Glen is being moved to the hospice today and the family are travelling over to Liverpool to say their good byes. In the midst of this sorrow God is still good and there are comforts for both Glen and them even in this situation. Whilst Glen is unable to talk and is paralysed on his right side he is more settled and calmer than he has been and has enjoyed having the bible read to him and a visit from his pastor. It is a great reassurance to know that he has hope even now.
I would ask you to pray today that the transfer goes well and does not cause any discomfort and that Glen settles quickly at the hospice, pray too for the family on what is going to be a very hard day for them, pray that they would know God's comfort and his strength.
Romans 8v31-39 says: "What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then can condemn? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written:
“For your sake we face death all day long;
we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
We are confident as Glen enters his final days that even now his and our Saviour is in heaven interceding for Glen, for the family and for us. We are confident that nothing (not paralysis, not cancer, and not death) shall separate Glen or his family from the love of God that they have experienced, are experiencing, and will experience in Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Father God we pray for Glen this afternoon, asking that the transfer to the hospice would go well, and that he would quickly be comfortable and at peace there. Thank you that even now your word means so much to him and we ask that he would continue to treasure your promises. We pray for the family today as they go to say their good byes to a loved son and brother who has blessed them, encouraged them, spurred them on and so often made them laugh. Father we know that those who hope in you grieve differently but we still grieve and we pray that you would be with them as they grieve and say good bye today. Father, when that is done we would ask that you show mercy to our brother and friend and that he would suffer no more.
Tuesday, 31 May 2011
Monday, 30 May 2011
Hope in a Hopeless situation
Dear all, I've been asked to write this blog by Glen's mum. The weekend has been hard, Glen had another fit and has been in hospital since, he has not really recovered from this second fit and has not been coherent since. Yesterday a scan on Glen's brain revealed a number of additional tumours, including a large one at the front of his brain. These tumours mean that no further treatment is possible and in all probability that Glen does not have long left until God calls to take him to be with him.
Glen is sleeping a lot, but seems to like to know that there are people in the room with him. They are waiting for a hospice space to be organised so that he can be moved. These are words that many of us had hoped and prayed that we would never have to write or to read, but they are not words without hope.
The Apostle Paul in Romans 5:1-11 "1Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. 3Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
6You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 7Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. 8But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
9Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! 10For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! 11 Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation."
This is the hope that Glen, Anne, Ruth and the family have in this situation. It is not a vague hope but one grounded in God showing his love for them in sending his Son Jesus Christ to die for Glen, so that he is made right with God (justified) can enjoy a relationship with God (reconciled) and a certain hope that he will see God face to face healed and liberated from every physical ailment. The cancer will not win God will.
I would ask you to pray this evening for Glen, that God in his mercy would ensure that he does not suffer and take him home. I would ask you to pray to for Anne, Ruth and the rest of the family, that they would know the certainty of their hope in Christ.
I know Glen would want me to ask this of those for whom death is a terrifying thing. What is your hope? You can know the same hope that Glen knows by trusting Glen's saviour for yourself.
Prayer: Father God we come to you with heavy to hearts and bring our loved friend Glen to you. We pray that you would be merciful to him and take him home to be with you. We pray for his family may they know your strength at this time we ask, may the hope that Glen has and they share sustain them. And may they know your love for them by your Spirit and through your people. Amen.
Glen is sleeping a lot, but seems to like to know that there are people in the room with him. They are waiting for a hospice space to be organised so that he can be moved. These are words that many of us had hoped and prayed that we would never have to write or to read, but they are not words without hope.
The Apostle Paul in Romans 5:1-11 "1Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. 3Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
6You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 7Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. 8But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
9Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! 10For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! 11 Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation."
This is the hope that Glen, Anne, Ruth and the family have in this situation. It is not a vague hope but one grounded in God showing his love for them in sending his Son Jesus Christ to die for Glen, so that he is made right with God (justified) can enjoy a relationship with God (reconciled) and a certain hope that he will see God face to face healed and liberated from every physical ailment. The cancer will not win God will.
I would ask you to pray this evening for Glen, that God in his mercy would ensure that he does not suffer and take him home. I would ask you to pray to for Anne, Ruth and the rest of the family, that they would know the certainty of their hope in Christ.
I know Glen would want me to ask this of those for whom death is a terrifying thing. What is your hope? You can know the same hope that Glen knows by trusting Glen's saviour for yourself.
Prayer: Father God we come to you with heavy to hearts and bring our loved friend Glen to you. We pray that you would be merciful to him and take him home to be with you. We pray for his family may they know your strength at this time we ask, may the hope that Glen has and they share sustain them. And may they know your love for them by your Spirit and through your people. Amen.
Saturday, 28 May 2011
Saturday 28th May - A journey
Hi this is Glen's mum posting the blog. Glen came out of hospital this morning, after Anne staying with him. They were both tired and ready for the comforts of their own home and bed. Majority of the day has been sleeping, showering and bathing. This afternoon one of Glen's very good friends, Niall, has called into visit him.
Anne has just called me to say that she left Glen sleeping upstairs, went up to check on him and he was having another fit. So off to hospital again. The Doctor has sent him for a another brain scan and they are concerned again that something is happening.
Bible Reading - Psalm 62 Vs 5 -8 - 'Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I shall not be shaken. My salvation and my honour depend on God, he is my mighty rock; my refuge. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge' As we walk this journey with Glen and Anne pray that God would be both theirs and ours rock and salvation.
Pray - Please pray especially for Anne as she loves, cares and supports Glen. Pray for her as she has to make decisions for both of them whilst Glen is ill. Give thanks that God brought them together and how they illuminate God's love for us through their marriage. Pray for wisdom for the medical staff as they treat Glen. Pray that they would also be sensitive to Anne's needs and health. Pray for Glen's health, which over the last few weeks has changed. Pray for the Dr's meeting on Tuesday. As his mum please pray for both Glen and Anne's family as we walk this journey with them. Pray that we would encourage and bear with one another.
Hi this is Glen's mum posting the blog. Glen came out of hospital this morning, after Anne staying with him. They were both tired and ready for the comforts of their own home and bed. Majority of the day has been sleeping, showering and bathing. This afternoon one of Glen's very good friends, Niall, has called into visit him.
Anne has just called me to say that she left Glen sleeping upstairs, went up to check on him and he was having another fit. So off to hospital again. The Doctor has sent him for a another brain scan and they are concerned again that something is happening.
Bible Reading - Psalm 62 Vs 5 -8 - 'Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I shall not be shaken. My salvation and my honour depend on God, he is my mighty rock; my refuge. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge' As we walk this journey with Glen and Anne pray that God would be both theirs and ours rock and salvation.
Pray - Please pray especially for Anne as she loves, cares and supports Glen. Pray for her as she has to make decisions for both of them whilst Glen is ill. Give thanks that God brought them together and how they illuminate God's love for us through their marriage. Pray for wisdom for the medical staff as they treat Glen. Pray that they would also be sensitive to Anne's needs and health. Pray for Glen's health, which over the last few weeks has changed. Pray for the Dr's meeting on Tuesday. As his mum please pray for both Glen and Anne's family as we walk this journey with them. Pray that we would encourage and bear with one another.
Friday, 27 May 2011
Friday 27th May - God is listening
Hi this is Glen's mum writing the blog tonight. It has been another difficult day for Glen and Anne. This morning Glen had a small fit and Anne rang the ambulance to take him to hospital, as he was slow in coming around. There was concern that this meant that his brain, which had been stable a few weeks ago, had changed and that he might also have a chest infection. The Dr's sent him for a chest x-ray and for a brain scan.
