It's that time again. September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month! I always find this month a bit challenging. School starts again, life gets really busy, but with the 4th anniversary of my precious Mother's passing just about a month away, I feel like it is a great way to focus on a way to help others.
After my mom passed away, I was crushed. I watched her battle for 6 years before the cancer took her, and during the entire battle she smiled, took the time to care for others, and never got angry. She said that she was going to do whatever it took to glorify God. She said while she was sick, she was like an ugly caterpillar, but God was going to use her illness to His glory, and when He did she was going to be the most beautiful butterfly. Well, we all thought she already was that beautiful butterfly, but what I struggled with the most was.....why? Why her?
She was such a good person, an amazing person, who didn't do anything to deserve cancer. But then the lessons started to come to me. That's why it had to be her. Because she was so good, God could use her. She showed remarkable grace in a place where she shouldn't have to. She loved and gave of herself even though physically she didn't have much strength. Her goodness touched so many. Because she was such a wonderful person, and loved so many, others listened to her when she shared testimony about God and how He was working through her. I think of how many nurses, doctors, janitors, and cancer patients she came in touch with. How she fluttered around like the beautiful butterfly in each of their lives. She left a mark on many of their hearts. I think of all of her friends and family who she wrote to, called, had visits from, and prayed for. She touched their hearts as well.
When she was diagnosed, I started this blog. I was motivated by a tug on my heart that if I could help anyone out there, even just one person, it would glorify God, and would be worth the effort. So I decided to start spreading the word about the symptoms to all that I met and made sure I told them to never wait if they had a concern. I told them to make sure and push their doctors to test them if they had any doubt. I felt like that was how God wanted to use me to help others.
But then Mom passed away. Suddenly, I felt a tug on my heart to share with others how God had worked in me, bible verses that helped both Mom and I, lessons I learned, and struggles I dealt with. I put it all here on the blog. So those who came across this blog who already had cancer might look at those posts and get something from them as well. So that if anyone who loves someone who has cancer might read a bible verse or prayer I posted and feel some peace from it. It has changed over the years, and it is kind of a mash of many things, but I feel like everything I put on this blog needed to be there.
So read it, share it if you can, and listen to see if you have a similar tug on your heart from God.
Love,
C. (A butterfly in training)
Sunday, September 7, 2014
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Sprint for Life 2014
The 17th annual event will be held in Houston on Saturday, May 3, 2014! Register Today at
This will be my fourth Sprint For Life to attend, and this year my littlest will be joining me. C was only 4 months old when my mother passed away, but he knows all about her love of butterflies (as well as mine), knows exactly who she is, and knows that she loved him to the moon and back and all around the stars.
I have tried to take my mother's disease and death, and everything I have learned through it, to help others I meet and know who are fighting cancer or who have loved ones with cancer. That way the suffering has a purpose!
Cancer is mean, it sucks, and it affects anyone. Once you get passed that part, you realize that not only the person with cancer is suffering, but so are the people around them. How hard it is to watch someone you love deal with side effects from chemo! My mom and I used to focus on the good. If the side effects were making her that sick, just think of what the chemo is doing to the cancer! Every little good thing was lifted up in praise. When you focus on the good, you can see what God is doing. When you focus on the bad, you feel hopeless. Find the good, seek the joy in each day, and you will feel God's presence.
I have lost a dear friend, so strong in faith to cancer in the last few weeks. She did not deserve cancer, the suffering, or to die, but God used her. God showed His love through her, God brought so many closer to Him because of her. She was a pillar of faith, love, and gentleness. Oh how she will be missed, and I feel this strong desire to make sure her spirit lives on. She left a precious husband, a 6 year old son, and a 2 year old daughter behind. I can only imagine what those children will become after just a short time with their mother....it will be amazing, I know that much.
The truth is, cancer sucks. It really, really, sucks. But we can either sit and focus on the sucky stuff, or we can find praises to God. In every bad situation, if you look for the good, you will find it. That good is God.
God is good! He loves all of us!
Monday, April 29, 2013
2013 Sprint for Life!
The time is now!! This weekend is the Sprint for Life helping to raise money for Ovarian Cancer research. Here is the link to register http://www.mdanderson.org/how-you-can-help/other-ways-to-help/sprint-for-life/index.html
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month!
It is September, and that means it is time to go TEAL! It is officially Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, and the color of Ovarian Cancer Awareness is teal. A fun and easy way to support this month is by painting your toes teal. There are tons of teals out there in many different brands of polish, so finding one is easy!
What is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer is a disease in which malignant or cancerous cells are found in the ovaries. An ovary is one of two small, almond-shaped organs located on each side of the uterus that store eggs or germ cells and produce female hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Genetic or hereditary causes of ovarian cancer account for only 10% of the estimated 23, 400 cases of ovarian cancer diagnosed each year in the United States. The cause or causes of the other 90% are not known.
Pelvic exams, the CA125 blood test, and pelvic ultrasounds are three methods of diagnosing ovarian cancer in women with symptoms suggesting the disease. None of these tests is foolproof when used alone; when used together, however, they can be very helpful in diagnosing ovarian cancer in its earliest stages. In fact, CA125 levels are elevated in 50% of Stage 1 ovarian cancer patients.
Genetic or hereditary causes of ovarian cancer account for only 10% of the estimated 23, 400 cases of ovarian cancer diagnosed each year in the United States. The cause or causes of the other 90% are not known.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is difficult to detect, especially, in the early stages. This is partly due to the fact that these two small, almond shaped organs are deep within the abdominal cavity, one on each side of the uterus. These are some of the potential signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer:
Bloating
Pelvic or abdominal pain
Trouble eating or feeling full quickly
Feeling the need to urinate urgently or often
Other symptoms of ovarian cancer can include:
Fatigue
Upset stomach or heartburn
Back pain
Pain during sex
Constipation or menstrual changes
If symptoms persist for more than two weeks, see your physician.
Persistence of Symptoms
When the symptoms are persistent, when they do not resolve with normal interventions (like diet change, exercise, laxatives, rest) it is imperative for a woman to see her doctor. Persistence of symptoms is key. Because these signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer have been described as vague or silent, only around 19% of ovarian cancer is found in the early stages. Symptoms typically occur in advanced stages when tumor growth creates pressure on the bladder and rectum, and fluid begins to form.
