When Facing a Brutal Adversary

It is a rough time for our family right now. Only a few months ago, we lost our dear Elizabeth to cancer. This week cancer has stolen another loved one – a beloved brother and uncle. But cancer’s attack doesn’t end there. We also learned this past week that my husband’s friend since childhood has stage 4 cancer with only a few months to live.

I’ve got to say, I want to scream. I want to rant. I have cried buckets of tears over the losses and impending loss.

In Elizabeth’s funeral message the pastor spoke of cancer being a brutal adversary. It can destroy our song. But he didn’t stop there. He suggested that, rather than let the adversary steal our joy or our hope, we need our song more than ever. We need to sing the praises of the One who gives us life and sustains us.

How do we do that?

It is not something that we can accomplish on our own. It is times like these where we need to reach out to our loving Saviour. He promises to be with us, to uplift us, and to sustain us. When the hurt and pain want to overwhelm us, we are not alone.

It’s hard to think about praising God in the midst of sorrow but it really makes a difference. Focusing on all that God has done for us, especially through the saving work of Christ’s death and resurrection, gives us hope and peace.

I could share lots of thoughts with you but God’s Word says it best:

“The Lord is close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” (Psalm 73:26)

“He heals the broken hearted and binds up their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3)

“Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him.” (1 Thessalonians 4:13-14)

“And God shall wipe away all the tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” (Revelation 21:4)

“So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice and no one will take away your joy.” (John 16:22)

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in Me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.” (John 14:1-2)

“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)

Reflecting on God’s Word bring comfort and peace. When sorrow strikes, the Holy Spirit is working in our lives to help us through.

I pray God’s Word brings you comfort today – wherever or whoever you are.