“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:6-7)
Before I write my heart to you this morning, I need you to know this one thing up front:
I’m writing from a place of prayerfulness and peacefulness in the Lord… emphasis on the “fullness.” With prayer comes peace. It’s God’s promise to us as his children. Several years ago, I memorized this portion of Scripture because it was a promise I could hang my heart on—a truth that has proven truthful to me time and again as I have been faithful to meet the requirement therein…
To pray about everything.
Prayer is directly connected to the thoughts of our hearts and minds. Keeping connected to the King in prayer is a fail-safe way of taking all thoughts captive and making them obedient to Christ. When we’re talking to him, listening to him, sharing life with him in the most personal of ways, we experience one of the purest, most holy avenues of worship we’ll ever know on this side of eternity. When we pray, we acknowledge our humanness and our righteousness all in the same breath. Prayer is the link between our flesh and our faith, between our hearts and God’s.
Prayer is a gift and a privilege and the one reason I am able to type this next sentence with a strong measure peace in my heart.
My good and kind friends, I have breast cancer.
Yesterday marked the beginning of my official diagnosis. Today marks the beginning of my living within the reality of what all of that means. I imagine it’s been with me while—the cancer—hiding quietly in the lower quadrant of my right breast. Three weeks ago a mammogram detected a discrepancy which led to further tests which led to a biopsy which led to yesterday’s labeling. And while it has come as a shock to my family (and rightly so) there is a deep sense of understanding and “settling” within my spirit. I can only attribute that kind of personal peace to the prayers and the faith that have been lived out prior to this moment in time.
God has well-prepared me for the road ahead, friends. I haven’t a clue as to the particulars, and I’m certain that there will be times of confusion, pain, questions, and tears. But I’m also certain that there will be times of clarity, answers, joys, and victories. This morning, I’m reminded of something that God scripted onto my heart a season back when a similar “threat” loomed on my horizon (first written in this post). He has embedded it into my thoughts over time; it will serve as an anchor for me in the days to come.
“It doesn’t matter how long God chooses to preserve my earthly life. What matters is how I choose to preserve him in the earthly life I’ve been given.”
Pray that I preserve him well each step of the way. And if you would, please pray for my family—that God would give them, each one, a similar measure of peace and strength for the journey ahead. We walk it together, you and me and them. It’s what Christians do best—corporately loving and living out our kingdom conferment. You bless me with the gift of your friendship—your sacred participation in my life; I need it now more than ever. As always…
Peace for the journey,
~elaine
Elaine, I will be interceding with you and your family for your complete healing and recovery from this. I've seen God do it and I know he is able. Faith, continue to have FAITH. 😉 Your name was given to you just right, because I know you are a woman of Faith. I will pray for your continued peace and comfort, joy and hope in the Lord. He is indeed our peace and our strength.
Hang in there my sweet friend. I'm believing God with you!
Hugs, Prayers and Blessings,
Kennisha
I'm so sorry to hear this Elaine, and at the same time, so encouraged by your response to the diagnosis!
Recently another blog friend began the same journey, and she has also been such an encouragement. Perhaps you'd like to visit her…her blog is 'Watering Wells of Hope' it's found in my right sidebar.
I'll be praying for you.
Oh my! I am stunned. And my heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you, my friend.
I love how God gives us peace of mind when we surrender our all to Him. Prayers will be going up definitely. In Jesus' name, amen!
I, too, am praying for you. Jesus…Jesus…Jesus…..
Starla Ellison
Elaine, I have been concerned about you but had no idea you were going through such serious tests.
Dear precious friend, I praise God for His Spirit, which is giving you peace and comfort this very moment. And, He Who has begun this work of peace in this phase of your journey will most surely continue to minister to you.
You and your family will be in my heart and prayers. God is so faithful. I know I do not have to say those words to you, for you know Him, but He will whisper His presence in every moment of this night of your life.
I am believing Jesus Christ for a complete healing in you. So many have walked this road before you, and they are now looking back at it with complete health and a wonderful testimony.
Please accept my sincerity in wanting to be here for you. Anytime! Day. Night. I will do anything to support you.
Much love,
Andrea
It doesn't get easier hearing it the second time.
The stength that accompanies your words…your trust…your faith…your surrender…your tears…your peace…all held by God.
My prayers and love continue.
Many hugs from here,
Joy
Praying God's very best for you, Elaine…
Mary
Elaine:
I think I was the first to read this earlier. I had to take a few minutes and come back. I am so very sorry to hear this, but even as I say that, I feel so certain that God has somehow prepared your heart for this journey of faith. He knows all about it, and He's already on the other side of this, as the rest of us join you in praying and trusting for His complete healing, as we are privileged to walk alongside of you.
Please be assured of that. Even as I am reading your book right now, I am so reminded of the title God gave to you… Peace for the Journey… my prayer for you today and in the days ahead.