Have a comprehensive family history taken by a physician knowledgeable in the risks associated with ovarian cancer. 5% to 10% of ovarian cancer has a familial link.
Every woman should undergo a regular rectal and vaginal pelvic examination. If an irregularity of the ovary is found, alternatives to evaluation include transvaginal sonography and/or tumor markers. The most common tumor marker is a blood test called the CA-125.
Ovarian cancer is difficult to detect, especially, in the early stages. This is partly due to the fact that these two small, almond shaped organs are deep within the abdominal cavity, one on each side of the uterus. These are some of the potential signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer:
Bloating
Pelvic or abdominal pain
Trouble eating or feeling full quickly
Feeling the need to urinate urgently or often
Other symptoms of ovarian cancer can include:
Fatigue
Upset stomach or heartburn
Back pain
Pain during sex
Constipation or menstrual changes
If symptoms persist for more than two weeks, see your physician.
Persistence of Symptoms
When the symptoms are persistent, when they do not resolve with normal interventions (like diet change, exercise, laxatives, rest) it is imperative for a woman to see her doctor. Persistence of symptoms is key. Because these signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer have been described as vague or silent, only around 19% of ovarian cancer is found in the early stages. Symptoms typically occur in advanced stages when tumor growth creates pressure on the bladder and rectum, and fluid begins to form.
Have a comprehensive family history taken by a physician knowledgeable in the risks associated with ovarian cancer. 5% to 10% of ovarian cancer has a familial link.
Every woman should undergo a regular rectal and vaginal pelvic examination. If an irregularity of the ovary is found, alternatives to evaluation include transvaginal sonography and/or tumor markers. The most common tumor marker is a blood test called the CA-125.
Saturday, May 5, 2012
Sprint for Life
Houston has a fantastic run/walk close to Mother's Day weekend each year to raise money for the Blanton-Davis Cancer Research Program at M.D. Anderson. This year was great because 2 of my boys joined me in the race!
There are races and fundraisers all over the world. Look for one in your area. Even if you don't run, you could raise money for these causes.
There are races and fundraisers all over the world. Look for one in your area. Even if you don't run, you could raise money for these causes.
Monday, February 20, 2012
A lesson learned
In the last couple of weeks, I have been thinking very hard about a topic brought up in my bible study, and I felt like I needed to include what I learned here. The topic was about how as humans we often think that God causes us to suffer. We ask, "Why is He punishing me? Why did He let someone die? Why do babies suffer and die?" and questions of that nature. Often people go to the easy answer that is supposed to make you feel better by saying "God has a plan, and He is in control." Well, when you are the one hurting or suffering, that answer isn't really comforting. I know that I have said that answer to several people, and even tried telling myself that same answer, but when you think about it, that is like saying that God made someone sick or made someone die. That it was His plan.
Here is what I came to recognize the last two weeks.
First of all, I will try not give that answer to anyone any more when they are hurting. God doesn't hurt others. God is a loving God. He takes painful situations and uses them for His glory if we let Him.
When we pray for God to heal someone or for Him to protect a loved one and our prayers don't get answered, that doesn't mean that God punished us or let us hurt. The truth is, God watches us and He hurts too. I imagine his hurt is different because He knows that our loved one is joining Him, and he can see the glory in the situation already, but he hurts when He sees us suffer. The thing is, God is omniscient. He can see the past, present, and the future all at once. He gives us free will, and we are able to make choices without His stepping in. Not because He can't, but He doesn't. Often He doesn't because He can see the entire picture for ever and ever. If He were to step in and save someone now, it could so badly mess up the plans for the future that everything would be out of balance. That is how nature works. Think about how if one species dwindles, that effects the future of many other species in nature. God is in control, yes, and that control is far beyond what our human minds can imagine. A quote I heard recently is so very true: "The more I know, the more I don't know."
So, I guess my point out of all of this is that God is a loving God, and just because we don't understand why something is happening, doesn't mean that He is not there. He often uses our struggles to teach us lessons and to glorify Him even more. Just know, that if you are suffering, if you are sick, and if you are hurting...He is there. He wants you to speak to Him. He is putting people in your life, He is putting words in front of you, and He is speaking to you....open your hearts, eyes, and ears... and listen for Him. He is there.
Proverbs 3:5-6
New International Version (NIV)
5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Deuteronomy 31:8
New International Version (NIV)
8 The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
Here is what I came to recognize the last two weeks.
First of all, I will try not give that answer to anyone any more when they are hurting. God doesn't hurt others. God is a loving God. He takes painful situations and uses them for His glory if we let Him.
When we pray for God to heal someone or for Him to protect a loved one and our prayers don't get answered, that doesn't mean that God punished us or let us hurt. The truth is, God watches us and He hurts too. I imagine his hurt is different because He knows that our loved one is joining Him, and he can see the glory in the situation already, but he hurts when He sees us suffer. The thing is, God is omniscient. He can see the past, present, and the future all at once. He gives us free will, and we are able to make choices without His stepping in. Not because He can't, but He doesn't. Often He doesn't because He can see the entire picture for ever and ever. If He were to step in and save someone now, it could so badly mess up the plans for the future that everything would be out of balance. That is how nature works. Think about how if one species dwindles, that effects the future of many other species in nature. God is in control, yes, and that control is far beyond what our human minds can imagine. A quote I heard recently is so very true: "The more I know, the more I don't know."
So, I guess my point out of all of this is that God is a loving God, and just because we don't understand why something is happening, doesn't mean that He is not there. He often uses our struggles to teach us lessons and to glorify Him even more. Just know, that if you are suffering, if you are sick, and if you are hurting...He is there. He wants you to speak to Him. He is putting people in your life, He is putting words in front of you, and He is speaking to you....open your hearts, eyes, and ears... and listen for Him. He is there.
Proverbs 3:5-6
New International Version (NIV)
5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Deuteronomy 31:8
New International Version (NIV)
8 The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
Friday, January 27, 2012
Why Do We Struggle? What is the purpose for pain?
