Words of Encouragement

Last night I decided to take a journey down memory lane and I began reading my blog from the very beginning.  As I read each posting, it was hard for me to believe that I was reading about MY journey with breast cancer.....and not someone else's.  I was surprised by the amount of information I was able to share and as I continued to read, I was reminded of the feelings that a newly diagnosed woman faces.  I was reminded of the outpouring of love from my husband, family, friends, and those I never even met.  I was also reminded of my faith.  Although I experienced every possible emotion throughout my journey, I knew from the very beginning that God was the only one who could heal my body, give me life, and bring me out of the pit of despair.  I also believed that God would use my journey and story of survival to bring hope to others.  Much of what strengthened me, and continues to do so today, was knowing that God was with me all the time.  I did not have to fight the battle alone. 

Since my blog always post my most recent entry first, I felt it necessary to share with those finding my blog for the first time, or perhaps those revisiting it for the hundredth time, scriptures of encouragement.  I realize that not everyone who reads this is spiritual, religious, or a believer in Christ.  However, I believe that if you are reading this posting, it is not by coincidence.  No matter your circumstance, God is the only one who can truly heal, restore, and renew.  I pray that the scriptures below will bring you comfort and encouragement. 

God Bless!!

Proverbs 3: 5-6 
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; and in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.

John 14:18
I will not leave you desolate; I will come to you.

Romans 5: 3-4
Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.

Romans 8:26
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness.  We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.

Isaiah 41:10
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:13
For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; and I will help you.

Matthew 6:8
Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

Psalm 5:8
Lead me, O Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies-------make straight your way before me.

Psalm 139: 13-14
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.  I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful

1 Samuel 17:47
All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord's, and he will give all of you into our hands.

Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous.  Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

Philippians 4: 6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Cancer CANNOT take my Spirit!!

It has been several weeks since I have posted anything....and I suppose that it is a good thing!  Life has been good and life has been.....BUSY!  Everyday I am encouraged by the number of people finding my blog, reading my blog, and sharing my blog with others.  I love knowing that God is using me to encourage others...whether that be newly diagnosed women, or those dealing with a different struggle.  Whatever it is,  I pray that God would continue to use my blog to reach those needing encouragment and hope.  When I was newly diagnosed, I came across a video on You Tube titled "Stepping Into The Ring."  I watched it daily and each time it gave me great strength.  After almost a year, I watched it again tonight.  I have to say, it gave me the same strength and encouragement as two years ago and I wanted to share it with everyone who reads my blog!  Enjoy and GOD BLESS!!!

Stepping Into the Ring by Nicole Johnson