God has yet again answered our prayers as the brain scan shows no difference to the one undertaken a few weeks ago. Glen is staying in hospital overnight, and they have very kindly arranged for him to be moved to a side room so that Anne can stay with him tonight. If he has no further fits then he should be able to come out tomorrow. They are also starting him on meds to make sure he has no further fits.
The last few weeks has been quite a rollercoaster for Glen and Anne, but through the fiery furnace walk they have kept God at the centre of their lives and He has been faithful in answered their prayers especially for medical support this week.
I know that they count it a priviledged that so many people are walking this journey with them, and the prayers that are offered on their behalf.
Isaiah 54 vs 10 reminds us that even though everything around us seems to be difficult God still loves us and shows us compassion. 'Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfalling love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed. says the the Lord who has compassion upon you" God's love, hope and promises are the one constant in our lives.
Bible Verses - Psalm 23.
Prayer:- Give thanks for Glen and Anne's faithful witness of God's love, hope and promises. Give thanks that through this fiery furnace we can see God at work. Pray for a restful night for Glen and Anne. Pray for the meeting with the Dr on Tuesday. Pray for the medical staff Glen and Anne meet, that as in 1 Peter 3 they would always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks them the reason for the hope that they have. Pray for Anne as she loves, supports and cares for Glen.
Hi this is Glen's mum writing the blog tonight. It has been another difficult day for Glen and Anne. This morning Glen had a small fit and Anne rang the ambulance to take him to hospital, as he was slow in coming around. There was concern that this meant that his brain, which had been stable a few weeks ago, had changed and that he might also have a chest infection. The Dr's sent him for a chest x-ray and for a brain scan.
God has yet again answered our prayers as the brain scan shows no difference to the one undertaken a few weeks ago. Glen is staying in hospital overnight, and they have very kindly arranged for him to be moved to a side room so that Anne can stay with him tonight. If he has no further fits then he should be able to come out tomorrow. They are also starting him on meds to make sure he has no further fits.
The last few weeks has been quite a rollercoaster for Glen and Anne, but through the fiery furnace walk they have kept God at the centre of their lives and He has been faithful in answered their prayers especially for medical support this week.
I know that they count it a priviledged that so many people are walking this journey with them, and the prayers that are offered on their behalf.
Isaiah 54 vs 10 reminds us that even though everything around us seems to be difficult God still loves us and shows us compassion. 'Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfalling love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed. says the the Lord who has compassion upon you" God's love, hope and promises are the one constant in our lives.
Bible Verses - Psalm 23.
Prayer:- Give thanks for Glen and Anne's faithful witness of God's love, hope and promises. Give thanks that through this fiery furnace we can see God at work. Pray for a restful night for Glen and Anne. Pray for the meeting with the Dr on Tuesday. Pray for the medical staff Glen and Anne meet, that as in 1 Peter 3 they would always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks them the reason for the hope that they have. Pray for Anne as she loves, supports and cares for Glen.
Thursday, 26 May 2011
Thursday 26th May - Trust in Him
Good evening we have had a mixed day and will continue to be on our knees praying for the consultancy meeting we are having on Tuesday. Anne has popped out here and there and we also had a visit from the district nurse to see how we are going. The sleeping tablets I have been taking have meant I have been sleeping for most of the day too, therefore we going to stop these so please pray for sleep. I have been stronger physically in lots of ways but still need prayer to sleep well and be able to deal with what every day life brings.
Psalm 13 says 'Look on me and answer, Lord my God. Give light to my eyes or I will sleep in death, and my enemy will say 'I have overcome Him" and and my foes will rejoice when I fall. But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing the Lord's praise for He has been good to me.' Praise the Lord we can always trust in Him.
Verse for today: Psalm 13
Prayer for today: Pray for sleep and continued strength. Pray for God's will to be done at the meeting on Tuesday and for the right medication to be available. Thank God He is our sustainer and rock. Pray for our families too.
Psalm 13 says 'Look on me and answer, Lord my God. Give light to my eyes or I will sleep in death, and my enemy will say 'I have overcome Him" and and my foes will rejoice when I fall. But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing the Lord's praise for He has been good to me.' Praise the Lord we can always trust in Him.
Verse for today: Psalm 13
Prayer for today: Pray for sleep and continued strength. Pray for God's will to be done at the meeting on Tuesday and for the right medication to be available. Thank God He is our sustainer and rock. Pray for our families too.
Wednesday, 25 May 2011
Wednesday 25th May - Praise Him
Good evening we have had a slightly improved day. We both slept well and ended up having 8 hours sleep. We have then taken things slowly and we had a visit from a cancer consultant to see how best to control the pain I have been having. This afternoon I have slept lots, watched TV and generally tried to relax. Anne has once again pottered around the house and looked after me very well. We would really value prayer again for the pain treatment we have been given and for us to sleep well again.
Psalm 9 says 'I will praise you, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will tell of all you marvelous works. I will glad and rejoice in you: I will sing praise to your name, O most high. Have mercy on me O Lord, consider my trouble from those who hate me, You who lift me up from the gates of death. That I may tell of all your praise. In the gates of the daughter of Zion. I will rejoice in your salvation'. We are to sing to the Lord and put our trust in Him. He is our shield and defender and walks with us as our strength.
Verse of the day: Proverbs 3 v 5-7
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for all He has done for us and we have a place of refuge in Him. Praise the Lord I have had help to get the pain under control and ask him to continue to aid us in our sleep and physical state. Pray for the drug treatments to be available and for God to open the door(s) He wishes us to walk through. Pray for our families and for the Lord to be their strength. Pray for people to come to faith in Christ.
Psalm 9 says 'I will praise you, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will tell of all you marvelous works. I will glad and rejoice in you: I will sing praise to your name, O most high. Have mercy on me O Lord, consider my trouble from those who hate me, You who lift me up from the gates of death. That I may tell of all your praise. In the gates of the daughter of Zion. I will rejoice in your salvation'. We are to sing to the Lord and put our trust in Him. He is our shield and defender and walks with us as our strength.
Verse of the day: Proverbs 3 v 5-7
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for all He has done for us and we have a place of refuge in Him. Praise the Lord I have had help to get the pain under control and ask him to continue to aid us in our sleep and physical state. Pray for the drug treatments to be available and for God to open the door(s) He wishes us to walk through. Pray for our families and for the Lord to be their strength. Pray for people to come to faith in Christ.
Tuesday, 24 May 2011
Tuesday 24th May: Everlasting hope
Good evening we have had a very difficult day and one in which the cancer seemed to really take hold of my body in numerous ways. We both did not sleep well; with us being awake at 1,3,5 and then eventually getting a few hours of sleep at the end. Our community Macmillan nurse came today and has increased my pain relief, she has also arranged for a consultant from the hospice to visit us tomorrow. Hopefully this will help us get the right level of medication, so I am more comfortable. My mum came for the day which was really nice and a good support.
Peter in his first book declares to the world 'Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.' Thank the Lord we have an eternal hope.
Verse for the day: 1 Peter 1:3
Prayer for the day: Please pray for wisdom tomorrow as we review my medication. Pray for sleep this evening and renewed strength for tomorrow. Pray for our families as they walk this difficult road with us.
Peter in his first book declares to the world 'Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.' Thank the Lord we have an eternal hope.
Verse for the day: 1 Peter 1:3
Prayer for the day: Please pray for wisdom tomorrow as we review my medication. Pray for sleep this evening and renewed strength for tomorrow. Pray for our families as they walk this difficult road with us.