Much love,
Sonja
Dear Elaine,
I've heard so much about you from Joy and saw her request for prayer for you today. I just wanted to tell you that I will be praying for you and for your family that the peace that He has given you will be given to your loved ones as you fight this battle trusting Jesus all the way!
Hugs from a cyber friend,
Carol. (Joy's friend)
You have been on my heart for many long hours. I've no doubt you'll tackle this battle and the journey it entails with your usual courage and peace.
I love the beautiful poignancy of your pen here, Elaine. It says much about the quality of your character. More so, it speaks volumes about the character of your God, and mine.
I love you,
Kathleen
Elaine, I Believe and have seen God heal! You have blessed so many with your words of Peace and now God has given you another opportunity to journey that peace with Him all the more.
I am honored to pray and to walk this journey with you.
Your strength and openness humble me.
Sending Hugs and Lifting up Prayers!
No words. Only tears. I will email you.
Lovingly,
Marilyn…in Mississippi
Many prayers from me on behalf of you and your family. I am touched and challenged by your the grace in your response to this news. May your new community draw together to give you the kind of support that only family offers.
Love you. Praying for you.
Mary
Elaine, I read about your diagnosis on Sassy's blog and headed right over here. I am so sorry you are going through this challenge now. I know you've been through so many changes recently with the move and all. But God knew this in advance. He isn't surprised by cancer. But I can only imagine how you feel. I'm amazed at your strong faith and trust. I can learn from you!
I will be praying for you and your family. And your blogging friends will be right here for you anytime. We will pray you through the storm and fix our eyes on Jesus.
Love you,
Debbie
Elaine, you and your family are in my prayers. Stand firm. He is mighty to save.
-Stacey
friendsforthejourney:
I cannot begin to number how my wife Elaine has come to value her internet-relationship with each of you.
My wife is so brave and such a woman of faith, her response to yesterday's diagnosis was: "Billy, instead of me saying 'Why me?' better for me to
think, 'Why NOT me?' just because I'm a Christian I should not think that I'm immune to suffering. Somehow God will be glorified through [my cancer]."
My wife is, as they say, the real deal. You are too. The Body of Christ is about people, about relationships, and most of all about Jesus. Thank you for being the church right here on Elaine's website. She needs you. We need you. Like one of my favorite black Gospel artists, Smokey Norful says, "God is able."
Love to you all,
Billy
Oh, Elaine, I had a feeling something like this was coming, knowing you were making trips to the doc. I'm so sorry you and your family are faced with this. I will be praying for you all as you battle this together, and I'll be asking God to grant you healing.
Am so thankful that God has filled you with His peace. And so thankful His love sustains us during the toughest of times. Sending love and hugs and prayers your way. Keep us posted. You can count on our prayers!
Dear Elaine,
Please know that you will be in my thoughts and prayers. I had a scare with this as well, and I know how you are feeling. I also know that your immense faith in God and his healing powers will bring you through this for His glory!
Love you sister! Sending prayers for and for your family and friends who love and support you.
dear elaine,
i am so sorry to hear about your diagnosis
and will be praying for continued peace
and leading.
may the doctors have great wisdom and
your family great peace and trust in the
Great Physician.
Your blog came to my attention through Sassy's, but I know the Lord worked out the details. I know just where you are at right now as I just recently heard those words myself…"You have breast cancer." How life alterating they really were. And yet your comment of
"It doesn't matter how long God chooses to preserve my earthly life. What matters is how I choose to preserve Him
in the earthly life I've been given." soo touched my heart and spirit. They are just soo true. I can tell you personally that I experienced such a peace through my journey that could have ONLY come from a loving and mighty God that there is no doubt I will ever be the same. It is soo obvious to me that the Lord uses these trials to minister to others and you are already doing just that. I will pray for you as you go through this, and feel free to contact me ANYTIME at [email protected] if you have any questions or specific prayer requests. We serve a loving and mighty God who will walk with you through this and carry you when you are weary. Nothing happens outside of His knowledge and control. Much love to you, Debbie
God walks us down some strange roads. And while we're putting one foot in front of the other, sometimes with great fear and trepidation, He is guiding, teaching, and causing us to become ever more dependent upon Him and less and less dependent upon our Self.
You've been on my mind since yesterday and I planned to stop by and see how your adjusting to your new home was going. Now I know why I've been praying for you. I will continue to my friend. God will use this bump in your road for great things. I know that from knowing you.
Praying…petitioning…and praising…Tiffany's Sweet P's seem so appropriate right now…
Praying for you and your family…
Petitioning for healing…
Praising for what He has done and what He will do…
You are loved, sister….
Elaine,
I am so sorry. I will begin praying and continue forth. You are loved mightily!
Yolanda
Sweet friend…you, Billy, and the rest of your family can count on Bill and I to pray continuously. We've been praying since your call.
