Meditation

Read Psalm 32:6-11

Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

—Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

I sat in the surgeon’s office, confident that God was in charge and that the biopsy report would be good. Then the doctor came in, took my hand, and told me the news I never expected to hear. I had a particularly aggressive type of breast cancer and would need chemotherapy, a lumpectomy and radiation. But the doctor said, “We caught it early so we are going to expect a cure.”

My whole life went into a tailspin. During the following weeks I dutifully walked through a maze of doctor’s appointments, tests, scans, insurance issues, and scheduling around work demands. Fear and worry were my constant companions. The day chemotherapy started was almost a relief.

The months ahead were definitely not easy, but during that time God spoke to me through song, and I knew I was not alone. I was walking through deep waters, and God was with me every step of the way. I developed a playlist that I listened to over and over again, allowing God’s grace and love to replace fear with hope. As my treatment regimen was healing my body, music was healing my soul.

Even today, two years cancer free, when I hear some of the songs from my playlist I remember all I went through. But more importantly, I am assured that God will be with me no matter what lies ahead. 

Prayer—God of all comfort, thank you for being with us during hard times. Help us always rely on your grace. Amen. 

Thought for the Day—No matter how deep the water, God is with me. 

Kim Sisk (Oklahoma)