Monday, 23 May 2011
Monday 23rd May - A move in the right direction
Good evening. We have had a much better day today and one where I am feeling much better and stronger. I slept much better than I have over the last few days and this helped me to be much more refreshed and relaxed when I awoke. I have enjoyed a body strengthening day and friends came around to visit this afternoon. I have also been out for a bit of light retail therapy. Anne has been out here and there and was also entertaining our guests. Praise the Lord I am feeling better just need to be on our knees asking for this blessing to continue.
Paul says in Romans 8 v 28-29 'and we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. For God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brothers or sisters. We were chosen by and God and for the service of His name amazing. God loves us so much, even death on a cross.
Verse of the day: 1 John 1 v 4-10
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for my return of strength and ask Him for this to continue due to His mercy. Pray for news from the hospital and how we are going to move forwards. Pray for sleep and a continued reliance upon the Lord. Pray for me to be able to lead and go to target camp next week. Pray for the upholding of our families. Pray for us having eyes only for Christ and for Him being the rock on which we build all things.
Paul says in Romans 8 v 28-29 'and we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. For God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brothers or sisters. We were chosen by and God and for the service of His name amazing. God loves us so much, even death on a cross.
Verse of the day: 1 John 1 v 4-10
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for my return of strength and ask Him for this to continue due to His mercy. Pray for news from the hospital and how we are going to move forwards. Pray for sleep and a continued reliance upon the Lord. Pray for me to be able to lead and go to target camp next week. Pray for the upholding of our families. Pray for us having eyes only for Christ and for Him being the rock on which we build all things.
Sunday, 22 May 2011
Sunday 22nd May - Strength for each day
We have had a very difficult day. I awoke after a moderate amount of sleep but yet still felt drained and tired. I have spent most of the day on the sofa falling in and out of consciousness and trying to get some rest. Anne has been to Church and out with friends which she needed and helped with her frame of mind. I have been sick this evening and in pain and so we had to call out the local GP and try and sort out my pain relief, sleep and general physical state.
All this makes life incredibly difficult and hard to deal with each day. Our mind frame is such that we know God is in control but we most certainly don't rely on our strength but that of the Lord. Psalm 20 v 6 says 'Now I know that the Lord saves His anointed; He will answer him from His Holy Heaven with the saving strength of His right hand.' Isaiah 12v2 also declares this saying 'Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; for Yahweh, the Lord is my strength and song. He will also become my salvation.' We have to trust even in the depths of despair as He is the only strength we need or will help.
Verse of the day: 2 Corinthians 1 v 1-5
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord His strength allows us to walk through the darkest valley and to see our salvation. Pray for the cancer to be healed from my body and for the Lord to restore it to its former state. Pray for our bodies to be physically upheld and to be made stronger by the hand of the Lord. Pray for sleep. Pray for our families and for the Lord to be their strength also.
All this makes life incredibly difficult and hard to deal with each day. Our mind frame is such that we know God is in control but we most certainly don't rely on our strength but that of the Lord. Psalm 20 v 6 says 'Now I know that the Lord saves His anointed; He will answer him from His Holy Heaven with the saving strength of His right hand.' Isaiah 12v2 also declares this saying 'Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; for Yahweh, the Lord is my strength and song. He will also become my salvation.' We have to trust even in the depths of despair as He is the only strength we need or will help.
Verse of the day: 2 Corinthians 1 v 1-5
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord His strength allows us to walk through the darkest valley and to see our salvation. Pray for the cancer to be healed from my body and for the Lord to restore it to its former state. Pray for our bodies to be physically upheld and to be made stronger by the hand of the Lord. Pray for sleep. Pray for our families and for the Lord to be their strength also.
Saturday, 21 May 2011
Saturday 21st May - The love of God
Good evening. It has been a day of what you would call rest. I did not sleep well last night at all once again getting just 4 hours sleep and so making my body feel very rough. This meant I took a sleeping tablet resulting in sleeping from about 1pm until 7 on and on and somehow when your body gets the rest it has to feel worse before it gets better. Anne has caught up with people on the phone and well generally been amazing looking after me. Please can you pray for both of these issues as they do prevent us from doing so much, especially sleep.
1 John 4 v 16-17 says 'and so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love, lives in God and God in them. This is how love is made complete among us so that we may have confidence on the day of judgement: in this world we are like Jesus. In all things if we have the love of God we need not fear and can have confidence in Christ our Lord.
Verse of the day: Romans 8 v 38-39
Prayer of the day: Pray for sleep and for me to be physically well enough to complete each day. Pray for us to know more about the treatment and for God's will in it all. Pray for our families and how they deal with the news. Pray for our hearts to look to Christ in all things.
1 John 4 v 16-17 says 'and so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love, lives in God and God in them. This is how love is made complete among us so that we may have confidence on the day of judgement: in this world we are like Jesus. In all things if we have the love of God we need not fear and can have confidence in Christ our Lord.
Verse of the day: Romans 8 v 38-39
Prayer of the day: Pray for sleep and for me to be physically well enough to complete each day. Pray for us to know more about the treatment and for God's will in it all. Pray for our families and how they deal with the news. Pray for our hearts to look to Christ in all things.
Friday, 20 May 2011
Friday 20th May - Merciful Prayer
Good evening. We have had what has probably been in some ways the hardest day in this process so far. I did not sleep to the best standard only getting 5 hours sleep due to back pain. This then had knock on effects on Anne and how my body coped when I awoke. We have rested this morning and completed some menial tasks around the house. Anne has been to Bridge to sort out camp areas and meet with a friend. I had an afternoon to catch up TV. Late in the afternoon we received a call from the hospital. This was to inform us that most of the doors being pushed to gain the drugs needed have been closed and they were not sure if any of them would be opened, so Mr Heggarty there may be no options left.
This left us a bit drained and battered but there is still hope! Your probably sat their saying, what! What hope! Well pick up the word of the Lord and from Genesis to Revelation there is hope and it NEVER fades. 1 Corinthians 13 says 'and now these 3 remain; faith, hope and love...' 2 Corinthians then says 'therefore we do not lose heart, though outwardly we are wasting away yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all'. We have an amazing hope in our Lord Jesus Christ and this life which is but a blink of an eye and so points to their being so much more.
We have a sovereign and mighty God who is able to do so much more that we can imagine. Philippians 4 says 'do not be anxious for NOTHING but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let you requests be made known to God, and the peace of God, which passes all understanding , will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.' Acts 1 says 'they all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus and with His brothers'. All through the process I have struggled to know what God's will for myself is. But I do know His will is for me to follow Him all the days of my life and for us to continue to pray in our situation. I will be praying for the doors the hospital are still pushing to be opened, if God's will and I will also be on my knees petitioning for the mercy of the Lord. Can I ask you to do the same? I am not worth it but please as the Lord hears the cries of His people.
Verse of the day: Romans 15 v5-6
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for the heavenly hope we have that does not perish, fade or spoil. Pray we may live each day as it comes. For the peace, strength and Holy spirit to be with us at all times and directing us to the Lord. Pray for the couple of doors the hospital has left to push (if His will!) to be opened or for the mighty hand of Christ to take this disease from me. For our physical and mental state to be upheld enough to cope with the news we have heard. Pray for our families as they will feel helpless and downbeat also and pray for them to look to the Lord for strength. Pray for people to come to Christ because of our situation.
This left us a bit drained and battered but there is still hope! Your probably sat their saying, what! What hope! Well pick up the word of the Lord and from Genesis to Revelation there is hope and it NEVER fades. 1 Corinthians 13 says 'and now these 3 remain; faith, hope and love...' 2 Corinthians then says 'therefore we do not lose heart, though outwardly we are wasting away yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all'. We have an amazing hope in our Lord Jesus Christ and this life which is but a blink of an eye and so points to their being so much more.