Know that whatever you need us to do, we will make it happen. Those are not just words. We mean it. We're in this with you for the long haul.
Trusting God and His promises. Asking Him to hold your extra close in the days ahead, providing His peace for this journey.
We love you
My precious sister-friend, I am on it in prayer! I just told Peter on the phone and he immediately went into prayer together.
We trust in the LORD and His Peace is with you as is His Healing touch…
We remain in prayer and praise unto GOD for this season you are in. You (that means your entire being) belongs to GOD.
Praying as you said in your last paragraph as well.
I love you dearly!!!
Elaine my friend I don't want to mess up in human words what my heart is feeling and sensing right now…so I will keep it brief…I truly sense Him all around this situation, in you, through you, in your family and through your family. Prayers being lifted on purpose for this stage in the journey! I love you!
Oh Elaine, our God shines so beautifully through your words and your heart! I'm praying with you and I know our Father is already up to something amazing!
I blogged about Psalm 90:12 today…and Mathew Henry’s commentary was my other reference. Henry states:
Those who would learn true wisdom, must pray for Divine instruction must beg to be taught by the Holy Spirit for comfort and joy in the returns of God's favor. His favor would be a full fountain of future joys, a sufficient balance to former griefs. Let the grace of God in us produce the light of good works. And let Divine consolations put gladness into our hearts, and a lustre upon our countenances.
For you, my friend, I am praying a 'glowing lustre' on you 😉
Dear Elaine,
Please know that you and your family are in my heart and prayers. I haven't commented much but am a reader of your blog as well as your "Peace for the Journey" book. That is exactly what our faithful Father will give you in this season of your life … Peace for the Journey.
Your faith, strength, surrender, and the peace that God has already given you are evident in your words. I will add your name to my walk/run list for the Komen Race for the Cure in October along with many others and each step I take will be for each of you.
Praying for you sweet friend and praying that God will show Himself mighty through you and fill you with His "Shalom Shalom."
Believing God for complete and perfect healing,
Carol
Elaine,
I found my way to your blog from Kathleen's post today and stand by you in prayer daily and ask for strength not only for you and your family but victory in winning this battle. Since this isn't God's plan for us to ever get cancer, we stand firm in believing you will triumph with His aid in this fight.
In the process, you will help so many women in their own battles and show them through faith in our God that we can stay positive and believe in the possibilities from God.
Stay comforted in the words from Psalm 91 as we pray these words to you and your family.
Love and Hugs ~ Kat
Elaine, you and your family will be in my prayers. May His peace continue to fill you.
Blessings
Andrea
Elaine~
You and your precious, sweet, adorable family are MUCH in my prayers.
Thankful that we servea Savior…in whom NOTHING…catches him by surprise.
He has a plan….and he will lead you through this!
<3 you!
Dearest Elaine, I have just come over from Lisa's blog but so surprised I haven't been here before now; having said that there are no accidents in the Lord's timing. I see so many of the sisters I've met have left you comments and I join them in lifting you and your family before the Throne. I am going to begin to follow you and uphold you and yours. With hugs and prayers,
Noreen
Elaine-Elaine-Elaine. My heart is full for you. Full to overflowing of I know God to be. Everything.
YOU can count on the prayers going up on your behalf from Florida..from a little study room-and make shift altar. HE will hear…in every corner of our world as prayers WILL go up–He will turn to the angels and say–WHAT ABOUT THIS ELAINE??
I love YOU friend. Am blessed beyond measure that He planted our seats (no pun intended) next to each other in that first class that has established my course.
Call me. For anything.
Elaine,
My family will be lifting you in our prayers and we'll also put you on the prayer list at our church.
The Joy of the Lord is your strength.
holykisses xoxo
Lea
Came over from Beth's blog. Will definitely be praying for you and your family. We serve a mighty God who is way bigger than cancer. I will pray for healing and peace for you!!
Love and Blessings
Oh my sweet sister in Christ, I am so sorry to hear of your breast cancer. But, remember, this was never a shock to God. It didn't take Him by surprise. He is allowing this in your life to bring you closer to Himself and mold you to be more like Him.
So many times people will say that God will never give us more than we can handle. But, that is not true. He will always give us more because He wants us to run to Him to find everything we need in Him…not within ourselves.
I am praying for you as you seek Him on this new journey in your life. I am praying for your family. So many times the person with the illness has more peace than family members. I am praying for each of them.
I love you my sister,
Sheryl
Elaine,
I will be praying for you and your family. You are a strong woman of God, one that I admire, through your written words.
You already know this but rememeber… our God is Good, our God is faithful and our God is the Great Physcian!
