What Can Cancer Build?, January 16
Daily Reflections from Inside the Cancer Journey
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Written by Justin Wood
“This is what the Lord says: ‘Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. Where is the house you will build for me? Where will my resting place be? Has not my hand made all these things, and so they came into being?’ declares the Lord. ‘These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite [wounded] in spirit, and who tremble at my word’” (Isaiah 66:1-2 NIV).
What can cancer build in you? We know the narrative about how cancer destroys your cells, your tissue, your organs. We know the story that cancer can destroy your routine, your relationships, your family, your self-esteem. But what can cancer build in you? Can cancer build anything good in you? Is that even possible?
Today’s passage starts with the Lord speaking like an expert master carpenter. He has built the heavens and the earth, and He did it really well. We appreciate His beauty when we stand on the edge of the Grand Canyon, or witness the leaves changing color in the fall, or experience the ocean tides wrapping around our ankles. But then God asks you a delightful, meaningful question: What place can you build for God, the master builder? In search of an answer, your thoughts might go to all the magnificent structures which have been built throughout history for someone’s God or gods. But even if you’re a master builder, there’s little chance you can whip up a cathedral in your spare time.
Can we really build a place that delights the Lord even as we face cancer?
Yes—but not with wood or stone. Instead, today’s verse encourages each of us to find God’s favor by building a place in our heart with these three building blocks.
Humility
A wounded spirit
A heart that trembles at God’s Word
Please hear me. This is not an easy build! No one should casually volunteer for the assignment. But consider this: maybe cancer can help us build a place for the Lord. When cancer hits you with the first two building blocks, turn your whole heart to the third—turn to God and His Word.
If cancer humiliates your body where you cannot take care of yourself, turn your heart to God.
If cancer wounds your self-esteem and hope—turn your heart to God.
If cancer causes your heart to be so tender that it shakes with just the slightest mention of God, this is a good thing. Don’t turn away.
I do not believe God brings cancer upon us. I do believe that cancer provides building material for a deeper dwelling place for God in our hearts. Do not waste the building materials in your life. God is looking for the heart that walks in humility and brokenness and trembling.
Pray: Dear Jesus, I know You are the ultimate example of someone who walks in humility, brokenness, and trembling. I know this isn’t an easy journey, but it is the best. Teach me to walk like You. Amen.
Your Turn: Can you think of a time in your life where you had to face humility, a broken spirit and trembling at God’s Word? How did God use these things in your life to build a special place for the Lord within you?
Justin Wood, Childhood Cancer Survivor
Justin lives in Bowling Green, Kentucky with his wife and six homeschooled kids. Through his life, Justin has become a wonderful mix of entrepreneur, English teacher, and foreign missionary. He is a survivor of childhood cancer. Justin is very grateful for Cancer Companions and the opportunity to be a part of this devotional writing process.
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