Five years ago, Scott and I celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary with a cruise to Bermuda. It was one of the most wonderful adventures of our married life together. Little did we know that within a couple of days of our cruise, we would begin another adventure into a tumultuous sea of heartache that would challenge us to our very core and leave us clinging desperately to our faith and to each other for dear life.

Right after we returned home, I went for the mammogram that revealed that I had breast cancer. That initial news was nothing short of terrifying. Nothing prepares you for the “c” word. And the hits just kept coming. We went for the consultation with the oncologist team and learned that I would need a series of surgeries including a double mastectomy. And that was just the beginning.

I was devastated. I gasped for the breath that had been knocked out of me. I began to sink.

Then I felt Jesus’ hand catch mine. Like Peter, I had taken my eyes off Him. Matthew 14:31 says that “Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith, “ He said, “why did you doubt?”“

How could I have forgotten that I couldn’t do this without Him? I didn’t even have to try. I just needed to stand on His promises. His Word was full of them.

… Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”  Deuteronomy 31:6

… He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. Psalm 91:15

… And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 1 Peter 5:10

… I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

During that time in 2011, I gave Scott a framed picture of us on the Bermuda cruise. On the back, it read, “I promise you that I will be here in five years, and we will go on another cruise.” The truth is I didn’t have the power to make that promise. But God did.

Last week, we celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary and 5 years of my being cancer free by going on a cruise to the Bahamas. Ain’t God good?

But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” Matthew 14:27

Let us cling unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful. Hebrews 10:23

Dear Lord: Thank You for Your faithfulness and grace toward us. Without Your love, where would we be? Amen

Are you facing or have you faced trials that you couldn’t bear? Have you found Jesus was there to lift you up? Are there verses that are special to you that spoke to your heart? Please share with our group by replying below.

Thank you for reading and sharing my blogpost. May God bless you through the trials of life.  May you always find provision and grace in His loving arms, and comfort by standing on His promises.