Love and Hugs~Tammy
My Dear sweet cousin Elaine, this morning, while at home preparing for work, I saw an email from my Dad. As I read it, tears started to fall on my phone, and I went from the typical 'morning rush madness,' to a complete stillness. I felt sadness that I haven't in felt in quite a long time..and then, in nearly the same breathe, a peacefulness overcame me. After reading your Blog here over the years, I know how strong you are, and you will overcome this, I am certain of that. I want you to know how much I love you, and I prayed immediately as I sit there holding my phone. You have given me strength over the years, I can't begin to tell you how much..and I know you will be here, writing this blog, being a wonderful Mom, Wife, Daughter, Cousin, dear friend, for many years to come. I love you, and am praying for you my beautiful cousin, Faith Elaine~ You are such an inspiration, and such a beautiful spirit, I only wish I could be more like you~ God Bless You, I love you so very much, Elaine~
Cousin Carol Lynn~
Dear Elaine,
I am so sorry. Please know that our family will be covering you and your family each step of the way in prayer.
May God buoy you up with His ever present loving arms and carry you safely on this journey.
Much love and endless prayers,
Lisa
I'm praying for you now, Elaine. Wishing I could hug you today, right now. Wishing we could laugh and cry together. You are not alone. This sister loves you. And so does our LORD. Father God, please bring perfect peace.
Elaine,
I'm so sorry to hear of your news.
One of my dear friends is walking this very same journey and found out she too had breast cancer in last April. She is beginning treatment this week. I pray you will visit her and reach out for more support and love! I trust her heart for God will bless you!
Her blog is http://hiswaynotmine.blogspot.com
May God richly bless you and comfort you and your family as you walk even closer still to Him!
Jill
He is faithful. Know there are many, including I, who are storming the heavens on your behalf.
Hugs, love, and lots of prayers,
andrea
Elaine, I am lifting you up to the Father right now. Praising Him for the peace he is giving you, and praying for that peace to rest on your family as well.
I see you resting in his hands right now.
Blessings,
Jan
Elaine,
Visiting you from our sister Lisa Shaw's blog. I am praying for you, sister friend. We know our God is able to do more than we ask or imagine. Lots of love to you!
in His precious, unfailing love,
Melanie
~ melscoffeebreak.blogspot.com ~
Elaine — I've not walked this path, but I know God's hand is in everything that happens in our lives. I know that you trust His will for you and while understanding the reasons for this is not possible at this time, I'm praying that the Lord will show you His Hand along each step of this journey.
You are a precious child of the King most High and I'm lifting your name in prayer to the One and Only God!
Intercession is a gift that I glady give to you, Elaine. May the peace of God flood you in this journey. Thinking of your family and praying for them, too. Never hesitate to let me know if I can pray about anything you need in the days to come.
Your friend,
Mary
Dear Elaine,
I will pray that you preserve Him well. I will pray that peace and strength cover both you and your precious family. I will pray that the medical professionals will have wisdom and compassion as they work with you to develop a plan of care.
Not a cell is grown and not a diagnosis is made without the knowledge of our God. His grace is the soil we trod and the air we breath. I stand with you now, in the words of Augustine, "Trusting the past to the mercy of God, the present to His love and the future to His Providence".
With love and prayers,
Denise
On our knees in Connecticut in prayer with you…..
cancer is ugly.
Jesus Christ is beautiful.
And always remember that Jesus is still in the miracle business.
xox
*~Michelle~*
I have the best friends in the world… God knew I would need you in this season, even those of you who've never been here before. You bless me with your kind words and prayers this day. I'll treasure them in my heart in the days to come.
peace~elaine
Beloved friend and Pastor Billy,
I am not saying one thing you do not know but I want to scream my affirmation of what you do:
God did not lead you into this desert to abandon you to thirst. As one of your 1,673 closest friends, I'm standing with you.
Judith
One Water Carrier
Elaine, I came here to encourage you and am leaving encouraged myself. I would be wise to remember, "It doesn’t matter how long God chooses to preserve my earthly life. What matters is how I choose to preserve him in the earthly life I’ve been given.”
Thank you for those words. Please know one who has been there is praying for you, for your family and for your continued peace.
Sending love,
Lisa
Dear Elaine and family, I am proud of your faith and trust with you that God is in control. I will especially be praying for your kids as I know how scary this can be for a child. I will pray for strength for Billy to be what you need. I will pray that God will use you and bless you along this new journey. Love you guys and the Jeremiah verse is my favorite!
Oh my, you can count on my prayers. God knew about this long before you and your family did and He was not surprised or fearful about it. I pray that He will give you and your family an unspeakable peace as you walk this new path.
God bless you, my friend.
Leah
Elaine, I grow to hate the thought of anyone I love going through such suffering–it hurts too much–and it strikes without favoritism.
But, without a doubt God has been there and is there now and has gone before you in the treatment. He has allowed this and therefore I know He has also 'prepared' you, equipped you and provided for you. For this I know, His love for you knows no bounds. This is for His glory.
With Love, thoughts and prayers,
Sita
Elaine, I'm visiting you from Lisa's blog. I join in with you and the many family and friends in praying for you. Your confident trust in Him shines through in your post. I pray that your body be healed and that you will be a light shining in darkness for others as you walk through this path.