Part of the struggle of going through a difficult situation is wondering why we have to go through it in the first place. When we get bad news, the world seems to crash around us, spinning and spinning, and then we inevitably ask...."Why God? Why is this happening to me? And how do I get through this?" Even though it is so hard to understand, pain is part of life, death is part of life, illness is part of life, and life just isn't always easy.
When we are struggling, we are supposed to reach out to God. Often that can be a far fetched idea because we are hurting, and we feel like we are being punished for something. This is a perfectly normal reaction. God is a loving God, He doesn't punish us. He never said in the bible that it would be easy once we became a Christian. In fact, it can be harder. God tells us we will have struggles (See my previous post here about that.) Living up to a Christ-like life is impossible, only Jesus was perfect, but we are to strive to be like Him. God knows we are human, and He knows we are going to make mistakes. He expects us to handle our mistakes as Jesus showed us. That is, by showing grace, asking for forgiveness, and loving others.
The bible answers the question "Why do we have struggles?"
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Praise to the God of All Comfort 3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
Right there, in written text, is the answer to why we struggle and why we have pain. So that we can be comforted by God, and then take what we learned from Him and comfort those who also suffer. Our end goal is to comfort others. Certainly when we have gone through a situation, and know someone else going through a similar situation, we can sympathize and empathize with them. It teaches us compassion, and opens our hearts to pour out God's love on others.
We can't do anything for anyone else unless we accept the first part of of the answer. We must first be comforted by God. He can't do anything unless we open our hearts to Him, unless we ask Him to come into our lives and comfort us. So pray for His comfort. When you are struggling, ask Him to help you, to bring you peace with the situation. Ask Him to wrap His loving arms around you and hold you tight, ask Him to put people in your life daily that can be his earthly angels and who can help you physically feel his comfort. Pray for God to give you the strength to get through your struggle. That doesn't mean you are praying for your own will, but that you are praying to be at peace with God's will in your situation. Once you have prayed these things, be patient and open your eyes and ears. You will start to see how God works in your life each day. Once you see Him, praise Him for the things He is doing. It is easy to pray for God's help when you are in the midst of a trial, but He wants us to pray to Him when everything is going well too. God works in our lives, not just when we are asking for help, but every day. Praise Him when things are going well, and you will continue to see the blessings each day.
Once you have felt God's comfort and love, you can begin to comfort others. This doesn't mean you are no longer grieving or hurting. Sometimes the healing of ourselves comes through helping others. Look back at what He did to comfort you, and do those things for others. Comforting others doesn't have to be anything big. Maybe just a card in the mail, an email, a phone call, a meal, a ride in your car, or running an errand for them can help bring comfort. One of the things that comforts me is when someone prays for me. Not just telling me you will pray for me, but actually praying for me. The prayer I have received has been both spoken and written. If you are uncomfortable praying aloud for someone, write a card or email with the prayer (it can be short) that you said for them. It is so comforting to know the prayers that are being said. Having said this, I am writing a prayer for you as your read this......
Dear Lord,
Thank you for the opportunity to speak to you any time I want. Thank you for your written word that speaks to me and gives me so much hope. I lift up the person reading this right now. I pray that you would enter her/his heart and show her/him your love each day. I pray that you would bring peace and joy into her/his life. Lord, thank you for being such a loving God. I praise you for the life you have given us. Help us to make the most of this gift from you, and to learn from our struggles how we can help others. God, take away the hurt and the pain, and replace it with peace and comfort. Let your love shine through us.
In Jesus' name,
Amen
More prayers that I have posted before that you can pray for someone can be found here.
Paul prayed for the Ephesians in the bible, and it is a fantastic prayer to pray for someone who needs comfort.
Ephesians 3:14-21
New International Version (NIV)
A Prayer for the Ephesians 14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
The relationship that comes out of leaning on God through our suffering is one that couldn't be formed unless the suffering was present. It's a relationship that is deep, deeper than any other. He knows everything you are feeling and thinking, and He loves you. The relationship continues to grow because suffering doesn't just end. It comes in waves and rears it's ugly head at the most inopportune times. It isn't easy to get through hard times, but with God you know that you have the most powerful being on your side, and that is comforting to me.
When we are struggling, we are supposed to reach out to God. Often that can be a far fetched idea because we are hurting, and we feel like we are being punished for something. This is a perfectly normal reaction. God is a loving God, He doesn't punish us. He never said in the bible that it would be easy once we became a Christian. In fact, it can be harder. God tells us we will have struggles (See my previous post here about that.) Living up to a Christ-like life is impossible, only Jesus was perfect, but we are to strive to be like Him. God knows we are human, and He knows we are going to make mistakes. He expects us to handle our mistakes as Jesus showed us. That is, by showing grace, asking for forgiveness, and loving others.
The bible answers the question "Why do we have struggles?"
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Praise to the God of All Comfort 3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
Right there, in written text, is the answer to why we struggle and why we have pain. So that we can be comforted by God, and then take what we learned from Him and comfort those who also suffer. Our end goal is to comfort others. Certainly when we have gone through a situation, and know someone else going through a similar situation, we can sympathize and empathize with them. It teaches us compassion, and opens our hearts to pour out God's love on others.
We can't do anything for anyone else unless we accept the first part of of the answer. We must first be comforted by God. He can't do anything unless we open our hearts to Him, unless we ask Him to come into our lives and comfort us. So pray for His comfort. When you are struggling, ask Him to help you, to bring you peace with the situation. Ask Him to wrap His loving arms around you and hold you tight, ask Him to put people in your life daily that can be his earthly angels and who can help you physically feel his comfort. Pray for God to give you the strength to get through your struggle. That doesn't mean you are praying for your own will, but that you are praying to be at peace with God's will in your situation. Once you have prayed these things, be patient and open your eyes and ears. You will start to see how God works in your life each day. Once you see Him, praise Him for the things He is doing. It is easy to pray for God's help when you are in the midst of a trial, but He wants us to pray to Him when everything is going well too. God works in our lives, not just when we are asking for help, but every day. Praise Him when things are going well, and you will continue to see the blessings each day.
