“How are you going to apprentice to be a leader at church, run zoom groups, serve in ministry AND study for the bar exam while going through chemo? “You’re gonna be too sick, too tired, too out of it.” These are thoughts I fought through after being diagnosed with breast cancer. These lies were sent to discourage me from doing the will of God.
When I saw the laundry-list of symptoms available to chemo patients, I almost lost heart. Some of these symptoms include loss of appetite, throwing up with nausea, nails turning black, extreme fatigue, and loss of the ability to taste. Images of my mom slowly deteriorating before my eyes during the last stages of her battle with cancer haunted me. But although I’ve had some symptoms (hair loss, some tiredness, and others that are TMI), they are minor in comparison to the horror stories I’ve heard and seen. I feel the worst 4-days post chemo; 3 days taking the steroid Decadron and 1 day withdrawing from it. After I conquer that hurdle with prayer, extra walks, and a light to-do list, my body recuperates and I relish the feeling of normalcy.
On most days, you wouldn’t be able to tell I have cancer. I continue to win souls and make disciples for the Kingdom of God in spite of my diagnosis. I’m able to serve in ministry, help women study the bible, and prepare an atmosphere of faith in my home for the Holy Spirit to touch others. The devil is a liar. I can say, with confidence, that I have done every one of the things the devil told me I couldn’t do. In fact, I have pursued His will with more spiritual vigor than ever because God is my strength. I will continue to be stead fast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that my labor is not in vain. (1. Cor. 15:58).
I have been blessed with a family who has stepped in to help me tremendously. I am beyond grateful for the support of friends and loved ones. As is promised in the book of Malachi, God has truly opened up the storehouses of Heaven to pour out a blessing I can hardly contain. God has blessed me so I can in turn help others. I am able to bless them by sharing the gospel, discipleship, time and energy, and hope when they hear this testimony.
I want to encourage you not to quit. Cancer doesn’t have the final say. Depression doesn’t have the final say. Anxiety, strife, loneliness, addiction, lust, pride don’t have the final say! God does. Open the Word and receive it in your heart because it never comes back void.
I’m living proof.
