Matthew 7: Keep on Asking, Seeking, and Knocking

Matthew 7:7-8
Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC)

⁷ Keep on asking and it will be given you; keep on seeking and you will find; keep on knocking [reverently] and [the door] will be opened to you.

⁸ For everyone who keeps on asking receives; and he who keeps on seeking finds; and to him who keeps on knocking, [the door] will be opened.

The Lord has promised me that 2016 will be filled with "amazing surprises."  The year is not even halfway complete, and I already have been experiencing the promised "amazing surprises."  My older son is being blessed with new career opportunities, my younger son has returned home from living in Kansas since September, my husband is managing hypertension with diet and exercise, and I have been promoted at work to a position, which I did not seek.

All of these "amazing surprises" have been answers to prayers, and all have been the result of asking the Lord to intervene regarding issues touching my heart, seeking God's will regarding various situations, and then knocking reverently and persistently on the "door to the throne room."  

I look forward to the remainder of 2016 with faithful expectation, denying any doubt that attempts to stir anxiety while I await for the fulfillment of longstanding unanswered prayers.  Abba is a good, good Father.  He gives me the desires of my heart and blessings for which I hadn't even imagined asking. 

Matthew 2: Receiving Answers Requires Asking

Matthew 2:12
Classic Edition (AMPC)

12 And receiving an answer to their asking, they were divinely instructed and warned in a dream not to go back to Herod; so they departed to their own country by a different way.

One of the many privileges of a relationship with God is that we don't need to make decisions alone.  As a matter of fact, we shouldn't make our decisions apart from Him.

Being tuned in to His still small voice, heeding a dream, listening carefully to a sermon, reading the Bible are some of the ways to hear what God is saying.  

But the key here is asking!  

The verse above refers to the wise men who asked then received divine instruction.  This isn't the first time the Bible directs us to ask in order to receive.

Matthew 21:22

Classic Edition (AMPC)

22 And whatever you ask for in prayer, having faith and [really] believing, you will receive.

Asking the Holy Spirit for direction and wisdom takes the pressure off us.  Sons and daughters ask their dad for what they need.  Why wouldn't we do the same with our Heavenly Father?

Did the wise men sense the evil intent of King Herod after they asked him "Where is He Who has been born King of the Jews?" Was it their personal habit to consult God regarding their travel routes?  I don't know.  

What I do know is they received an answer to their asking.

Make it your habit to ask the Lord for direction and anticipate His answer.  He is a Perfect Father and will never give you faulty directions.

Lord, thank You for Your consistent direction over the course of my life.  I'm so thankful that I don't need to plot out my own directions and make my decisions independently!  Praise and honor be to You, my Navigator.  AMEN!!!  

Luke 2:1-38: Seeking the Face of God by Grace

Luke 2:36-38 

Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC)

³⁶ And there was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old, having lived with her husband seven years from her maidenhood,

³⁷ And as a widow even for eighty-four years. She did not go out from the temple enclosure, but was worshiping night and day with fasting and prayer.

³⁸ And she too came up at that same hour, and she returned thanks to God and talked of [Jesus] to all who were looking for the redemption (deliverance) of Jerusalem.

I remember when the Holy Spirit revealed to me the symbolism in these verses.  A feeling of Holy excitement stirred my spirit as I thought about the name of Anna's father, Phanuel.  

You might ask, what is so special about that name?  Often, the Bible uses genealogy as a descriptor of a biblical character.  The name Phanuel is special because of its meaning, "the face of God."  Think of it using your holy imagination.  As a child, Anna gazed adoringly into her earthy father's face.  See loved and sought for intimacy with her daddy. This was a foreshadow of what was to come.

The prophetess, Anna, was one who dedicated her life to God through fasting and prayer.  She sought the "face of God."  Intimacy with her heavenly Father through worship and prayer was her desire both night and day.  After eighty-four years of seeking the face of God through worship, was graced to see Jesus physically! 

That revelation was one that solidified my desire to worship God, to seek His face.  Anna's desire was stirred by grace, and it wasn't surprising to discover that Anna's name means grace.