Once you have felt God's comfort and love, you can begin to comfort others. This doesn't mean you are no longer grieving or hurting. Sometimes the healing of ourselves comes through helping others. Look back at what He did to comfort you, and do those things for others. Comforting others doesn't have to be anything big. Maybe just a card in the mail, an email, a phone call, a meal, a ride in your car, or running an errand for them can help bring comfort. One of the things that comforts me is when someone prays for me. Not just telling me you will pray for me, but actually praying for me. The prayer I have received has been both spoken and written. If you are uncomfortable praying aloud for someone, write a card or email with the prayer (it can be short) that you said for them. It is so comforting to know the prayers that are being said. Having said this, I am writing a prayer for you as your read this......
Dear Lord,
Thank you for the opportunity to speak to you any time I want. Thank you for your written word that speaks to me and gives me so much hope. I lift up the person reading this right now. I pray that you would enter her/his heart and show her/him your love each day. I pray that you would bring peace and joy into her/his life. Lord, thank you for being such a loving God. I praise you for the life you have given us. Help us to make the most of this gift from you, and to learn from our struggles how we can help others. God, take away the hurt and the pain, and replace it with peace and comfort. Let your love shine through us.
In Jesus' name,
Amen
More prayers that I have posted before that you can pray for someone can be found here.
Paul prayed for the Ephesians in the bible, and it is a fantastic prayer to pray for someone who needs comfort.
Ephesians 3:14-21
New International Version (NIV)
A Prayer for the Ephesians 14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
The relationship that comes out of leaning on God through our suffering is one that couldn't be formed unless the suffering was present. It's a relationship that is deep, deeper than any other. He knows everything you are feeling and thinking, and He loves you. The relationship continues to grow because suffering doesn't just end. It comes in waves and rears it's ugly head at the most inopportune times. It isn't easy to get through hard times, but with God you know that you have the most powerful being on your side, and that is comforting to me.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
FAITH
I have a precious friend with an amazing Granny that she lost a little while back. Despite not being on earth anymore, her Granny continues to inspire others with her quotes and devotion to God. One of her fantastic quotes she used to tell others is that "Worrying is faith in reverse."
Stop and think about that for a minute. Worrying is faith in reverse. We worry about money, our health, our family, our future....and what good does that do? It keeps us from God. Worry is Satan's way of putting that doubt in our minds. Satan LOVES to do anything that would separate us from God, anything that would make us doubt for even a second that God is in control. Worrying is faith in reverse.
When we worry and say we trust God, it is like saying I believe God will take care of this, but just in case he can't, I'm worried. Can you imagine that!? There is nothing that God cannot do. So when we worry, we are not showing faith that God is in control of our situation.
Well, here is where the tricky part sets in. Let's just say for example that you pray and pray for someone to be healed, and they continue to get worse and suffer through the illness before passing away. Some people would say that God didn't answer their prayers. Well, who are we to say what God is doing? See, what I learned from my own Mother's disease and death is that God's will doesn't have to be mine. My mother taught me to look for God's answers every where. So when it doesn't go "my" way, then I should look for how God answered my prayer in another way. Often this is hard because it takes so much time to see the answers. Especially when you are hurting. Sometimes the answer is the lesson you learn through the hurt. Sometimes the grace that someone demonstrated through suffering is the example you learn from. Sometimes, you learn how to help others through the path of suffering. The one thing that is true, is that God is there always. He waits for us to ask Him to help. He finds no joy in our suffering, but he can see where it will lead us. Hind sight is where we finally see what he was trying to teach us.
Do I get scared? Yes. Do I feel anxious? Yes. Do I stress? Yes. Do I worry? Yes. But, I pray for God to take these feelings and replace them with faith. I will continue to open my eyes and pray for God to show me the answers to my prayers. And He will...... That is Faith.
Stop and think about that for a minute. Worrying is faith in reverse. We worry about money, our health, our family, our future....and what good does that do? It keeps us from God. Worry is Satan's way of putting that doubt in our minds. Satan LOVES to do anything that would separate us from God, anything that would make us doubt for even a second that God is in control. Worrying is faith in reverse.
When we worry and say we trust God, it is like saying I believe God will take care of this, but just in case he can't, I'm worried. Can you imagine that!? There is nothing that God cannot do. So when we worry, we are not showing faith that God is in control of our situation.
Well, here is where the tricky part sets in. Let's just say for example that you pray and pray for someone to be healed, and they continue to get worse and suffer through the illness before passing away. Some people would say that God didn't answer their prayers. Well, who are we to say what God is doing? See, what I learned from my own Mother's disease and death is that God's will doesn't have to be mine. My mother taught me to look for God's answers every where. So when it doesn't go "my" way, then I should look for how God answered my prayer in another way. Often this is hard because it takes so much time to see the answers. Especially when you are hurting. Sometimes the answer is the lesson you learn through the hurt. Sometimes the grace that someone demonstrated through suffering is the example you learn from. Sometimes, you learn how to help others through the path of suffering. The one thing that is true, is that God is there always. He waits for us to ask Him to help. He finds no joy in our suffering, but he can see where it will lead us. Hind sight is where we finally see what he was trying to teach us.
Do I get scared? Yes. Do I feel anxious? Yes. Do I stress? Yes. Do I worry? Yes. But, I pray for God to take these feelings and replace them with faith. I will continue to open my eyes and pray for God to show me the answers to my prayers. And He will...... That is Faith.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Dr. Oz and the NOCC
Dr. Oz got together with the NOCC (Nationoal Ovarian Cancer Coalition) and came up with a fantastic form for you to fill out and bring to your doctor if you are concerned about being tested. It is a great way to push your doctor to get the correct tests to check for ovarian cancer. Don't let your doctor talk you out of it, and if your doctor doesn't take you seriously, then you may need to visit another doctor. PAP smears and regular gynecological exams will not catch ovarian cancer in the early stages, so you need to know these symptoms!
Print the page from this link and bring it to your doctor. This critical one-sheet can help you detect the early warning signs of ovarian cancer.
Print the page from this link and bring it to your doctor. This critical one-sheet can help you detect the early warning signs of ovarian cancer.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
With the new month of September upon us, it's time to paint those toe nails teal and spread the word about ovarian cancer.