Elaine – I'm here from Lisa's blog and wanted you to know I'm praying for you, right now!
so blessed to be divinely connected~ to share the journey of life together. Your writings~ your words especially today in light of a what could be darkness, speak LIFE and HOPE with immeasurable power.
Yes, we will join together with you praying~ interceding for you and your family. TRUSTING GOD for directives, peace and healing rain to pour down and saturate your being. With His love from above. THank you for writng your heart out…
Bonnie K
Blessings my dearest Elaine…
Peace for the Journey brought us together when I started to blog.
You came over and encouraged me with your peace!
Now is the time for me to return with that PEACE, HIS PEACE that your words share, HIS COMFORT & all of our prayers united for you and your family. I love your intro.
Though I'm sure all these sisters love you and among them there may be others that have gone this journey, but I wanted to share another blogger, Stacy, who is sharing her recent journey through this on her blog since middle summer (I'm not sure when she found out but I do know she had her surgery in the summer). Her words may encourage you and bring you some co-wisdom. You both can lean on each other. I did not know if you know her…Her blog is His Way…Not Mine
http://hiswaynotmine.blogspot.com/2010/07/one-week-lateri-press-on.html
I do not share this in any way to make light of your own suffering and your family coping. I will be praying for you. I added your link on our prayer requests at The
Lighthouse of Prayer. Hoping that others will leave a prayer for you there. If they do, I will bring them or email to you! My own sister is a breast cancer survivor. It is an honor and privilege to go to the Throne on your behalf.
With love & prayers,
Peggy
I noticed that Jill visited after I posted my comment and she too shared Stacy! I hope that you will check out the post I mentioned and many others.
May you both find strength in each other's words & Jesus! I know that you walk in the PEACE and there is FULLNESS in YOU & HIS PEACE in You!
Shine on, girl!
Oh my sweet sweet friend…I love you and I am sending you the biggest cyber hug!! I read that sentence and I didn't have that dreaded gasp or shock (don't think me cold…please let me explain). I did sigh but I felt peace and confidence for you. It is something you have been teaching me throughout our last few years as friends. So I prayerfully send them to you…peace and confidence. I know I felt this because I knew it was you and nothing is too hard for Elaine, maidservant and witness of God. And nothing is too hard for our God. Believe it…even now. I know this is scary but your faith is so strong, and my faith is strong for you. Pray for you and your family? Without ceasing!!
Yesterday when I was flying home I read from Luke 5…and I posted about it today…it may help and encourage you (I so hope so). I leave you the word I received from Luke 5:5 in the NKJV: NEVERTHELESS…."nevertheless at Thy word"…be faithfully obedient and glorify Him. God is in control and we will journey this with you, bathing you and your family in constant prayer and support!
Believing in a miracle for you Elaine!!
Believing Him~Pamela
Elaine,
Others have said it so eloquently, but I mimic their thoughts and prayers. Your faith has been purified by the rough and rocky road you've traveled thus far and it shines like a diamond…like a star in the heavens. I pray for continued peace on this uphill climb. Surrounded by the love of friends and family, and covered in the grace of Jesus, you are not alone in this.
Hugs and prayers to you my friend,
Kelli
Hello Elaine…Deb Bolack wrote and told me of your blog and diagnosis. I was diagnosed with Invasive Breast Cancer last Dec. I am a current survivor and have written about my journey and God's Magnificant Grace and intervention.
…and as we yeild to HIS WILL…he opens those doors we so desire to reach others. I hope that you have the opportunity to stop by and visit me. I have written about information needed for women and about my treatment course.
Please let me know if I can help you in any way.
God knows the way that we take and he does ALL things well.
God bless you with continued peace in trusting him completely for this new course in your life. To HIS Praise and Glory.
Praying for you.
HOPE
Hi, Dear, I came from Lisa's. You write beautifully. Praying for you and your family ~ I have written some scripture songs about Peace on my music website, under the Label "Peace." Blessings ~
Elaine, Praying that God will be with you in the midst of this storm. I know that these things come with such force and we can reel as the winds blow, but I know that you are in close fellowship with the one who is there with you in the storm.
Having done all to stand, stand!
Believing with you on this leg of journey…
Susan
Elaine, as I read your post, I was amazed at your strength…yes, even in writing it is sensed. But I also know the source of your strength. Your faith during this season of your life will see you through it all! Hard at times, I'm sure, but oh, what a Savior we have!!
Praying for you and your family!
~Beth
First and foremost you are such an inspiration! Your blog is amazing. <3 Stay strong in the Lord. I am praying for you and your family! May Christ continue to bring you peace. Love, Elizabeth
Sweet Elaine~
I am praying for you and your family! I am so sorry you are all having to go through this.
My hope is that you will receive as much encouragement during this time as you have given others through your blog. I've always found such encouragement and wisdom from your words.