Anna and I have much in common.  God has reminded us of His grace through our given names.  Over the course of my life, I could have been destroyed physically, emotionally and spiritually, BUT for grace, I continue to seek the face of my heavenly Daddy.  And for as long as I live on this earth, I will continue to gaze adoringly.  

As you walk your personal path into eternity, remember to seek the face of God, and His grace will flow.  Be thankful for life, for destiny, and for the season of New Beginnings!

Relay For Life Event

Dear Beautiful Grace Readers,

I have been invited to speak at a Relay For Life event at Wilkes University on April 18th.  My story of breast cancer will be expressed to students, professors and community participants highlighting the power of God to empower to climb any mountain as an Overcomer!

I humbly ask that you would pray for me to be BOLD and to SPEAK CLEARLY about the wonders of God's love.  Pray that every heart would be touched by His Spirit and encouraged to face and conquer whatever mountain is faced with Him!!!

Love you all!

Beautiful Grace

http://www.wilkes.edu/news/today-at-wilkes/2015/march/relay_for_life.aspx

I Wish We'd All Been Ready

 

 

Yesterday, while running outside on the beautiful spring day, I was praying for a group of people as I listened to DC Talk's "I Wish We'd All Been Ready." I looked up and saw this... 
 
I think God heard my prayer, don't you? LOVE!



Spiritual Self-evaluation

Reprint from my Facebook status from November 7th.


Spiritual self-evaluation is a periodic necessity.

Holy Spirit, examine my heart-it's motives, thoughts and attitudes. My desire is that no earthly thing would influence my soul in a way that is displeasing to You.

Give me the grace to forgive continued and longstanding offenses. You forgave me, Lord! Touch those who have no comprehension of how their actions, words and attitudes have hurt me and others.

Holy Spirit sensitize us to You...Your ways, Your attitudes, Your Holiness!!! Break down our self-erected walls of which the evil one has had little influence, except an occasional whispering lie.

You are my Defense! You are my Desire! You give joy that cannot be snuffed out by circumstances. Your fruit draws others to You when that fruit is truly grown by the Spirit's influence.

It's not about a human personality, whether charismatic or sweet. It's all about representing Your character through the uniqueness You have woven into each of us.

I come to You again this day of November 7th, 2012 at 10:57 am, asking for grace, requiring Your power to flow through me.

My life will make a difference for You, Lord. I will touch others for You, stirring life and hope. Prince of Peace, be my Guide. No thing can be accomplished through striving, but only through submitting to You.

I am Yours...FOREVER!

Your own,
Beautiful Grace

Even As My Soul Prospers

Dear Praying Friends and Family,

 

My soul has been prospering!  Thankfulness has been overwhelming my soul for all the wonderful blessings the Lord has been lavishing on me.  Peace and rest now rule a soul once stirred by every storm front.  That is reality, and it does not change with this new storm development.

 

Yesterday, my plastic surgeon checked an area of suspicion on my right side afterwards declaring that it must be surgically removed for biopsy.  He feels it may be scar tissue or possibly a lymph node.  The formation of scar tissue would be a normal result of all the surgical procedures from 2011, but being able to feel a lymph node is not normal.

 

I am scheduled for surgery on September 26th at Harrisburg Hospital.

 

 

Please Pray...

 

*that the lump is benign. 

 

*that it is not a lymph node.  The more lymph nodes removed, the more chance for lymph edema, which would cause swelling in my arm and an increased risk for infection.

 

*that my soul continues in peace and rest.

 

*that my life would shine as an example of what trusting Jesus looks like no matter what type of storm presents.

 

*that my men (Strongman, Consecrated and Fire) would walk out their destinies and not be distracted by my physical challenges.

 

 

I just completed another race this past Saturday and continue to see increased strength and health rise up in me!  My physical body IS prospering just like my soul is prospering! 

 

 

Thank you for standing with me in prayer as the Holy Spirit directs!

 

My Love Continues Always...

Beautiful Grace

 

 

3 John 1:2

Amplified Bible (AMP)

² Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in every way and [that your body] may keep well, even as [I know] your soul keeps well and prospers.

