“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.” Isaiah 43:1-3
Hard Times
Thank you for your prayers, your notes of condolence and encouragement, your gifts, your love—day by day I’m making it through this tender time. I’m grateful to you, and to our loving God!
Before we go through hard times, we wonder how we’ll do when they hit.
This week marks seven years since I was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer. The original diagnosis was somewhat shocking as there were no symptoms. When I realized I would need surgery and chemo, I wondered if I’d make it through all that. You hear so many horror stories about chemo. Then after the shock of the diagnosis, the journey itself has been somewhat shocking because of the severity of treatment. I’ve had eight surgeries, four types of chemo treatment, and various “natural” treatments; twice I almost got to heaven before Floyd.
Having said all that, my doctors say it’s somewhat of a miracle that I’m still alive. I agree! God has wonderfully, miraculously kept me living. I am so very grateful for that. And, as I mentioned recently, the journey continues. I still need prayer. I still need people to “hold the ropes” for me. I’m praying, and my grandkids are praying, that I’ll still be around for many more years.
When I look back on all this, all I can think of is how wonderfully good and faithful the Lord has been to me. While going through all the treatment, I was also caring for Floyd. Honestly, I don’t know how I made it—except for God’s grace, our family, and lots of good friends walking with me. God has been amazing! When the Bible says His grace is “sufficient” for every need—it’s really true!!
I read about a lady who was going to take her car through an automatic car wash. She’d never done it before, and she was nervous. As her car got on the conveyor belt, it was pelted with water, shampoo, brushes coming from everywhere…and she began to wonder if her car would get stuck in the midst of that…or if she’d make it through. Then suddenly the car was dried from blowers—and she was out the other side with a clean car.
It’s a great example of going through the trials of life. We get into situations that move us along. All kinds of things “pelt” us. We feel bombarded from every angle. But with God’s help, we make it through to the other side. Sometimes it looks different when we get through the trials. We may not get the exact answers we hoped for. But we will get through it! With God holding our hand and walking by our side, we’ll make it.
As I’ve asked you to pray for me and “hold the ropes,” one friend said she had an impression that many ropes had joined together and formed a swing…for me to relax on and swing in peace. I loved that visual image. I need to rest, and I need peace. I’m picturing myself swinging on those joined ropes! Thank you for holding the ropes!
Father, hear our collective prayers for Sally—for peace and comfort with all that is happening in her life, and for the rest she needs. Amen.
P.S. Floyd’s celebration of life service will be held July 24 and will be live-streamed. If you would like more information, please click the following link: A Celebration of Life: Floyd McClung, Jr.