~Blessings~
Marita
Elaine – i just sent you an email, but I wanted you to know that i am lifting you up to our precious lord! He knew that you were a woman of faith who could handle this trial and you have so many people loving you and praying for you right now!
God is who He says he is and He can do what He says he can do. Let's believe God!
Oh Elaine…I will be praying for your family and especially for you. May our Lord give you the strength for the journey you are on now.
Love & peace,
<>< Iris
Praying for all of you! Love to you and the whole family.
Dear Elaine…..Stunned by this, but know that the One who knows you best is engulfing you with His peace, hope and great strength in this journey. I am standing with you and your family upon the precious promises of our God……HE IS FAITHFUL!!
Isaiah 43:1-3 came to mind as I read this post…..
Fear not, for I have redeemed you "Elaine"; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. 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….
Know that you have a sister in Arizona who is praying for you!!!
Love,
Jackie
You are very much in my prayers dear one.
Elaine, I know you have peace about this situation. I well remember when I was diagnosed with Epilepsy, I didn't know God then and blamed him, since I found his love and grace I too am at peace, so I say all this just to let you know I stand by your side in prayer and through the strenght our Lord has given you I believe you will be just fine, You're strong and faithful to your Lord.
I pray the doctors are guided by our Lord.
PW
Elaine:
I knew you were awaiting the results. My first thought when I read the news on Sassy Granny's blog this morning was that:
"Elaine has PEACE for this journey."
I know you will take great comfort in that now.
Funny thing – that God had me reading Job this morning in the prayer room starting at chapter 3 and I didn't stop until chapter 19 – reading it from The Message paraphrase. I was amazed at the bantering between Job and his friends. [ I pray that we have no bantering here].
The good news is that God had me reading the last three chapters of Job last week — as he gave me the good news first! God wins!
In your life – in my life – He wins.
I will trust God with you in prayer and join with many others here in Blogland to support you in any way that we can.
We love you – even though God loves you more. We will not question God as to "why, God?" Instead we will ask, "what, God? What is it that You want to do to bring glory to Your Name through this trial of faith – in Elaine's life?"
This may be a curve in your journey's path but there is adventure even on the curves of life as you come to a hill and behold His glory there! Look for the treasures to be found along this new route – He's waiting there to show them to you now!
Choosing JOY, Stephanie
Elaine, I'm at a loss for words. Choked up, but standing in His puddle of peace with you. I'll be praying a ton. Love you so very much, my friend.
Dear, sweet Elaine. I love you, and am praising Him for your peace in the midst of your storm. I am absolutely praying for you. Philippians was the first book I studied as a Christian, and those two verses have sustained me through so much. Hang on.
Oh Elaine! There's nothing I can say that these precious sisters have not already said. Please know that I am praying for you and your family and for great wisdom regarding treatment.
You are loved, dear sister.
My precious friend…I’m so sorry to hear about this. If I’ve learned anything about you in the time we’ve been friends, it’s that you are real. You are also one of the strongest women I’ve ever known. Even though geography hasn’t allowed for us to interact face-to-face, your example has taught me things that reach far beyond distance on a map or even the limits of cyber space. Your faith is not something you live, it’s every fiber of WHO YOU ARE. The way you walk life’s journey with honesty, vulnerability, compassion and an insatiable desire to grow ever closer to God is evidenced in your unmistakable strength. I have no doubt that’s why God has entrusted this to you. Know you are being held very close in my thoughts and prayers. I’ve added you to my Bible Study prayer list as well.
Much love,
Tracy
Dear Elaine,
Praying that the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort will be your strength and refuge.
I will continue to keep your precious family in prayer.
I love you!
I'm praying for you, Elaine. Your hope is in Him and He will lead you.
with love…
Sending prayers heavenward fo you my precious sister! I'm believing God with you! Hugs, Rita
Never really wanted a tattoo – but all of a sudden, I'd kind of like to tattoo your words somewhere where I'd see them always: “It doesn’t matter how long God chooses to preserve my earthly life. What matters is how I choose to preserve him in the earthly life I’ve been given.”
You are in a huge company of fellow sufferers and a great crowd of prayer warriors and compassionate friends. I am one of the latter and hold you and your family members in my thoughts and prayers.
Hugs and prayers!
oh dear friend,
you are in my prayers. May the peace of God continue to flow.
My sister
God of Love,joy,peace,mercy,God is able to do all things,We are a community of prayers that are joined together,sending your family to God.We are asking for his will in your season for you and your family,Sis remain encourage we are here for the journey.
Much Love
Elaine,
I don't know what to say. You've so been on my heart lately and somehow, this was what I was praying for. I had a feeling.
I am praying for strength, endurance, a deep calm, an intimate knowing of King Jesus and comfort from & for those closest to you.
I love you dearly.