Risk It in the Name of Love

Dear Blogging Friends and Family,


Just a note of update from my oncologist check up last week.  All is well!  All of my lab results fell within the normal range.  My physical exam was fantastic as well.  My oncologist is putting the finishing touches on his new book, which addresses lifestyle as important preventative and healing therapy for cancer.  He said, "We need to eat like Adam and Eve."  :)


The high point of my visit was a dear lady in the waiting area who Holy Spirit "highlighted" to me.  I felt drawn to her, but didn't think I'd have the opportunity to speak with her as she and her husband left the office just before me.  I silently prayed blessing on her while finishing my paperwork.  I left the office making my way to the elevator where, wouldn't you know it, stood the woman and her husband waiting.  Getting close to her, I saw the familiar bump of a JP drain under her shirt.  As we made our way onto the elevator, I decided to risk it.  I broke elevator etiquette by declaring I had a bilateral mastectomy last year.  The woman's eyes opened wide as she declared she had just undergone a unilateral mastectomy.  I was able to share some of the awesome interventions of God during my experience last year.  I thought this woman would start crying when I offered to pray for her right there on the elevator.  Her eyes opened wide as she accepted my offer.  We hugged each other tightly as I declared the power of Jesus over cancer.  We were on the elevator so long that it alarmed twice...OOPS! 


I tell you all this because you just never know how a "simple prayer" rooted in love will positively affect and bless other people.  I encourage all of you to risk it in the name of love. 
Thank you all again for all of the support you have offered since my diagnosis day December 27, 2010.  You all can share as Victorious Overcomers of cancer because when one of us wins, all of us share in the spoils of that victory!!!


Words cannot express my gratitude and love for ALL of you!


Always with love...
Beautiful Grace

Health Update: The Bride of Christ is Beautiful!

Dear Friends,

My health has been flourishing!  I continue with my dietary and exercise changes, and I am seeing much improvement in my clarity of thought, muscular strength, endurance, and complexion...all benefits from a healthy lifestyle!

The only physical difficulty that has resurfaced is an old right lower back and hip issue.  I believe that toning my muscles without proper stretching is the cause.  My wonderful friend, Pure-hearted Prayer, prayed for me and it resolved only to resurface two days ago.  It really hurts as it pinches my sciatic nerve and sends electric pain from my hip to my big toe; It even interferes with my sleeping during the times it is aggravated.

I met with my oncologist yesterday.  I had had a series of hormonal tests completed approximately 3 weeks ago, which according to his point of view, were great.  He commented, "You must be doing something right."  He also said, "I think you've seen enough doctors lately.  I won't need to see you until January."  :)  He admitted it was difficult for him as a doctor not to prescribe medication, but he didn't place any pressure on me.  :)

Surgery in order to replace the expander on the left side and to insert the permanent prosthesis on the right is scheduled for tomorrow.  I am not scared, but I do feel a sense of hesitation in regards to this procedure.  Memories of the left side's infection are most probably the cause. 

Praises

• I have had opportunities to prophetically encourage others!  It's how God made me, and enjoy expressing His love in this way!!!
• I am now running exactly 1/2 of the 5k distance and walk the remainder.  I am planning on actually competing in an official race the end of September.  My goal is to run the entire distance.
• I have added swimming laps to my exercise routine and now am able to swim 400 yards in 12 minutes!  Thank you, Chrispy for encouraging me in my exercise routine.
• I am learning more and more about alternative foods. 
• I found a non-dairy, non-soy, cheese substitute and was excited to be able to eat a toasted cheese sandwich again.  ;) 
• Eating "Beautiful Grace's Frozen Treat" has curbed my summertime craving for ice cream.  ;)
• My family, friends, and co-workers continue to show their support and love.  Can anyone say, "BLESSED"?!?!
• The fear of man thing has attempted to resurface a few times, BUT God immediately intervened before any agitation of soul could commence.  Yay, Jesus!!! :)
• The Lord is reminding me of what I tell my patients.  I cannot change the thoughts, words or behavior of others.  I can only choose my response to them...my thoughts, my words, my behavior.  My choice is to forgive and love, love, love!!!  No evil hook will be lodged in me!!!
• According to the blood test, my cortizol level is within normal limits.  This hormone is released when the body undergoes physical and/or emotional stress.  Man's test confirms the peace I have been experiencing in my soul.  Yay, Jesus!!!
• The blood test also revealed a level of testosterone as low as a post menopausal woman????  I guess you all won't have to worry about me turning into a hulkette any time soon.  :) 