It has been 11 months since my precious Mother lost her 6 year battle with this disease, and I feel a need to spread the word more than ever. I don't expect everyone to be as passionate about this because not everyone has experienced the effects and battle that ovarian cancer causes you to have so closely. The truth is, it's on my mind all the time. If I can get the symptoms out there, and educate just one person who catches it early on (when it is most curable), then I will have done my job. We all know someone who has or has had cancer. Cancer seems to be so prevalent in our lives now. I often wonder why, but that isn't going to get any answers. It seems like just about everything "causes" cancer nowadays. What I do have is FAITH; Strong faith that God works in every situation and He is with us always. I have faith that He is going to use my Mother's fight to help others. I have faith that she touched many, many nurses, doctors, patients, family, and friends through her own faith that God would be glorified no matter what the situation.
So, please share the symptoms with all of the women in your life. You could help someone to discover symptoms early, and win the battle against this disease.
Start by sending a link to this blog to everyone you know. Post it on facebook. Paint your toe nails teal (there are tons of polishes out there, and you will get comments from others when they see you wearing it....it's a great way to explain why and tell them the symptoms), wear teal, or just tell someone about ovarian cancer.
You can order free cards to pass out to others from the Teal Toes website. Click here and spread the word. Read the section about teal toes cards and click on the "contact page" link. Fill out the form and wait for your cards to come to your door. It's easy and it's free! There is no excuse not to!
Ovarian Cancer Symptoms
Pelvic or abdominal pain or discomfort
Vague but persistent gastrointestinal upsets such as gas, nausea, and indigestion
Frequency and/or urgency in urination in the absence of an infection
Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
Pelvic and/or abdominal swelling, bloating, and/or feeling of fullness
Ongoing unusual fatigue
Unexplained changes in bowel habits
These symptoms are so common for women, that they are often over looked. If you have any of these symptoms, and they persist for more than two weeks, consult your physician. Ask your doctor for a combination pelvic/rectal exam, CA-125 blood test, and transvaginal ultrasound. Don't let them talk you out of it, and be persistent!
It has been 11 months since my precious Mother lost her 6 year battle with this disease, and I feel a need to spread the word more than ever. I don't expect everyone to be as passionate about this because not everyone has experienced the effects and battle that ovarian cancer causes you to have so closely. The truth is, it's on my mind all the time. If I can get the symptoms out there, and educate just one person who catches it early on (when it is most curable), then I will have done my job. We all know someone who has or has had cancer. Cancer seems to be so prevalent in our lives now. I often wonder why, but that isn't going to get any answers. It seems like just about everything "causes" cancer nowadays. What I do have is FAITH; Strong faith that God works in every situation and He is with us always. I have faith that He is going to use my Mother's fight to help others. I have faith that she touched many, many nurses, doctors, patients, family, and friends through her own faith that God would be glorified no matter what the situation.
So, please share the symptoms with all of the women in your life. You could help someone to discover symptoms early, and win the battle against this disease.
Start by sending a link to this blog to everyone you know. Post it on facebook. Paint your toe nails teal (there are tons of polishes out there, and you will get comments from others when they see you wearing it....it's a great way to explain why and tell them the symptoms), wear teal, or just tell someone about ovarian cancer.
You can order free cards to pass out to others from the Teal Toes website. Click here and spread the word. Read the section about teal toes cards and click on the "contact page" link. Fill out the form and wait for your cards to come to your door. It's easy and it's free! There is no excuse not to!
Ovarian Cancer Symptoms
Pelvic or abdominal pain or discomfort
Vague but persistent gastrointestinal upsets such as gas, nausea, and indigestion
Frequency and/or urgency in urination in the absence of an infection
Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
Pelvic and/or abdominal swelling, bloating, and/or feeling of fullness
Ongoing unusual fatigue
Unexplained changes in bowel habits
These symptoms are so common for women, that they are often over looked. If you have any of these symptoms, and they persist for more than two weeks, consult your physician. Ask your doctor for a combination pelvic/rectal exam, CA-125 blood test, and transvaginal ultrasound. Don't let them talk you out of it, and be persistent!
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Sprint for Life
The date for the annual "Sprint for Life" 5K run/walk at MD Anderson is quickly approaching. This year the race is on Saturday, May 7. You can sign up to register by clicking here.
This race benefits the Blanton-Davis Ovarian Cancer Research Program. Please do what you can to help raise money for awareness of this disease. Spread the word and let others know that it can effect any woman. Tell them about this blog so they can learn the symptoms and risks. I would love it if this race could be as big as the Susan Komen Race!
I will be racing this year in honor of my mother, Glynda Hinton, who lost her 6 year fight with ovarian cancer on October 14, 2010. I would love for you to join me, but if you can't attend the race, you can make a donation to my fund-raising page by clicking here.
Thank you for helping!
This race benefits the Blanton-Davis Ovarian Cancer Research Program. Please do what you can to help raise money for awareness of this disease. Spread the word and let others know that it can effect any woman. Tell them about this blog so they can learn the symptoms and risks. I would love it if this race could be as big as the Susan Komen Race!
I will be racing this year in honor of my mother, Glynda Hinton, who lost her 6 year fight with ovarian cancer on October 14, 2010. I would love for you to join me, but if you can't attend the race, you can make a donation to my fund-raising page by clicking here.
Thank you for helping!
Friday, February 25, 2011
Pure Joy in Suffering
I know the title of this post seems strange. It is something the bible tells us to have; Pure joy in suffering. For some reason this same verse has come across my eyes multiple times this week, so I think God is trying to tell me something.
James 1:2-4 says;
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
I need to share it, I need to learn from it, and I need to live it. So I am posting it here on this blog. Maybe it will give you a different point of view about what you are dealing with in your life right now. Sometimes we need to remember that our sufferings can be huge things, or even the common daily difficulties we deal with. They can be physical sufferings, mental sufferings, or sufferings of the heart.
When you look closely at the verse above, it tells us to have the outlook on our sufferings as a test of our faith. Wow. To think of how I handle some of my "simple" daily sufferings as a test of my faith makes me cringe. I often grumble through so many activities, instead of finding the joy.
