A serious cancer diagnosis of a close friend of mine has changed my devotional time with God. Her condition is constantly on my mind. All of a sudden, it seems all Scripture is about God’s faithfulness in times of suffering. Finding comfort in God’s Word demonstrates that God is with us, even in the darkest moments.

I cannot comprehend the anguish of hearing the words “stage 4 cancer”. I cannot fathom the agony of enduring chemo-treatment. I have not truly experienced the sorrow of knowing one’s days are limited. Yet, I am called to be present and to provide comfort and support to my friend. Sharing in the suffering of another demonstrates to us that “life is really not about me”. We are here for the sake of others.

The apostle Paul tells followers of Jesus in Romans 12:15 “to be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

Hope is the valuable treasure overflowing from the encouragement we receive from the Lord working in our life. Hope trusts that God is good.

Patience is the irreplaceable foundation that helps us persevere in affliction. Even in the face of great grief and troubles, the endurance we receive from the Lord holds life together. Patience believes that God is full of compassion.
Prayer is our most powerful weapon to combat pain and suffering. Prayer demonstrates that we understand God is in charge. We cannot control the difficulties that happen to us. Prayer understands that God is gracious.

Paul further supports the idea of us being beacons of hope with a Scriptural triad expressed flawlessly in Romans 15:4 [The Word of God: Endurance + Encouragement = Hope]. “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.”

Finally, Psalm 116 beautifully explains our dependence upon God in times of trouble.

“I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live. The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the grave came over me; I was overcome by distress and sorrow. Then I called on the name of the Lord: “Lord, save me!” The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion.”

Speak to us Word of God! I trust that each of us have people we support. Lord, help us carry one another’s load.