Prayer

• Continued peace...
• No infection or any other adverse reaction from tomorrow's surgery in the name of Jesus!!!
• I am losing more time at work, so please pray for financial provision for our family.  Buying organic food has dramatically impacted the amount of money I spend for groceries each week!
• Complete resolution of my back/hip issue!
• That Strongman, Consecrated, Fire and I each would be drawn by the Holy Spirit, knitting our hearts to Jesus as individuals and as a family unit.
• Peace and strength for Strongman as he once again will care for me during my recovery.  He has much responsibility on his shoulders!

Knowing I am not alone during this season comforts me.  Thank you all for your continued love, support and prayers.  I continue to witness the beauty of the Bride of Christ as she moves as Jesus moves!!!  You all are BEAUTIFUL!!!

With Much Love and Appreciation Always...

Beautiful Grace :)

Health Update

My Dear Friends,




It's been a while since the last update and many of you have been asking how I've been. I am grateful you are thinking about me. Thank You! :)



Physically, I am stronger, trimmer, and have greater endurance. My lifestyle change has been steady with the dramatic overhaul in my dietary choices and regular physical exercise. Emotionally, I am amazed at the peace in which I continue to walk. Overall, I am much healthier now than prior to the diagnosis of cancer! Thank You, Jesus!!!



There has been some confusion regarding the surgeries that are coming up. I am scheduled for the next phase of reconstruction on July 15th in which the surgeon will remove the expander from my right side and replace it with a permanent prosthesis. The expander is kind of like a framed balloon filled with a saline solution, which is used to stretch out the chest muscle and surrounding tissue in order to create a pocket for the permanent implant. The surgeon will also place a new expander in my left side. Remember, that nasty infection I developed in the left side? The original expander had to be removed due to that infection and had not been replaced.



After the surgery, each week, the left expander will be injected with 60cc of saline solution until it matches the right side. After the expansion, then the area must "rest" as the pocket forms on the left. This takes about three months. The final surgery to place the permanent prosthesis will be sometime in November or December.



This year has been full of tests, procedures, surgeries, diagnoses, and decisions, but through it all, Jesus has been there guiding and leading! I will continue to praise my Good Shepherd!!!!







Prayer Requests:



That my oncologist would not be offended by my personal choice to not pursue traditional adjunctive therapy. "Adjunctive therapy refers to any treatment that is used in conjunction with another to increase the chance of cure, or to increase the first treatment's efficacy. In other words, adjunctive therapy acts as an aid to the primary treatment." (from About.com).



I still need more practice in managing my new diet. I am finding it difficult to eat all the food that has been recommended. I just never ate that huge volume of food previously.



That the Lord would give me creative ways to prepare the fish I eat. Eating the same thing day after day gets boring.



No more infections!!!!!!!



Resolution of the GERD (gastro esophegeal reflux disease) symptoms I have been experiencing. That Jesus would reveal what is aggravating this problem. When I stopped drinking coffee, I started drinking peppermint tea, which unknown to me relaxes the muscle at the top of the stomach, allowing the stomach acid to backflow up into the esophagus. This irritates the esophageal lining and causes a feeling of burning or fullness. I stopped the tea weeks ago, but still continue to have bouts of discomfort.



I honestly believe that the attack of cancer is minor compared with the Goliath God truly wants to slay in me. That Goliath is the fear of man. It reared its ugly head last week when the oncologist's secretary wouldn't schedule an appointment with me until she spoke with the doctor. It sounds ridiculous now, but that really upset my peace at the time. Being part of the medical community for ~27 years has shown me that it is not forgiving of people who don't follow physician's advice without question. It is not my intent to be "non compliant." It is my intent to obey Jesus!!!