We have a sovereign and mighty God who is able to do so much more that we can imagine. Philippians 4 says 'do not be anxious for NOTHING but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let you requests be made known to God, and the peace of God, which passes all understanding , will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.' Acts 1 says 'they all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus and with His brothers'. All through the process I have struggled to know what God's will for myself is. But I do know His will is for me to follow Him all the days of my life and for us to continue to pray in our situation. I will be praying for the doors the hospital are still pushing to be opened, if God's will and I will also be on my knees petitioning for the mercy of the Lord. Can I ask you to do the same? I am not worth it but please as the Lord hears the cries of His people.
Verse of the day: Romans 15 v5-6
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for the heavenly hope we have that does not perish, fade or spoil. Pray we may live each day as it comes. For the peace, strength and Holy spirit to be with us at all times and directing us to the Lord. Pray for the couple of doors the hospital has left to push (if His will!) to be opened or for the mighty hand of Christ to take this disease from me. For our physical and mental state to be upheld enough to cope with the news we have heard. Pray for our families as they will feel helpless and downbeat also and pray for them to look to the Lord for strength. Pray for people to come to Christ because of our situation.
Thursday, 19 May 2011
Thursday 19th May - He hears us
Good evening. We have had a really nice day and another one where on the whole I have been well. I slept well again which meant I awoke a lot fresher than I have previous days. My dad then came for a visit in which we had a walk around the docks, went for lunch and generally caught up, which was a real blessing. We have then both relaxed this afternoon, with me having an afternoon nap and Anne gardening. We have then had a peaceful evening enjoying the free time we have. God is answering prayer every day as I am sleeping better, we have a peace and are trusting in His word.
1 John 5 v 11-15 says 'and this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life. And this is the confidence that we have toward Him, that if we ask anything according to His will He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of Him'. God never leaves our side and He carries us when life becomes too hard. He hears our petitions toward Him and God's will is always the best for our lives.
Verse for the day: 1 John 3 v 14
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord He wants to hear our thoughts and requests and that we have a personal relationship with Him. Pray for God's mighty hand to take the cancer from my body and restore it to full health. Pray for our bodies to be physically well and to sleep really well most nights. Pray we will hear from the hospital soon and God will guide us through His will. Pray for our families and for God's strength to be their strength and their peace to be from God.
1 John 5 v 11-15 says 'and this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life. And this is the confidence that we have toward Him, that if we ask anything according to His will He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of Him'. God never leaves our side and He carries us when life becomes too hard. He hears our petitions toward Him and God's will is always the best for our lives.
Verse for the day: 1 John 3 v 14
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord He wants to hear our thoughts and requests and that we have a personal relationship with Him. Pray for God's mighty hand to take the cancer from my body and restore it to full health. Pray for our bodies to be physically well and to sleep really well most nights. Pray we will hear from the hospital soon and God will guide us through His will. Pray for our families and for God's strength to be their strength and their peace to be from God.
Wednesday, 18 May 2011
Wednesday 18th May - Relationship
Good evening. We have had a really great day but one which some people who read of it will not understand why. I slept really well last night and got 8 hours sleep. We have therefore been able to do so much more. Trips to the shops, cook tea, have visitors and enjoy each others company so much more. By the end of the day though the devil has entered for the last couple of hours. I feel like I have been thrown off a cliff and I am trying to get to the top and just can't see a way there.
You can become incredibly selfish and just focus on the cancer going and you living the life you want to lead. God does not dish out cancer or say we do not love him lets give Him AIDS. God is not a punitive God but one who walks with His people and gives them peace and strength beyond human capacity. David is such a powerful bible character because he loves the Lord so much but yet wrestles with the injustice he believes he witnesses. In psalm 95 v1 he says 'come let us sing joy for the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation'. Go back one Psalm though and in v3 he enquires of the Lord 'How long, Lord will the wicked, how long will the wicked be jubilant?' David though is the greatest human king the Israelites had and He loved the Lord with all his heart. He says in Psalm 18 v 2 'The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; my God, my strength in whom I will trust; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold'.
Being a Christian is an amazing gift and one which is a relationship. God is in relations with us and we have to open our heart fully to experience this amazing gift. Whatever God's will is for my life, we can cling to the truths His word provides and the love a personal relationship brings. Once again thank you for all your prayers and support but most importantly if you are reading this blog and don't 'know' Him, make every effort to do so. I am more than happy to answer questions on nofearindeath@hotmail.co.uk and ask people around you as life may be shorter than we all expect.
Verses of the day: 1 John 1 v 4-10
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for all He has done and that we can have that personal relationship with Him. Pray for the Lord to heal the cancer from my body and restore my body to full health. Pray we seek the Lord all the days of our lives and we will know His vital presence. Continue to pray for sleep, rest and my body's physical state. Pray for God to continue to minister to our families and friends. For those who seek the Lord that He shall be found and for them to find a biblical church.
You can become incredibly selfish and just focus on the cancer going and you living the life you want to lead. God does not dish out cancer or say we do not love him lets give Him AIDS. God is not a punitive God but one who walks with His people and gives them peace and strength beyond human capacity. David is such a powerful bible character because he loves the Lord so much but yet wrestles with the injustice he believes he witnesses. In psalm 95 v1 he says 'come let us sing joy for the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation'. Go back one Psalm though and in v3 he enquires of the Lord 'How long, Lord will the wicked, how long will the wicked be jubilant?' David though is the greatest human king the Israelites had and He loved the Lord with all his heart. He says in Psalm 18 v 2 'The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; my God, my strength in whom I will trust; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold'.
Being a Christian is an amazing gift and one which is a relationship. God is in relations with us and we have to open our heart fully to experience this amazing gift. Whatever God's will is for my life, we can cling to the truths His word provides and the love a personal relationship brings. Once again thank you for all your prayers and support but most importantly if you are reading this blog and don't 'know' Him, make every effort to do so. I am more than happy to answer questions on nofearindeath@hotmail.co.uk and ask people around you as life may be shorter than we all expect.
Verses of the day: 1 John 1 v 4-10
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for all He has done and that we can have that personal relationship with Him. Pray for the Lord to heal the cancer from my body and restore my body to full health. Pray we seek the Lord all the days of our lives and we will know His vital presence. Continue to pray for sleep, rest and my body's physical state. Pray for God to continue to minister to our families and friends. For those who seek the Lord that He shall be found and for them to find a biblical church.
Tuesday, 17 May 2011
Tuesday 17th May - Our current sufferings
Good evening. We have had a good day overall. I did not sleep well again, just getting 2/3 hours. This meant the morning had to be used for recovery to try and restore my body. After lunch, I have completed some Target camp tasks and we went for a walk around the block too. We are having tea and are then spending the evening relaxing in our house. Within our situation the person who has the hardest time is the person looking on (wife, parent, relative), these are the people who need the most prayer and I would ask for this now regarding our situation.
Paul was a very wise man seen as a well respected intellect of his day. He also has been given such biblical wisdom and you can just imagine his face as He is telling this to people. You know Paul loves the Lord. This is no more evident than in Romans. He says in Ch8 v16 - 18 'the spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs - heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with Him in order that we may also be glorified with him. For I consider that the present sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed in us'.
