I was recently reminded of Paul’s letter to the Christians at Philippi (aka the book Philippians in the Bible). Paul wrote this while imprisoned in Rome, yet it is full of love, joy, gratitude and hope.
One part that resonated with me was “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4v.6). He goes on to say that he has learned to be content whatever his situation. This is such perfect advice – especially for those of us with cancer or in some other life-changing situation.
Certainly faith gives me real calmness over my condition. Only God knows what the outcome will be, and I am happy to accept my fate, whatever it might be. In the meantime, I do everything I can in terms of diet, exercise and lifestyle to be as healthy as I can be and to feel as well as I can. Whereas some people are anxious about what the results of their scans will be, I simply see them as indicators of how things are going and whether I need to try something else. Accepting one’s fate certainly doesn’t mean being resigned to it and giving up. I am reminded of the hymn “Fight the good fight” and I think I shall do a blog post on that. It is very apt and very stirring.
I wish this peace of mind on everyone. What is so wonderful is that it is freely available through faith in Jesus Christ. “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” (Matthew 7v.7-8). Throughout this cancer episode I have come to believe that mental and spiritual health are more important than physical health. I would like all three of course, but am really grateful for what I do have.