Previous "Points Along The Road"

Body:
It was July 2007 when I was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a slow growing cancer of the lymph system. CT scans every 3-4 months revealed little or no change until September 2009. At that point four infusions of Rituxan effectively treated the cancer as revealed by a December CT scan. A follow-up CT scan on March 3 revealed that the disease had progressed rapidly and in an uncharacteristic manner. A biopsy was scheduled for March 9 and by March 12 the doctor confirmed that the cancer was aggressive and would need to be treated aggressively.
After a heart test on March 15, the first chemo treatment took place on March 16. This was to be the first of what will be six treatments fourteen days apart followed by a week of intensive chemo.

Spirit: (From my journal March 16, the first day of chemo )
Isaiah 49:23 "Hope Does Not Disappoint" (the title of this blog)

What an incredible gem is placed in this text. I'm reading along and WHAM! There it is. What a promise: confidence placed in God is rewarded. Trust in God is never a mistake. It is general enough to apply broadly but specific in its result. He doesn't say what He will do in each situation, but we won't be disappointed. That's so consistent with His character and the "exceeding abundant" provision He promises (Eph 3:20-21).

It is also consistent with His sovereignty. This "better than expected" result doesn't occur by chance or because of a last minute scramble. No, it occurs because He is intimately involved in every detail of life (see Isa 49:1-6). The outcome is better because the knowledge and preparation BY GOD are better.

Why wouldn't a person be willing to trust One who can make that kind of promise?

I have a specific issue in mind as I live out this day. Today chemo begins. My hope is in the Lord for so much more than the physical outcome. It includes my family growth, my character growth, the staff growth, the leadership team and church growth. While I do care deeply about the physical results, my heart sees so much more...and He will NOT disappoint!

"Thank you, Lord, for the chance to live this day and face these challenges with hope because I am your child. And Lord, I trust it all to you and wait for your promise to be fulfilled. I know I will not be disappointed. In Jesus' name I pray this, Amen."