There are some amazing truths in this passage such as we are co-heirs with Christ. Us viewed by God in the same light as Christ and we are glorified because of the cross and love of our Lord. Paul had such a longing for eternal life. I was listening to a preacher the other day and he said Paul must have been the devil's nightmare. In prison, an earthquake happens and Paul brings the jailer to Christ, chained to a roman solider and so Paul tells him the gospel all day. Paul is in prison and he prays for the advancement of the gospel, he is beaten, whipped and eventually killed. All the way through He loved the Lord and stood for the gospel.
Thank you for all your prayers, they mean so much and are a real blessing and comfort to us both.
Verse of the day: Philippians 1 v 3-5
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord we are co-heirs with Christ and the glory to come is greater than the suffering we endure on earth. Pray for God to heal the cancer from my body and He would hear our cries for His mercy. Pray for my sleep, that I would overcome my anxiety of needing sleep and rest. Pray for my body to be upheld, specifically my back and stomach. Pray for our families to be strengthened by the Lord and for Him to provide a peace that passes all understanding. Pray for us all to grow in our knowledge and love of God.
Paul was a very wise man seen as a well respected intellect of his day. He also has been given such biblical wisdom and you can just imagine his face as He is telling this to people. You know Paul loves the Lord. This is no more evident than in Romans. He says in Ch8 v16 - 18 'the spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs - heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with Him in order that we may also be glorified with him. For I consider that the present sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed in us'.
There are some amazing truths in this passage such as we are co-heirs with Christ. Us viewed by God in the same light as Christ and we are glorified because of the cross and love of our Lord. Paul had such a longing for eternal life. I was listening to a preacher the other day and he said Paul must have been the devil's nightmare. In prison, an earthquake happens and Paul brings the jailer to Christ, chained to a roman solider and so Paul tells him the gospel all day. Paul is in prison and he prays for the advancement of the gospel, he is beaten, whipped and eventually killed. All the way through He loved the Lord and stood for the gospel.
Thank you for all your prayers, they mean so much and are a real blessing and comfort to us both.
Verse of the day: Philippians 1 v 3-5
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord we are co-heirs with Christ and the glory to come is greater than the suffering we endure on earth. Pray for God to heal the cancer from my body and He would hear our cries for His mercy. Pray for my sleep, that I would overcome my anxiety of needing sleep and rest. Pray for my body to be upheld, specifically my back and stomach. Pray for our families to be strengthened by the Lord and for Him to provide a peace that passes all understanding. Pray for us all to grow in our knowledge and love of God.
Monday, 16 May 2011
Monday 16th May - His ways are truly wise
Good evening. We have had a relaxed day and in which I have had lots of sleep and just needed to be able to rest. I once again had a good nights sleep but then fell ill again this morning and have needed to stop. Anne has been shopping and has done things around the house and she is out at the church members meeting tonight. I am feeling physically tired but trusting in the Lord and asking for His peace to be upon us.
I was looking at Romans this morning and ch11 v33-36 says 'oh the depth of the and wisdom of the knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgements and how inscrutable are His ways. For who has known the mind of the Lord or who has been His counsellor? Or who has given a gift to Him that He might be repaid?For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be glory forever.' We have an awesome God and who are we to question the mind and actions of our God. We rest though in His wisdom and that all his ways are perfect.
Verse of the day: Hebrews 13 v 5
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for His unmatchable witness and how His ways are perfect. Pray for the cancer to be healed by the mighty hand of the Lord. Pray for my physical condition to only get better so I am capable of having the treatment and spending time with Anne. Pray for our families and for the Lord to uphold them in all this suffering. Praise the Lord for all He has done for us and so many over the past 8 months.
I was looking at Romans this morning and ch11 v33-36 says 'oh the depth of the and wisdom of the knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgements and how inscrutable are His ways. For who has known the mind of the Lord or who has been His counsellor? Or who has given a gift to Him that He might be repaid?For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be glory forever.' We have an awesome God and who are we to question the mind and actions of our God. We rest though in His wisdom and that all his ways are perfect.
Verse of the day: Hebrews 13 v 5
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for His unmatchable witness and how His ways are perfect. Pray for the cancer to be healed by the mighty hand of the Lord. Pray for my physical condition to only get better so I am capable of having the treatment and spending time with Anne. Pray for our families and for the Lord to uphold them in all this suffering. Praise the Lord for all He has done for us and so many over the past 8 months.
Sunday, 15 May 2011
Sunday 15th May - Foolishness
Good evening we have had a great day but one in which I have seen myself for a fool. I had the best sleep I have had all week although was still awake earlier than needed. My body was a little sore from the night before though and so Anne went to church and I stayed at home to rest. We then had lunch together and friends came around this afternoon to catch up over coffee. We have then been to church which was a real blessing but showed myself to be a fool.
The last 2 weeks I seem to have focused upon myself, the medical statistics, saying ' if ' and 'but' forgetting my need to lean upon the Lord. Church or The Spirit changed this; God is the only one to rely upon. We have a God who all His promises come true and He walks with us. 1 Corinthians 2v5 says 'that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of man but in the power of God'. We should find rest in Him and one day we will find permanent rest with Him.
Verse of the day: John 14v 15-16
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for His rest and that we have a helper here on earth. Praise the Lord we are able to do more and see more people. Pray for the cancer to be healed from my body though a miracle or by medical treatment. Pray for renewed strength, sleep and peace from the Lord. Pray for our families. Pray for our world and the blind people in it.
The last 2 weeks I seem to have focused upon myself, the medical statistics, saying ' if ' and 'but' forgetting my need to lean upon the Lord. Church or The Spirit changed this; God is the only one to rely upon. We have a God who all His promises come true and He walks with us. 1 Corinthians 2v5 says 'that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of man but in the power of God'. We should find rest in Him and one day we will find permanent rest with Him.
Verse of the day: John 14v 15-16
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for His rest and that we have a helper here on earth. Praise the Lord we are able to do more and see more people. Pray for the cancer to be healed from my body though a miracle or by medical treatment. Pray for renewed strength, sleep and peace from the Lord. Pray for our families. Pray for our world and the blind people in it.
Saturday, 14 May 2011
Saturday 14th May - Lean upon God
Good evening. We have had a really nice Saturday. I was able to sleep much better and felt more refreshed than any other mornings. We had a relaxed morning and Anne has cleaned the house (what a ledge!) and I sat and watched my favourite cooking programs. We then had some lunch and went to watch Beauty and the Beast at The Empire, which was fantastic and was a blessing to spend time like that with Anne. I am looking forward to a good nights sleep and would value again prayer for this.
Proverbs 3 v 4 says 'Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding'. We have had to do this lots and the Lord has never failed in His dealings with us.
Verse of the day: Romans 8 v 28
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord we have the hope of heaven and that this world is not all there is. Pray for God to take the cancer and for Him to restore my health. Pray for physical strength, sleep and for my wife who has to walk with me in pain. Pray for our families.
Proverbs 3 v 4 says 'Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding'. We have had to do this lots and the Lord has never failed in His dealings with us.
Verse of the day: Romans 8 v 28
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord we have the hope of heaven and that this world is not all there is. Pray for God to take the cancer and for Him to restore my health. Pray for physical strength, sleep and for my wife who has to walk with me in pain. Pray for our families.
Friday, 13 May 2011
Friday 13th May - Walking together in affliction.
Good evening, sorry there was no blog yesterday but the blogger website had technical problems all day and so could not type out my blog as could not have access.We have had a good day and I have grown much stronger throughout the day. In feeling like I am saying the same things I did not sleep well due to placing so much pressure to do so upon my shoulders. We had a visit from a friend this afternoon and Anne has met a friend for coffee too. Anne has then gone out to youth work and I am planning on going to Target for half an hour or so. I have grown physically stronger and have been able to do a bit more each day.