If I think of these sufferings as a test of my faith though, and ask for God's help, His strength, His hands to uphold me, then my outlook changes. Part of what makes the sufferings we have so difficult is that we feel alone in our suffering. I have to remind myself constantly that I am not alone. God is with me. He wants me to ask for help, He wants me to rely on Him, and He wants me to seek answers in His word. He wants to fill that hole in my heart that nothing else will fill. Only then can my faith grow. Only then can I "be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
Another great verse that I have often tried to remember is Romans 5: 3-5.
Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character, and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
We are building our character, developing perseverance and hope, and growing our faith while we suffer. See, suffering can make us stronger! One of my dear friends told me to look every day for things that are going right and see them as a praise. Then take a moment to say a "praise prayer" to God, thanking Him for whatever that may be. Sometimes we have those days where our praise prayer can only be to thank Him for the air we breathe, and sometimes we can find so many things to praise Him for that it is hard to find the time to praise Him.
I challenge you to write down 5 things each day that you are thankful for. It just might change your outlook. I have started doing this in a book of my Mom's that she had for just this purpose. She had filled out a few of the pages, and I am adding to it. It really makes your day feel differently when you sit down and realize that you had more to be thankful for that day than you realized you did.
James 1:2-4 says;
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
I need to share it, I need to learn from it, and I need to live it. So I am posting it here on this blog. Maybe it will give you a different point of view about what you are dealing with in your life right now. Sometimes we need to remember that our sufferings can be huge things, or even the common daily difficulties we deal with. They can be physical sufferings, mental sufferings, or sufferings of the heart.
When you look closely at the verse above, it tells us to have the outlook on our sufferings as a test of our faith. Wow. To think of how I handle some of my "simple" daily sufferings as a test of my faith makes me cringe. I often grumble through so many activities, instead of finding the joy.
If I think of these sufferings as a test of my faith though, and ask for God's help, His strength, His hands to uphold me, then my outlook changes. Part of what makes the sufferings we have so difficult is that we feel alone in our suffering. I have to remind myself constantly that I am not alone. God is with me. He wants me to ask for help, He wants me to rely on Him, and He wants me to seek answers in His word. He wants to fill that hole in my heart that nothing else will fill. Only then can my faith grow. Only then can I "be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
Another great verse that I have often tried to remember is Romans 5: 3-5.
Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character, and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
We are building our character, developing perseverance and hope, and growing our faith while we suffer. See, suffering can make us stronger! One of my dear friends told me to look every day for things that are going right and see them as a praise. Then take a moment to say a "praise prayer" to God, thanking Him for whatever that may be. Sometimes we have those days where our praise prayer can only be to thank Him for the air we breathe, and sometimes we can find so many things to praise Him for that it is hard to find the time to praise Him.
I challenge you to write down 5 things each day that you are thankful for. It just might change your outlook. I have started doing this in a book of my Mom's that she had for just this purpose. She had filled out a few of the pages, and I am adding to it. It really makes your day feel differently when you sit down and realize that you had more to be thankful for that day than you realized you did.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
September is almost here! It is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Most people have heard of October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but not many know about September. Let's spread the word!
You can order free cards to pass out to others from the Teal Toes website. Click here http://www.tealtoes.org/spreadtheword%20spread and spread the word. Read the section about teal toes cards and click on the "contact page" link. Fill out the form and wait for your cards to come to your door. It's easy and it's free! There is no excuse not to!
You can order free cards to pass out to others from the Teal Toes website. Click here http://www.tealtoes.org/spreadtheword%20spread and spread the word. Read the section about teal toes cards and click on the "contact page" link. Fill out the form and wait for your cards to come to your door. It's easy and it's free! There is no excuse not to!
Ovarian Cancer Symptoms
- Pelvic or abdominal pain or discomfort
- Vague but persistent gastrointestinal upsets such as gas, nausea, and indigestion
- Frequency and/or urgency in urination in the absence of an infection
- Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
- Pelvic and/or abdominal swelling, bloating, and/or feeling of fullness
- Ongoing unusual fatigue
- Unexplained changes in bowel habits
If you have any of these symptoms, and the persist for more than two weeks, consult your physician. Ask your doctor for a combination pelvic/rectal exam, CA-125 blood test, and transvaginal ultrasound.
Monday, June 14, 2010
When, not if...
I read a verse from the bible today that I have read over and over, and one word really stuck out to me. The word "when" in this verse says so much.
Isaiah 43:2-3
"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;"
You see, God doesn't tell us that if we pray, if we believe, if we are "good Christians," then everything will be just wonderful. He tells us that we will have struggles, and life will be hard, but we can make it through if we just rely on Him, because He is with us. And is anything too hard for God? I don't believe so...
Isaiah 43:2-3
"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;"
You see, God doesn't tell us that if we pray, if we believe, if we are "good Christians," then everything will be just wonderful. He tells us that we will have struggles, and life will be hard, but we can make it through if we just rely on Him, because He is with us. And is anything too hard for God? I don't believe so...
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Great Devotional, I just had to share it.
This is from a daily devotional I get online called Proverbs 31 Ministries. I loved what it had to say, and I love the way it can change your thoughts and feelings when you think you are in a deep pit of despair. It is by Micca Monda Campbell, and it was May 24th's devotion. I didn't include the entire devotion, just the parts that spoke to me the most. I hope it touches you as well.
http://www.proverbs31.org/devo_print.php?d=2010-05-24
"When tragedy strikes, it causes some to question God's loyalty to care for us. In the Bible, God promises His care and protection. Why then does God seem distant when disaster strikes? Is He snoozing on the couch? Is He on a coffee break? Worse yet, perhaps God isn't the promise keeper we think He is. Or maybe we're not looking at the whole picture.
Yes, God promises to care for us. At the same time, He never promised we wouldn't face adversity. Christ warned, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33, NIV). You and I experience Christ's peace when we realize that peace isn't the absence of pressure. It's the presence of God in the midst of our chaos. (Italics and bold, mine)
As the pressure of stress and worry weigh on us, it's easy to forget or ignore God's peace. Often times it's us who distance ourselves from God - not the other way around. But when you and I quiet ourselves and acknowledge God's presence, peace washes over our anxieties. The truth is God is always near in times of trouble and he cares deeply about our pain.
