Strength, August 21
Inside the Cancer Journey: Daily Reflections for Those Coping with Cancer
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Written by Karen Wonders
He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control (Philippians 3:21 NLT).
Cancer is good at reminding us how weak our bodies are. Nearly every physiological system experiences some kind of negative side effect as a result of cancer and its treatments. The heart reduces its pumping capacity. The kidneys and liver don’t function as efficiently. The walls of the lungs lose their integrity. Muscles lose their strength. The list goes on and on.
Yet, even healthy individuals have experienced weakness. The psalmist cried out to the Lord in his weakness (see Psalm 6:2; 31:9-10). Jacob’s thigh socket slowed him down (see Genesis 32:32). Even Samson lost his strength! (See Judges 16:20.)
How should we respond to attacks on our bodies? What do we do when our bodies fail us?
Is it crazy to suggest that we rejoice in the Lord?
Jesus told us to expect trials (see John 16:33). But He also promised to keep us through these trials! Therefore, let us purpose to find satisfaction in knowing that we have the one thing in life that really matters. In seasons of weakness, pray prayers of thankfulness. Tell God what you want Him to do, but also thank Him for what He has already done. Let God show you who He is through cancer. Depend on Christ’s mighty power at work within you. He will not faint or grow weary! Rely on His strength!
Pray: Father God, I ask that Your will be done in my life. But, God, sometimes it is hard. Sometimes I question how I can go on. Sometimes the fear and the pain overwhelm me. I don’t have the strength on my own to get through this. But You, Lord, hear my prayer. You will not leave me. Please give me the strength I need for today. Help me to keep my eyes fixed on You. You are holy and worthy of my praise. My hope rests in You alone. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Your Turn: Where are you lacking in strength? What is causing you pain? God hears your prayers. Ask God for strength to endure. Praise Him for answering your prayer before you see evidence of it in your life!
Karen Y. Wonders, PhD, FACSM, Cancer Caregiver
Karen is the Founder and CEO of Maple Tree Cancer Alliance, and Professor/Program Director of Exercise Physiology at Wright State University. Her passion is to advocate for exercise as part of the national standard of care for cancer. Her non-profit organization provides free exercise training to thousands of cancer survivors every month (www.mapletreecanceralliance.org). Dr. Wonders and her husband have 7 children—aged 16 and younger. If you think her hands are full, you should see her heart!
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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