cancer, David is now joyously singing praises in God’s glorious throne room. His legacy lives on through his writing for Cancer Companions, as he continues to proclaim Christ’s hope and healing power to others experiencing cancer. https://www.davidgira.com/how-cancer-cured-me
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.