You and I do not have a God who doesn't understand our pain and emotions. He knows. According to dictionary.com the Hebrew word for "to know" is "yadaa." In Greek, it is "yada" which means "a deep emotional experience; a bonding between two people when one truly feels the emotions of the other." That's our God, friends! He may be working for a higher purpose that we can't understand right now, but He is NOT detached from our pain. Let this truth calm your fears and soothe your heart. God knows; He's been there and He's there still.
Often the trials we mourn are really gateways to the good things we long for, like a deeper relationship with God, greater patience, and a compassion for others."
"Whatever God's plan is, we can rest assured it's a good one. While we wade through the process, we have His promised presence, provision, and understanding. Elisabeth Elliot states it this way, "It is God with whom we travel, and while He is the end of our journey, He is also at every stopping place."
Dear Lord, You are with me when I'm strong and when I'm weak. You never leave my side. Today and everyday help me to trust Your promises, experience Your presence, and feel Your love. In Jesus' Name, Amen."
http://www.proverbs31.org/devo_print.php?d=2010-05-24
"When tragedy strikes, it causes some to question God's loyalty to care for us. In the Bible, God promises His care and protection. Why then does God seem distant when disaster strikes? Is He snoozing on the couch? Is He on a coffee break? Worse yet, perhaps God isn't the promise keeper we think He is. Or maybe we're not looking at the whole picture.
Yes, God promises to care for us. At the same time, He never promised we wouldn't face adversity. Christ warned, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33, NIV). You and I experience Christ's peace when we realize that peace isn't the absence of pressure. It's the presence of God in the midst of our chaos. (Italics and bold, mine)
As the pressure of stress and worry weigh on us, it's easy to forget or ignore God's peace. Often times it's us who distance ourselves from God - not the other way around. But when you and I quiet ourselves and acknowledge God's presence, peace washes over our anxieties. The truth is God is always near in times of trouble and he cares deeply about our pain.
You and I do not have a God who doesn't understand our pain and emotions. He knows. According to dictionary.com the Hebrew word for "to know" is "yadaa." In Greek, it is "yada" which means "a deep emotional experience; a bonding between two people when one truly feels the emotions of the other." That's our God, friends! He may be working for a higher purpose that we can't understand right now, but He is NOT detached from our pain. Let this truth calm your fears and soothe your heart. God knows; He's been there and He's there still.
Often the trials we mourn are really gateways to the good things we long for, like a deeper relationship with God, greater patience, and a compassion for others."
"Whatever God's plan is, we can rest assured it's a good one. While we wade through the process, we have His promised presence, provision, and understanding. Elisabeth Elliot states it this way, "It is God with whom we travel, and while He is the end of our journey, He is also at every stopping place."
Dear Lord, You are with me when I'm strong and when I'm weak. You never leave my side. Today and everyday help me to trust Your promises, experience Your presence, and feel Your love. In Jesus' Name, Amen."
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Sprint for Life
Ok, as promised the Sprint for Life walk/run is next Saturday, May 1. Here is a link to the registration.
http://www.mdanderson.org/how-you-can-help/community-events/sprint-for-life/index.html
I met with my doctor last week, and she said it probably would not be a good idea for me to participate this year. So, I'll be there in spirit!! Next year, you can bet I'll be running for sure! Please do what you can to help raise money for awareness of this disease. Spread the word and let others know that it can effect any woman. Tell them about this blog so they can learn the symptoms and risks.
Also, you can help to raise money by donating here:
http://www.firstgiving.com/cathygiffhorn
http://www.mdanderson.org/how-you-can-help/community-events/sprint-for-life/index.html
I met with my doctor last week, and she said it probably would not be a good idea for me to participate this year. So, I'll be there in spirit!! Next year, you can bet I'll be running for sure! Please do what you can to help raise money for awareness of this disease. Spread the word and let others know that it can effect any woman. Tell them about this blog so they can learn the symptoms and risks.
Also, you can help to raise money by donating here:
http://www.firstgiving.com/cathygiffhorn
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Save the date!!
The 13th annual Sprint for Life 5K run/walk and Sprint for Sprouts kids' Run is scheduled for Saturday, May 1, 2010 on the campus of M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. I'll post a link to registration as soon as it is available. I'll be walking this race in honor of my mother, despite being nearly 8 months pregnant, and I hope you will join me!!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
This is from the FORCE website (www.facingourrisk.org). If you are a person with a risk of cancer, check out the link below to find out how to be proactive towards your risk.
"The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) is a consortium of cancer centers with experts in management of hereditary cancer. Each year, the NCCN updates their risk management guidelines for people with hereditary risk for cancer, based on the latest research.
Current NCCN guidelines (for ovarian cancer), which dictate the standard of care for cancer surveillance in high-risk patients, include:
"The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) is a consortium of cancer centers with experts in management of hereditary cancer. Each year, the NCCN updates their risk management guidelines for people with hereditary risk for cancer, based on the latest research.
Current NCCN guidelines (for ovarian cancer), which dictate the standard of care for cancer surveillance in high-risk patients, include:
Concurrent transvaginal ultrasound with color doppler
CA-125
pelvic exam
Friday, October 16, 2009
Fantastic Prayers
My dear friend Susan sent me an email from her daily devotional website and it had these fantastic prayers on it. I just had to share them! Abba is another way of saying Papa. Isn't it wonderful to think of God as your Papa when you talk to Him?
(From "The Father's Business" a weekly devotional by Sylvia Gunter)
All of us at some time need to crawl up on Papa's lap. At those times, we understand best what it means to come to Him as little children. Pray this prayer for someone who may be feeling small, unloved, and overwhelmed. If you need it, fill your name in the blank and receive it for yourself.
Pray this way: Abba, let Your precious one ___(name the person)___ know that Your eye is on them today.
Abba's Presence: Go before _______ with Your lovingkindness, grace, and truth, and go behind them with extra portions of Your protection. You hold them securely in Your safe hand. Fill their heart, household, and everything around them with Your mighty presence.