Kristen
Now I know why you've been on my mind. I've been praying without knowing why.
I'll continue with those prayers on your behalf as well as your family.
Praying for you. I stopped over from Beth's blog and I want you to know that I will be praying for you. So encouraged by your post. He will give you peace my friend.
Elaine,
You are a gift to us. I know God has gone ahead of you in this. I know God will see you through it. I will be praying for you and your family. I know God will use this time to draw you closer and us as well. This verse reminds me of the strength you have.
Isa 26:3
You will keep in perfect peace
him whose mind is steadfast,
because he trusts in you.
NIV
I pray God's love and peace consume all your thoughts. He is with you on this journey. love you, B
MY BRAVE FRIEND ELAINE!!!
Oh how this squeezes my heart! I'm so sorry to hear this. I will gladly beat on heaven's doors on your behalf. Sweet lady, God is not caught off-guard!
I'm lifting up YOU & your precious family right now.
2 Tim. 1:7
For God has not given me a spirit of fear but a spirit of power, of love and of sound mind!
Elaine, My prayers are with you and you are now on my prayer list to lift up daily. My mother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer just 3 weeks ago. We are still buckled to our knees in prayers in cries for her. I understand fully what your family is going through and will remember them.
If you visit my website, Holy Camp, you will find that most of the posts lately have been about this season in our life and I've listed many of the verses that I give my mother daily to offer support and comfort.
Dear Lord,
This sister is hurting, her family is hurting and they are all scared. They are wondering where you are…let them feel you now. Allow peace and comfort to pour over them like a soft wind. Lord, we pray for a complete physical healing, if it be your will. We also look forward to seeing what you are about to do through this. Remind this family that they are loved with an everlasting love. In Jesus' name we pray united in the belief that you are still Lord and are still in control. Amen
I just found out today. I am praying for you dear one. If I can do anything besides pray, I'm here for you despite the miles that separate us. You are loved and I find your peace for this journey inspiring. (((hugs))))
What would we do without the peace that passes all understanding?
Elaine, sweet girl, I'm praying for you.
My heart hurts for you.
I love you.
Sweet dreams.
Elaine,
Please know I am interceding on your behalf as well as your families. Trusting in HIM to provide all you need one day at a time, and at times one step at a time. May you feel HIS Presence leading, loving, and guiding you each and every day. May you feel the love and prayers of many here in this bloggy world and around you at home!
Hugs, Love, and Prayers!
Dear Elaine,
I don't know what to say… You have had so many words of comfort and peace, and your prayers have held me up through so many difficult times – some of those in the past, some in the present.
I guess I want you to know that I am interceding for you and for your family.
Though we haven't met face to face, I have come to love you, and I will be praying for you.
Thank you for sharing. Thank you for being real. Thank you for opening your life to all of us.
Love you.
Your sister in Christ,
Heather
Hi Elaine, I came over from Beth's blog. I am praying for peace, strength and healing for you and your family – as well as guidance, and continued assurance.
Oh, Elaine. I don't have words right now. Only prayers. Heartfelt and fervent prayers for you!!!!!
In the perfect love of Jesus,
Joye
You will be in my thoughts and prayers, Elaine!
Brenda
Romans 15:13 says, May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
This is my prayer for you and your family, Elaine.
Yes, LORD! Will You fill Elaine and her family with joy and peace as they trust in You – even in the face of this diagnosis – so that they may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit? So that You may receive glory by the testimony they give to the world around them?
Father, we know You were not shocked by this cancer. And You are not afraid of it. You are BIGGER. You are more POWERFUL. You can handle it!
Thank You for the way You have prepared Elaine to receive this circumstance. Thank You that You will continue in Your faithfulness to her in this journey – giving her peace, hope, and even joy every step of the way.
We give You praise, because You are worthy!
And we pray in the wonderful, powerful, beautiful, matchless Name of JESUS.
Amen and amen!
Love to you!
Karen
Elaine,
I just learned about your diagnosis on some other sweet sisters blogs. You are covered in prayer.
My heart goes out to you and your family.
Hugs,
Rachel
Sweet Elaine, this is my first visit to your blog. Your dear friend Beth, is also a blog friend of mine and has asked prayers for you & your family.
First, I must tell you that reading your most recent blog post has already blessed me. What an amazing testimony to your faith!
I am praying for complete healing and the strength to fight this. I will also be praying for your family to know the peace that God has given you.
~Carolyn
Elaine, I will be praying for you and your family. I myself am encouraged by how you chose to deal with this, May the Lord continue to lift your head and hold you in His arms.
Blessings,
Sue
You continue to be on my mind and on my heart friend…
I am in awe of the outpouring of response in love to your post. Heaven is being flooded with prayer dear one!
