Last week, I learned some interesting things.
- Radiation for oral, head and neck (OHN) cancers may cause jaw damage. I had radiation therapy 22 years ago to combat oral cancer. Now I have dental problems.
- Radiation for OHN cancers can also cause problems with the ear, especially the Eustachian Tube. I have this, too.
- The Epstein-Barr virus appears to be a risk factor for OHN cancers. Epstein-Barr launched my chronic fatigue syndrome 32 years ago.
So, how do I respond to this information?
- First, I’m relieved. Those things were not my fault or punishment. They were, and are, part of God’s plan for me.
- I am not in the wrong place at the wrong time. I have been led, positioned, exactly here.
- God still has a purpose for me, something I’m meant to do or somewhere He needs me to be. I’m still useful. Imagine that!
- I’ve been graciously allowed a glimpse behind the curtain to see what God is doing. And the same God Who brought me through those troubles promises to be with me – everywhere and always.
When you go through deep waters,
I will be with you.
When you go through rivers of difficulty,
you will not drown.
When you walk through the fire of oppression,
you will not be burned up;
the flames will not consume you.
Isaiah 43:2 NLT
God has a plan, a position and a purpose for me. I’m excited to see what He has in store.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord.
“They are plans for good and not for disaster,
to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11 NLT
There is nothing random about that!
And just this morning, I realized that my career choice, nursing, was not random, either! I was being prepared. Thank You, Father.