Abba's Promises: May every step they take today be on the solid footing of Your Word and Your promises, which are "Yes" in Christ and "Amen" to the glory of God (2 Cor. 1:20). Generously give _______ wisdom and keen discernment in all their ways today. Give them direction and clarity of thought moment by moment. For every need they have today, You are the I am, more than sufficient in Your eternal supply.
Abba's Defense: For _______, hold up Jesus, the armor of light, especially the mighty shield of faith to strategically intercept every fiery dart of the accuser. Allow none to hit its intended mark, so that all of them fall harmless to the ground. Bear witness to them that they are hidden in Christ in You while they truly seek You with all their heart. Bind the spirits of unbelief and confusion which seek to steal, kill, and destroy their peace. Hide them in Your great peace, mercy, and enabling. Forbid the evil one from carrying out any harassment or schemes against their total victory today. Demolish the strongholds that have come against them. Let them sense that angels are securing the perimeters of Your work in their lives, work, home, and family. Lift and carry away all burdens laid upon them. Give them discernment to know and grace to discharge the intercessory prayer and intercessory living assignments You give them. Let the yoke of Jesus be well-fitting.
Abba's Love: Set _________ as a seal upon Your heart. Reveal to them how much You love them and how committed You are to them. With the balm of Your love, penetrate deep into old wounds, all prior programming, and pockets of resistance, to soften all the places they have walled off in denial, self-protection or unforgiveness. Bind to them all the freedom that is in their inheritance in Christ Jesus. Speak to them with personal words of hope, strength, abiding rest of soul, grace, joy, encouragement, and victory.
Abba's Purposes For The Future: Let _______ know that the best is yet to be. Your mighty work and Your purposes will stand. Let them run today the race appointed for them with joy. Assure them that You are walking with them through all circumstances and tests, things which everybody knows, things that some people know, and things that nobody knows but You. You have a future and a hope for them that You have chosen, a destiny in keeping with Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:28, and Ephesians 2:10. Be strong in them to speak Your words and do Your works through their life in their very particular place, touching very particularly appointed people. You are weaving all the strands of the tapestry of Your purposes for their life, as You are preparing them for things which we do not know now. Let them stand secure, confident, and strong, for You are upholding their cause.
Blessing: Heavenly Father, give _______ more and more the heart of an intercessor and worshiper to lift up Jesus in every thought and intent of their hearts and every word of their mouths. Thank You for the sweet fragrance of Jesus that they are. Abba, _______ belongs to You, and Your Spirit inhabits them. Increasingly draw _______ into deeper intimacy with You, looking to You alone, letting Your fragrance fill the room wherever they are, a sweet aroma of life to many. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen.
(From "The Father's Business" a weekly devotional by Sylvia Gunter)
All of us at some time need to crawl up on Papa's lap. At those times, we understand best what it means to come to Him as little children. Pray this prayer for someone who may be feeling small, unloved, and overwhelmed. If you need it, fill your name in the blank and receive it for yourself.
Pray this way: Abba, let Your precious one ___(name the person)___ know that Your eye is on them today.
Abba's Presence: Go before _______ with Your lovingkindness, grace, and truth, and go behind them with extra portions of Your protection. You hold them securely in Your safe hand. Fill their heart, household, and everything around them with Your mighty presence.
Abba's Promises: May every step they take today be on the solid footing of Your Word and Your promises, which are "Yes" in Christ and "Amen" to the glory of God (2 Cor. 1:20). Generously give _______ wisdom and keen discernment in all their ways today. Give them direction and clarity of thought moment by moment. For every need they have today, You are the I am, more than sufficient in Your eternal supply.
Abba's Defense: For _______, hold up Jesus, the armor of light, especially the mighty shield of faith to strategically intercept every fiery dart of the accuser. Allow none to hit its intended mark, so that all of them fall harmless to the ground. Bear witness to them that they are hidden in Christ in You while they truly seek You with all their heart. Bind the spirits of unbelief and confusion which seek to steal, kill, and destroy their peace. Hide them in Your great peace, mercy, and enabling. Forbid the evil one from carrying out any harassment or schemes against their total victory today. Demolish the strongholds that have come against them. Let them sense that angels are securing the perimeters of Your work in their lives, work, home, and family. Lift and carry away all burdens laid upon them. Give them discernment to know and grace to discharge the intercessory prayer and intercessory living assignments You give them. Let the yoke of Jesus be well-fitting.
Abba's Love: Set _________ as a seal upon Your heart. Reveal to them how much You love them and how committed You are to them. With the balm of Your love, penetrate deep into old wounds, all prior programming, and pockets of resistance, to soften all the places they have walled off in denial, self-protection or unforgiveness. Bind to them all the freedom that is in their inheritance in Christ Jesus. Speak to them with personal words of hope, strength, abiding rest of soul, grace, joy, encouragement, and victory.
Abba's Purposes For The Future: Let _______ know that the best is yet to be. Your mighty work and Your purposes will stand. Let them run today the race appointed for them with joy. Assure them that You are walking with them through all circumstances and tests, things which everybody knows, things that some people know, and things that nobody knows but You. You have a future and a hope for them that You have chosen, a destiny in keeping with Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:28, and Ephesians 2:10. Be strong in them to speak Your words and do Your works through their life in their very particular place, touching very particularly appointed people. You are weaving all the strands of the tapestry of Your purposes for their life, as You are preparing them for things which we do not know now. Let them stand secure, confident, and strong, for You are upholding their cause.
Blessing: Heavenly Father, give _______ more and more the heart of an intercessor and worshiper to lift up Jesus in every thought and intent of their hearts and every word of their mouths. Thank You for the sweet fragrance of Jesus that they are. Abba, _______ belongs to You, and Your Spirit inhabits them. Increasingly draw _______ into deeper intimacy with You, looking to You alone, letting Your fragrance fill the room wherever they are, a sweet aroma of life to many. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen.
Cleaning for a Reason
What a fantastic idea! Spread the news about this wonderful website. If you know any woman currently undergoing Chemo, please pass the word to her that there is a cleaning service that provides FREE housecleaning - 1 time per month for 4 months while she is in treatment. All she has to do is sign up and have her doctor fax a note confirming the treatment. Cleaning for a Reason will have a participating maid service in her zip code area arrange for the service.
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