Have you ever been disappointed?
Silly question, isn’t it? Because we’ve all been disappointed at one time or another. We live in a broken, sin-sick world. Disappointment is part of the package.
But it’s not the only part.
I know. Because I’m living this out right now.
A year ago, my husband was diagnosed with cancer. Four months ago, we rejoiced at the news that the cancer was in remission.
Sadly, his status changed last month. The cancer is back. And so are the chemo sessions. Blood tests. Scans. Nausea. Fatigue.
And disappointment.
Is that where you are today? Maybe it’s cancer or another diagnosis. Maybe it’s a broken marriage. Or a prodigal child making destructive choices…again.
Disappointment.
But as songwriter Phil Keaggy wrote, disappointment is His appointment. God’s appointment for growth. For spiritual intimacy with Him. For receiving comfort so we in turn can comfort others. And for living out our faith even in the most difficult times, because that’s when others will see real faith in the one, real God.
This doesn’t mean God is unloving or uncaring. It does mean He sees a bigger picture than we do. He has a plan for our ultimate good and His eternal glory. And His plan may include experiences that, with our limited perspective, we would not choose for ourselves.
We also have another set of choices. My natural inclination is to demand answers from God. If I’m honest, what I’m really doing is saying His ways don’t meet my approval and He owes me an explanation. But God doesn’t owe me—or anyone else—an explanation for what He allows.
The better choice is to rest in my relationship with Him. Trust instead of demand. Live out the reality of my faith with the assurance that He is trustworthy. And know that I know He loves me and my husband with an everlasting love.
Christians understand this temporary life is not all there is. Something greater than today’s suffering is at stake. The apostle Paul wrote in Romans 8:18, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”
And a few verses later we read, “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” (v. 38).
By the strength of the Holy Spirit, we can live without fear and worry. Listen as He reminds us of His Word. Receive comfort in His indwelling presence. And rest in the assurance that this life is not all there is. Regardless of the diagnosis—or any other problem life throws our way.
I am not alone in this. Neither is my husband. Because of Jesus Christ, we know who we belong to. And we trust Him.
You can, too.
We all have a choice. What will you choose?
❤️
Ava, I am so sorry to hear about this diagnosis but also so blessed to see how you are facing it. Christ is the big C not cancer. I will be praying for your family as you live out this truth again.🙏🏻
Thank you, Jane.
So sorry for you & Russ having to face this terrible diagnosis for a second time. We are so thankful you have Jesus Christ in your lives to shine his light on this shadow once again. We love you & will be praying for His Divine Mercy again. 💕
Sorry to hear this disappointing news. prayers for you both.💔
Thank you, Gail. Love to all!
Thank you, Paulette.
I am sad to hear this disappointing news. Sending hugs and prayers to you both.
Love you Ava! Praying for you both 😘😘😘😘
Good word. Ava. I’ve been praying for you and Russ. Hugs!
My heart aches with you in your struggle. Thank you for sharing your heart and your hope.
Thank you, Penni.
Thank you, Jane.
Prayers and agreement for healing from Canada.
Greg and Gail http://www.hope4u.ca
Trust in Him. You and Russ are always in my thoughts and prayers dear friend.
Ava , I’m so sorry for the very hard time you and Russ are going through. But, I’m so thankful your relationship with Jesus is only strengthening through this trial. I’m praying you will continue to grow closer and your faith only stronger. I like e you dearly and I miss you so much💗 I’m send big you a Big Hug💞
Oh, Ava. My heart is so heavy for you and Russ. And yet, I know the peace and unexplainable joy God gives even in times like this. Enjoy one another fully. Touch, and touch some more. Kneel and pray together. Talk about heaven. Allow yourselves to be weak before each other. Crying bring strengths in these times. I am praying for you both.
Thank you for sharing the reality of His word in life’s circumstances.
May God be your source continually,
Angel
Thank you, Angel.
Thank you, dear Barb. I know you understand.
Thank you, Kim.
Dear Ava, it is one thing to know these words of truth and another thing to live in them, isn’t it? How amazing our God is that when we walk through the most difficult trials with him we find it a heart-aching privilege to be entrusted with it. I’m sorry you and Russ are going through treatments again. You two are in my prayers and tucked in my heart. Thank you for openly sharing. TGBTG always and forever. Love you much. xo
Thank you, Karen. I know you understand. <3
You know I’m praying.
And sending love.
And Barbie already gave you the best advice. Treasure this time. I know you will.
Thank you, Marti. I am.