Paul in 2 Corinthians 1 v3-6 encourages us by saying 'Blessed be the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too. If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort which you experience when patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer'. I know through our sufferings the Lord has been our rock and comfort and really has been our peace in times of affliction. We have also had so many friends supporting and caring for us; walking our footsteps of affliction too. Paul talks of sharing in Christ's suffering and as followers of Him we should walk with brothers and sisters in affliction also.
I know I have not said it for a while but thank you so much to everyone who prays for us, it really is a source of comfort from the Lord.
Verse of the day: Joshua 21 v 45
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for His comforts and being our rock during our time of affliction. Thank the Lord for our salvation, which if we did not have would cause us to walk in despair. Pray for the cancer to be healed from my body whether through medical resources or by a mighty miracle from the Lord. Pray for my back, pray for our sleep and pray for us to have a good level of life. Pray for our families and for the Lord to continue to provide people around them who will be their comfort and walk in their affliction.
Paul in 2 Corinthians 1 v3-6 encourages us by saying 'Blessed be the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too. If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort which you experience when patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer'. I know through our sufferings the Lord has been our rock and comfort and really has been our peace in times of affliction. We have also had so many friends supporting and caring for us; walking our footsteps of affliction too. Paul talks of sharing in Christ's suffering and as followers of Him we should walk with brothers and sisters in affliction also.
I know I have not said it for a while but thank you so much to everyone who prays for us, it really is a source of comfort from the Lord.
Verse of the day: Joshua 21 v 45
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for His comforts and being our rock during our time of affliction. Thank the Lord for our salvation, which if we did not have would cause us to walk in despair. Pray for the cancer to be healed from my body whether through medical resources or by a mighty miracle from the Lord. Pray for my back, pray for our sleep and pray for us to have a good level of life. Pray for our families and for the Lord to continue to provide people around them who will be their comfort and walk in their affliction.
Wednesday, 11 May 2011
Wednesday 11th May - Sleep
Good evening we have had a good day and have been able to do a lot more than last week. Our biggest issue at the moment has become sleep. For the past 2 nights I have not slept well and so consequently Anne has not slept well either. We would really appreciate prayer for this to change and for us to be able sleep well. I am feeling physically much stronger and have been able to cook lunch and dinner and have a friend for coffee (a real blessing). I am also mentally so much more positive and continuing to trust in the Lord.
Romans 8v1-5 says 'there is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh. In order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the spirit. For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the spirit set their minds on the things of the spirit.' Lots of people say "how does God have a relationship with you?" This is by the Holy Spirit and we should set our minds upon these things. He guides us in the ways of the Lord and intercedes for us before the Lord.
Verse of the day: Mark 2 v 5
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord we have the Spirit to guide and intercede for us. Pray for our sleep to be long and consistent and for my back to hold up during the night. Pray for us to be able to gain access to the Braf drug and for God to heal the cancer. Pray for our families and for the Lord to meet all their needs. Pray for soul to be saved.
Romans 8v1-5 says 'there is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh. In order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the spirit. For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the spirit set their minds on the things of the spirit.' Lots of people say "how does God have a relationship with you?" This is by the Holy Spirit and we should set our minds upon these things. He guides us in the ways of the Lord and intercedes for us before the Lord.
Verse of the day: Mark 2 v 5
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord we have the Spirit to guide and intercede for us. Pray for our sleep to be long and consistent and for my back to hold up during the night. Pray for us to be able to gain access to the Braf drug and for God to heal the cancer. Pray for our families and for the Lord to meet all their needs. Pray for soul to be saved.
Tuesday, 10 May 2011
Tuesday 10th May - From darkness to light
Good evening. We have had a good day overall and are continuing to take each day as it comes. I did not sleep amazingly well and was awake from 5 30 but have had a good day physically going out for lunch and a walk around the shops. We have then had a couple of visitors this afternoon and have relaxed this evening and looking forward to The Apprentice tonight. We are continuing to trust in the Lord and He has blessed myself today with well being and we are going to continue to pray for it.
1 Peter 2 v9-11 says 'but you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light. Once you were not a people but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy but now you have received mercy.' We have received the mercy of the Lord and His compassion extends to all. We are chosen by Him and we are now to live in the wonderful light and live for Christ alone.
Verse for the day: John 1 v 1-9
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for His goodness to us and for His sustaining of my body. Praise the Lord for the real hope of heaven and we have been brought into the light. Pray for the the cancer to be healed and for God to restore my earthly body. Pray for God to uphold my body (especially my back) and for me to have a pain free night/week. Pray for God to be the strength, peace and love our families need during this difficult time. Pray for the salvation of souls and for people to walk into the light.
1 Peter 2 v9-11 says 'but you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light. Once you were not a people but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy but now you have received mercy.' We have received the mercy of the Lord and His compassion extends to all. We are chosen by Him and we are now to live in the wonderful light and live for Christ alone.
Verse for the day: John 1 v 1-9
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for His goodness to us and for His sustaining of my body. Praise the Lord for the real hope of heaven and we have been brought into the light. Pray for the the cancer to be healed and for God to restore my earthly body. Pray for God to uphold my body (especially my back) and for me to have a pain free night/week. Pray for God to be the strength, peace and love our families need during this difficult time. Pray for the salvation of souls and for people to walk into the light.
Monday, 9 May 2011
Monday 9th May - Praise the Lord
Good evening. We have had a mixed day but one which has ended positively. We went for the scan this morning but I was not feeling very well. I came back and slept and also contended with a visit from the district nurse. We were then called back to the hospital and this made myself and Anne very nervous but the meeting with the consultant was a real answer to prayer. The brain scan showed no development and the swelling around the small tumour has gone which is fantastic. The other scan showed a slight progression, so proving the chemotherapy is not working but this allows for a compassionate application for a drug which has shown early signs of excellent results. I do though need to be physically very well and would really love prayer to this end.
Psalm 30 v 4-5 says 'sing praises to the Lord, O you His saints, and give thanks to His holy name'. Psalm 34v 1-3 also sings 'I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. Oh magnify the Lord with me and let us exalt His name together.' The Lord blessed our meeting today and has given us positive news. We want to praise Him not only today but every day for our salvation and our relationship with Him. Praise Him you heavens and all that's above.
Verse of the day: Psalm 106 v 1
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for Him never leaving or forsaking us. Praise Him for the meeting today and for the positive news we received. Pray for the cancer for God to heal it from my body and restore it to its full health. Pray for my body that is would grow physically stronger each day and I would sleep well every night. Pray for our families and their strength to be from the Lord and for Him to give them His peace. Pray for the salvation of others.
Psalm 30 v 4-5 says 'sing praises to the Lord, O you His saints, and give thanks to His holy name'. Psalm 34v 1-3 also sings 'I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. Oh magnify the Lord with me and let us exalt His name together.' The Lord blessed our meeting today and has given us positive news. We want to praise Him not only today but every day for our salvation and our relationship with Him. Praise Him you heavens and all that's above.
Verse of the day: Psalm 106 v 1
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for Him never leaving or forsaking us. Praise Him for the meeting today and for the positive news we received. Pray for the cancer for God to heal it from my body and restore it to its full health. Pray for my body that is would grow physically stronger each day and I would sleep well every night. Pray for our families and their strength to be from the Lord and for Him to give them His peace. Pray for the salvation of others.
