Wednesday, June 13, 2012

We choose to be encouraged!

We are in Infusion, 3rd floor, CTCA, Zion Illinois.    We drove out yesterday – beautiful weather.  It was very warm when we left home, but got cooler as we drove west.  It was 50 degrees here this morning, so I am glad we thought ahead enough to bring a jacket.  It always seems cooler here than at home!

Today's blood work showed the CEA down slightly which is a really good thing.  The last time he was on Avistan, the CEA started out high, went a bit higher, and then dropped after 2 treatments. We kind of expected that the CEA might even go up a bit so we are happy that it has leveled out at this point.   

Dr. Neelam talked to us about clinical study that is going on that she feels Arnie could take advantage of.  It is for a maintenance treatment that would be available for patients whose cancer has become stable. She is saying that we will see how his cancer responds to the treatment we are on now and then decide about the maintenance treatment.  She is very upbeat and encouraging. We have another treatment is 3 weeks, and then scans after that.

Today’s scripture from the daily Turning Point Devotional email is:

"Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me."
John 14:1

  The power of choice is an underutilized tool in the spiritual toolbox. Usually, where the will goes the emotions will follow. For instance, Jesus told His disciples, "Let not your heart be troubled" when they learned He would be leaving them. Where did Jesus place the responsibility to remain encouraged? Squarely on the disciples. It was their choice not to let their hearts be troubled.

 Too often we allow ourselves to become victims of circumstances as if we have no choice, no say in the matter. But according to Jesus, we can choose to be encouraged.

Make this an encouraging day in the Lord--by choice.

Joy is not an accident of temperament or an unpredictable providence; joy is a matter of choice.
J. I. Packer

As many times before, these words are very timely for us! 

There is power in prayer and it works!  Please keep us in your prayers and thank you so much for caring for us!

2 comments:

  1. I continue to pray for you both. Your at a great place. I miss going there so much. It sounds as things are going pretty well, which is always a blessing. You both continue to stay strong as this cancer is such a tough battle.

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  2. We will continue to pray for both of you. May he hold you both in the palm of his hand during this time. Stay positive--it is amazing how much a positive attitude can help in these situations!
    Sending lots of positive and warm vibes your way!XO

    Betsy and Rick Byersmith

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