Elaine .you and Billy and the kids are always in our prayers,and especially at this time we just lift you up to the Lord to give you strength as He holds your hands through this part of your journey
we love you
the Chigavaziras
Elaine,
My heart aches to hear this news. However, your thoughts can be held high by your faith and by your Heavenly Father who walks through each day holding your hand. Remember, He hasnt left you Elaine, nor will our prayers cease for you and your family.
With much love,
Michelle
Elaine, We will be interceding for you here at the Bath United Methodist Church and in our home…Be encouraged my sister, following Jesus means that we go nowhere that he hasn't already been.
Grace and more peace to you all,
Kelli Sorg
praying for you Elaine…may God's peace continue to flood your soul
Our God is able!!!
Jenifer
Will be praying for you!! God will continue to bless you in unspeakable ways.
You are on my heart. Praying for you now. Hugs, B
Prayed for you and yours today on my blog of Sweet P's–prayer. May you sense God's love and peace now.
Elaine, You are one neat lady!
There are people I have met in life who have met serious illness and tragedy with a grace and peace that is amazing. I pray that when it is my turn that I will have learned from examples like yours to trust the Lord in ALL things.
Elaine,
I came to your blog by way of Tiffany's (Tea with Tiffany) and I'm glad I did. Just today, I posted a prayer on my blog that included a prayer for my sister who is also fighting breast cancer. My prayer can be summed up in one word…peace. Your post put into words what I wish I could say to my sister…but can't. While I can't say them to her, I can pray them for her. I can also pray them for you…and I will.
“You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.”- Isaiah 26:3
Sweet Elaine…
I had to swallow this before responding. Swallowed hard. Then, the Lord deposited His Faith in me and I grew a few more mm. God bless your dear soul. I know He is. I hear it in this post. Peace. Your trademark for life with Jesus.
If you don't mind – can't imagine that you would – but I'd like to put your wise words stated here – on my blog page:
"It doesn’t matter how long God chooses to preserve my earthly life. What matters is how I choose to preserve him in the earthly life I’ve been given.”
I would expect nothing less from you. You are a champion! I will walk the journey with you. Thanks for allowing me that divine privilege. Your 'Breakfast on the Beach with Jesus" series….has ushered into my being – an awesome intimacy with the Lord. The lonely night that you gave me permission – to just stay on the beach with Jesus and REST in His company. I needed your words that night – especially. And now, dear Elaine, I want to offer that same word to you. REST in the company of JESUS….He's got a nice crackling fire going. The stars are glowing especially bright for you – and He's cooking up some FISH for you – food for the journey. Partake of His goodness and Mercy. Your in good hands. I'm so glad that you know Him – I can't imagine going through it without Him.
Peace and prayers, for the whole family
Hugs, Patrina <")>><
Elaine, you and your family are in my prayers.
I will be praying! Standing on God's promises! For strength, peace and rest!
Oh Elaine, I will be praying for you and your family! Nichole sent me over here and I'm so glad she did. Godspeed my bloggy friend!
Many prayers,
Nicole
Elaine. I came over from Jen's Spirit of Truth blog when I saw you commented. I haven't been able to read blogs for some time so I was excited to read yours. And then I read Billy's guest post. And cried. I tried calling you, but both #'s are changed I would guess from the move. I want you to know my dear sister that I will pray for you and with you. You know I love you.
Lelia
Joining you in prayer Elaine. I've been away from the blog world for a bit and am praying as your last paragraph suggests.
With love, hugs and prayers,
Lora
Elaine, your name popped up on my facebook and I saw the word "cancer" and know some of your friends. So I just dropped by to say what you already know.
I was diagnosed one year ago w/Stage 2 metastatic breast cancer. Somehow, I feel connections with those facing cancer. Physically, I'm doing very well after 3 surgeries and 36 radiation treatments and an upcoming 60th birthday—I'm alive and well and alive in ways I've never been before.
Psalm 3:3 – HE is the Lifter of our Head, every day. It's the Beautiful God Who pours out of you that you will find, Psalm 50:2. He will lower the mountains you face and raise up the valleys that are inevitable—Psalm 40:4—in order that everything works out—No! in order that you may know Him and that His Glory will be on you.
I'm so sorry. I don't walk in your shoes but know some of the road ahead and a Mighty God Who is calling out for you in your wilderness—Jer 31:2-3…He is already there! Your tongue is the pen of a ready writer, Psalm 45:1-2, and you speak such faith and courage! This morning I read Ezekiel 29:21: "I'll stir up fresh hope in you—the Dawn of Deliverance is here— and I'll give you, (like Ezekiel), bold and confident words to speak. And many will realize that I am God."
I think you know some of the siestas. IDK. Not sure how I found you or if I can find you again. Sweet Dreams on you, sweet friend, for your desperation will become a humble dependence on the One Who will carry you through because HE walks with you. So obvious!
Waiting in Hope with you, Bev
[…] years later, my memory serves me correctly. One doesn’t forget a moment like that one. Some moments are meant to be remembered. They remind me of where I’ve been and how very far […]