Sunday, 8 May 2011
Sunday 8th May - Reconciled
Good evening. I have once again had a mixed day. I slept better than I did the night before but when I awoke both my back and stomach were in quite bad pain and so needed to stay at home and miss church which was a disappointment. I am feeling much better this evening and both areas have settled down. We have had a relaxed day and Anne has met a friend for coffee and been to church. We have a full body scan tomorrow to check whether the cancer has spread or not and whether to carry on with chemotherapy. This obviously needs a lot of prayer and we are trusting in the Lord for this.
Paul in Colossians 1 v 21-24 says 'And you who once were alienated and hostile in the mind, doing evil deeds, He has now reconciled in His body of flesh by His death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before Him. If indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven and of which I, Paul, became a minister.'
Verse of the day: Jeremiah 15 v 16
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for walking this road with us and being the rock we need. Pray for the Lord to take the cancer from my body and for the scans to be a blessing not a burden to us. Pray for my physical condition not to be so up and down and for me to be able to sleep well. Pray for our families and for the Lord to be their peace and strength. Pray for the salvation of souls.
Paul in Colossians 1 v 21-24 says 'And you who once were alienated and hostile in the mind, doing evil deeds, He has now reconciled in His body of flesh by His death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before Him. If indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven and of which I, Paul, became a minister.'
Verse of the day: Jeremiah 15 v 16
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for walking this road with us and being the rock we need. Pray for the Lord to take the cancer from my body and for the scans to be a blessing not a burden to us. Pray for my physical condition not to be so up and down and for me to be able to sleep well. Pray for our families and for the Lord to be their peace and strength. Pray for the salvation of souls.
Saturday, 7 May 2011
Saturday 7th May - More to life than this.
Good evening I have had an OK day physically feeling stronger this evening than I did this morning. We travelled down from the Lake district earlier than planned due to me not being up to physically much. We have enjoyed a relaxed afternoon and a couple of friends popped in to see us. We have rested this evening and I am going to have an early night ready for church tomorrow. Going through all of this every day only serves to reinforce that there is more to life than this.
Paul in 1 Corinthians 9v24 talks of our heavenly hope. He says' Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize'. We have to be ready and looking towards the prize. We need to give ourselves to Christ so as to not miss out on the gift of grace.
Verse of the day: Revelation 3 v22
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord we have a prize to look toward to and its a free one. Pray for God to heal my body from the cancer and for the scans I am having to be a blessing not a burden. Pray for our sleep and for our physical bodies to be upheld by the Lord. Pray for our families, for them to know the peace, strength and love of the Lord in their daily walk. Pray for the salvation of people reading this blog and for others who are walking without Him.
Friday, 6 May 2011
Friday 6th May: Heaven
We have had a mixed day; starting slowly this morning we just chilled out in our room watching TV and listening to a sermon by Matt Chandler, as Glen felt rough and had not slept well. We then headed out to Lakeland for lunch and a walk round the store, it was nice to just take things slowly and not to rush. Next we walked down to lake Winder mere and had an ice-cream, before heading to the spa. Heading back to our hotel, Glen started to feel tired and his back began to hurt. We went out for a quick tea, which Glen had to leave early as his back hurt too much. He has had a bath and is now sleeping (hopefully this will last), therefore I'm writing the blog as a change.
I've really been stuck with how much we live for earthly gain rather than heavenly. We need to look towards heaven and realise our mortality. As in Philippians 3 v20 Paul reminds us that 'For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.' Our real home is in heaven.
Thank you for all your prayers, we have really felt God's peace and continue to trust in Him.
Verse for today: Philippians 3
Prayer for today: Please pray for a good night's sleep and for Glen to feel stronger. Pray that we will continue to know and feel God's peace at this time. Pray that God will heal Glen from this cancer, restoring his body to full health. Pray for our families that they would also know and feel God's peace too.
I've really been stuck with how much we live for earthly gain rather than heavenly. We need to look towards heaven and realise our mortality. As in Philippians 3 v20 Paul reminds us that 'For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.' Our real home is in heaven.
Thank you for all your prayers, we have really felt God's peace and continue to trust in Him.
Verse for today: Philippians 3
Prayer for today: Please pray for a good night's sleep and for Glen to feel stronger. Pray that we will continue to know and feel God's peace at this time. Pray that God will heal Glen from this cancer, restoring his body to full health. Pray for our families that they would also know and feel God's peace too.
Thursday, 5 May 2011
Thursday 4th May - Praise Him
Good evening. We have a had a good day and packed a lot in. We took it slow this morning and Anne went to the doctors and was granted a further 12 weeks off work which was a weight off our shoulders. We have then had a scan of my brain and have been praying for God's blessing in this. This afternoon we have relaxed and have then come away to spend some time together for a couple of days. I am feeling much better physically and my back and chest infection has settled down lots which is fantastic.
Psalm 71 says 'for your righteousness, O God, reaches the heavens, You who have done great things; O God who is like you?.... I will also praise you with a harp, even Your truth, O my God; To you I will sing praises with the lyre, O holy one of Israel. My lips will shout for joy when I sing praises to you; and my soul, which you have redeemed.' God is worthy of our praise and we should do it always.
Verse of the day: Romans 8 v 28
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord I am feeling stronger and we have been able to come away. Pray for both scans to be a blessing and clear. Pray for us to be able to carry on with chemotherapy and for God to take this cancer. Pray for our families and their strength. Pray for people to come to Christ. Pray for us to be able to enjoy our time away and not think or worry about the cancer.
Psalm 71 says 'for your righteousness, O God, reaches the heavens, You who have done great things; O God who is like you?.... I will also praise you with a harp, even Your truth, O my God; To you I will sing praises with the lyre, O holy one of Israel. My lips will shout for joy when I sing praises to you; and my soul, which you have redeemed.' God is worthy of our praise and we should do it always.
Verse of the day: Romans 8 v 28
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord I am feeling stronger and we have been able to come away. Pray for both scans to be a blessing and clear. Pray for us to be able to carry on with chemotherapy and for God to take this cancer. Pray for our families and their strength. Pray for people to come to Christ. Pray for us to be able to enjoy our time away and not think or worry about the cancer.
Wednesday, 4 May 2011
Wednesday 4th May - We are unworthy before Him
Good evening. When I was 17 one of the biggest questions for me was there has to be more than just this world? How true that has now been proved to me. Without the hope of heaven we would not have been able to cope with any of our situation. We are having a brain scan at 12 20 tomorrow and will probably be having the body scan also. My heart today has been crying out to God for a miracle, for a God intervention and for the cancer to go. I pray for this not to lead to desperation. Its hard to think I am going for life/death scans and everyone is carry on with life and I can't even contemplate being here in 6 weeks.
God I know has and will continue to be with us and He can do the impossible. I love Job as a book and He is faithful and also justly questions God and God restores him from ill health. Job after God has shown His amazing power in 38-40 says 'I know that you can do all things and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted. Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge? Therefore I have declared that which I did not understand, things too wonderful for me, which I did not know. Hear,now and I will speak;I will ask You and You instruct me.' Job realises his place before God and repents and realises he is so unworthy. I have been praying for God to end our situation in the same way as Job's and I continue to pray for this but if this is not realised then I pray I know my position before the Almighty God.
Verse of the day: Joshua 21v45
Prayer of the day: Pray for God to be our strength, portion, peace and hope at this difficult time. Pray for the scans tomorrow that God would heal me of the cancer and when we go for results they would be a blessing and not a burden. Pray for our hope to ALWAYS be in God and for us not to fail to trust in Him. Pray for our families and their strength to be from the Lord and their hope will be in him. Pray for the salvation of people and for them to realise their need of Christ. Pray for our witness to the hospital staff and nurses.
