I’ve shared previously about Psalm 23, and that is what again inspired this update today. In verse 4 of Psalm 23 it states that with God, we walk THROUGH the valley. However, I failed to share the importance of the remaining part of this sentence. Psalm 23:4b
“for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”
This morning God revealed to me that His rod and staff can be seen through two lenses. With God on our side, His rod and staff COMFORT; conversely, God uses them to protect His sheep (us) and therefore when used to defend, they cause CHAOS for satan. This week we have seen evidence of God’s staff and rod at work in Murphy’s body to protect and heal our brave boy. Nat and Glenda were able to have a longer consult with the oncologist yesterday to understand the results of the progress scans that were done earlier in the week. We’ve seen a miracle in the reduction of the Primary Tumor – to all those who prayed , please let this stir your faith.
Here is a snapshot of the conversation:
Praise Reports:
1. Impressive reduction in Murphy’s primary tumor (God, we thank you for your staff and rod that is fighting against this cancer!). This is a great outcome because some Neuroblastoma is not sensitive to chemotherapy, meaning for some patients, the doctor has to inform them that the chemo is ineffective. This is not the case for Murphy, praise God.
2. Murphy’s joy despite challenges. Murphy’s energy, smiles and attitude has been remarkable amid great trials.
3. Based on the most recent scan, the doctor’s treatment plan is still treating to cure!
Prayer points:
1. This next cycle of chemo that Murphy has started is very effective in killing Neuroblastoma but has devastating side effects with extreme nausea and vomiting expected.
2. Most children experience permanent hearing loss after this chemotherapy cycle. We are believing Murphy will be one of the few who don’t!
3. There is a risk with this type of chemotherapy that at the end of this 18-month treatment for Neuroblastoma Murphy will be more susceptible to another types of cancer, we are again believing that this will not be the case!
4. Prayer also for the amazing oncology team managing Murphy’s case, for wisdom navigating the constant developments and treatment responses
5. Pray for Daniel and the other three children as they miss living with Murphy and mum! Ted, Hugo and Calista all have three more weeks left of school.
I was teaching our kids at home this week about a method of prayer, ACTS. Our family has been praying in this manner, always making sure we thank God for who He is, and what He has done:
Adoration – Thanking God for who He is
Confession – Confess sins
Thanks – Thanking God for what He has done, and is doing
Supplication – Presenting prayer requests before God
Within our family, and yours, I know God has heard our great praise for what He has done, as well as our prayer requests. Thank you for joining our family towards the miracle that is taking place in Murphy’s body.
My prayer is that God’s staff and rod comforts you too in whatever situation you’re in!