God I know has and will continue to be with us and He can do the impossible. I love Job as a book and He is faithful and also justly questions God and God restores him from ill health. Job after God has shown His amazing power in 38-40 says 'I know that you can do all things and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted. Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge? Therefore I have declared that which I did not understand, things too wonderful for me, which I did not know. Hear,now and I will speak;I will ask You and You instruct me.' Job realises his place before God and repents and realises he is so unworthy. I have been praying for God to end our situation in the same way as Job's and I continue to pray for this but if this is not realised then I pray I know my position before the Almighty God.
Verse of the day: Joshua 21v45
Prayer of the day: Pray for God to be our strength, portion, peace and hope at this difficult time. Pray for the scans tomorrow that God would heal me of the cancer and when we go for results they would be a blessing and not a burden. Pray for our hope to ALWAYS be in God and for us not to fail to trust in Him. Pray for our families and their strength to be from the Lord and their hope will be in him. Pray for the salvation of people and for them to realise their need of Christ. Pray for our witness to the hospital staff and nurses.
Tuesday, 3 May 2011
Tuesday 3rd May - Destiny
Good evening. Where to start tonight. We went to see the consultant this afternoon and we received more hard news. I am going to have a scan this week to determine whether the chemotherapy is working and then will go back next week for the results. The tumours will have to shrink by at least 30%. I have some new lumps and the consultant said this is not a good sign. If it is not working then there will be nothing they can do for the cancer. Death is before me and is very prominent presently. I know we will be on our knees this week praying for a miracle and the news made me angry, sad, disappointed and just wanted to punch a bag or kick a wall. I don't want to die at 25, leave my wife and family and have a painful end but know of the supremacy of Christ.
I then read Lamentations 3 v 22-26. It says' The Lord's loving kindnesses indeed never cease. For His compassion's never fail. They are new every morning; Great is your faithfulness. "The Lord is my portion" says my soul, "therefore I have hope in Him." The Lord is good to those who wait for Him. To the person who seeks Him. It is good that he waits silently for the salvation of the Lord.' I have a hope that is certain and even conquers death. I know that even if next week turns out the way we do not want it too, I have Christ and He died for me. We will all die at some point maybe even tomorrow but we have that hope to cling to.
Verse of the day: Romans 5 v 25-26
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord He has been with us today during this difficult time. Praise the Lord that this world is not all there is. Pray for the scan next week for God to take the cancer from my body by His mighty hand. Pray for our families who have to deal with this difficult news and also support us. Pray for our sleep and for our bodies to be refreshed. Pray for people to come to Christ and know the hope of heaven.
I then read Lamentations 3 v 22-26. It says' The Lord's loving kindnesses indeed never cease. For His compassion's never fail. They are new every morning; Great is your faithfulness. "The Lord is my portion" says my soul, "therefore I have hope in Him." The Lord is good to those who wait for Him. To the person who seeks Him. It is good that he waits silently for the salvation of the Lord.' I have a hope that is certain and even conquers death. I know that even if next week turns out the way we do not want it too, I have Christ and He died for me. We will all die at some point maybe even tomorrow but we have that hope to cling to.
Verse of the day: Romans 5 v 25-26
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord He has been with us today during this difficult time. Praise the Lord that this world is not all there is. Pray for the scan next week for God to take the cancer from my body by His mighty hand. Pray for our families who have to deal with this difficult news and also support us. Pray for our sleep and for our bodies to be refreshed. Pray for people to come to Christ and know the hope of heaven.
Monday, 2 May 2011
Monday 2nd May - Lift your eyes to Him
Good evening. Today has been a difficult day as I once again did not sleep well last night due to back pain. I only managed 4 hours sleep which has left me needing to completely stop and sleep all day. It has been a tough week in terms of being able to get out and do things. Anne has been out to see friends for a couple of hours and I have listened to sermons and music using my ipod touch (Thank you Nathan). I awoke this morning with a change of attitude. I have become a bit obsessive with my body and symptoms and found myself becoming more complacent in my relationship with God and relying on the success of treatment as opposed to just trusting in Him. We are meeting my consultant tomorrow to discuss new lumps and symptoms found, what successful chemotherapy is and to find out the results of the BRAF test completed a few months ago. I am not sure what to expect but surrounding it in prayer and trusting the Father. Please can I ask people to pray earnestly for this (Thank you so much for all your prayers).
I was reading Isaiah 40 v 26 - 31 today and it really encouraged me of the Lord's control of our situation. I have found this hard in the last week or so but Isaiah says 'Lift your eyes on high and see who has created these stars, the One who leads forth their host by number, He calls them by name; because of the greatness of His might and the strength of His power, not one of them is missing. Why do you say, O Jacob, and assert O Israel, "My way is hidden from the Lord and the justice due me escapes the notice of my God" Do you not know? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary and tired. His understanding is inscrutable. He gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired and vigorous young men stumble badly. Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles. They will run and not get tired. They will walk and not become weary'. I am sorry it is so long but was such an encouragement and gave me such peace of things to come.
Verse of the day: Psalm 71 v 19
Prayer of the day: Praise the Lord for His spirit being with us and giving me a refreshed trust in Him. Praise Him for His strength and how He uplifts His people. Please pray for the meeting with the consultant tomorrow, for God to go before us and for the consultant's words to be God's also. Pray for a renewed body strength and for me to be able to sleep well so Anne can too. Pray for our families to have the peace of God and the strength of the Holy Spirit with them always. Pray for the salvation of people we meet, speak to and are reading the blog too.
Sunday, 1 May 2011
Sunday 1st May - Strengthend by the Spirit
Good evening. We have had a really lovely day and have enjoyed the sunshine and time to relax. We went to church this morning and had a real blessed time of fellowship. It was great to be able to worship the Lord and hear His word preached. I went out with the Target age group (11-13yr olds) and it was really good to be able to spend time with them too. I slept much better than I had the night before and which helped me be able to get on. We have rested tonight and taken time for one another. We watched 'The Voyage of the Dawn Treader' which was a real encouragement of what kingdom is to come.
The Voyage of the Dawn Treader ends with the children going back to earth with Aslan (Christ) and he says I am with you on earth. He was talking about the Holy Spirit. Colossians 1 v11-14 talks of the this when it says 'being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the holy people of light. For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the Kingdom of the Son He loves in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.' We are able to cope with the situations we find ourselves in, through the strength of the Spirit and the Lord being everything we need.
Verse of the day: Philippians 4 v 12-13
Prayer for the day: Praise the Lord that He does NOT leave us on earth alone. Praise Him for our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. Pray for God to heal my body of the cancer. Pray for God to help us sleep well and our bodies to be upheld physically by Him. Pray for our families to be also strengthened by the Spirit. Pray for people to come to know Him.
The Voyage of the Dawn Treader ends with the children going back to earth with Aslan (Christ) and he says I am with you on earth. He was talking about the Holy Spirit. Colossians 1 v11-14 talks of the this when it says 'being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the holy people of light. For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the Kingdom of the Son He loves in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.' We are able to cope with the situations we find ourselves in, through the strength of the Spirit and the Lord being everything we need.
Verse of the day: Philippians 4 v 12-13
Prayer for the day: Praise the Lord that He does NOT leave us on earth alone. Praise Him for our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. Pray for God to heal my body of the cancer. Pray for God to help us sleep well and our bodies to be upheld physically by Him. Pray for our families to be also strengthened by the Spirit. Pray for people to come to know Him.
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