I am scheduled for blood word after my next menstrual cycle. The oncologist wants to monitor the level of estrogen in my blood. He continues to recommend surgical removal of my ovaries, but I am not feeling the Lord leading in that direction. The oncologist does not recognize the sweeping changes in my lifestyle as therapy.



Praise Reports:



The grace God has been pouring out in me in order to change my lifestyle.



The peace in which I am eveloped.



That He meets all of our financial needs.



Even though my peace was attacked last week, I recovered it quickly be reminding myself of what God told me last Christmas prior to the diagnosis, "Do not trust in the horses and chariots of men. Trust in me."



How my friends protect me and are concerned about my well being.



I am planning to participate in a 5k race the end of September. My goal is to finish, not place.



For the gift of physicians/surgeons. They are the hand of God expressed whether they realize it or not.



For technology. Attached are some still shots of my recent PET scan. Be blessed to witness the glory of God through His creation!



Thank you all again for your continued concern and care! I love and appreciate all of you!!!



With Much Love Always...

Beautiful Grace :)

P.S. Some of you have asked about the specifics of my dietary changes, and I have been happy to share in detail. However, I do want to make it clear that I am not saying that all breast cancer should be treated in the way that I have chosen. Having a personal relationship with God means that He leads us personally. The way He leads me is different then the way He leads others. We are all unique and don't have "cookie cutter" destinies. Seek the Lord, listen to His direction, and then follow it.

Journey Through the Psalms Day 14

Read Psalm 14, 44, 74, 104, 134.

‎"Through You" my spiritual enemies are pushed down. "Through You" I am delievered. "Through You" the territory, which rightfully belongs to Your bride is recovered. "Through You" Your turtledove's life is rescued from the wild beast. "Through You" my disease has been healed. "Through You" my foundation remains fixed and firm. "Through You" I will sing praise to You as long as I live!!!

 
With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace

Journey Through the Psalms Day 13

Read Psalm 13, 43, 73, 103, 133.

...Until I went into the sanctuary of God. Your sanctuary, my Lord, is so much more than a building. You are my Sanctuary, my Refuge, where ever I am. In the midst of every situation, I can run to You to keep me. Hold my right hand and lead me. Counsel me. Apart from my "Sanctuary," there is turmoil and unrest, but with You there is Peace. Thank You! I am grateful!!!

With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace

Journey Through the Psalms Day 12

Reading Ps 12, 42, 73, 102, 132.

Dear, "Singing God," I love to think about You singing over me, especially in the night. Your sweet voice sooths my soul lulling me to sleep in deep peace. I will praise You yet more and more for Your loving-kindness. ♥

With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace

Journey Through the Psalms Day 11

Reading Psalm 11, 41, 71, 101, 131.

Lord, You have sustained me on my bed of languishing. Only You could have touched my body and saved, not only its mortal frame, but my soul within me. You provided peace during the healing, and I will praise you all the days of my life telling everyone I meet about Your goodness and miraculous ways. I love You, my "Healer and Comforter."

 
 
With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace

Journey Through the Psalms- Day 10

Reading today, Psalm 10, 40, 70, 100, 130.  Write your reflections.

Jesus, I remember the times when it felt like you were far away from me, but that was just a feeling. In my most desperate, dark nights, You were closer to me than my stirred emotions could sense. Then you broke through my agitated soul and revealed Yourself in ways that I thought not possible for a man to experience. Thank You, the "One Who Hears My Cries," for hearing me in my humility and oppression and for intervening on my behalf. I will love You forever!!!

With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace

"Journey Through the Psalms" Day 8

Read, what speaks to you through these chapters?  Psalm 8, 38, 68, 98, & 128.

I don't remember reading this verse previously, "The Lord gives the word [of power]; the women who bear and publish [the news] are a great host."  Psalm 68:11 Amp.  I will sing praises to my "Victorious Deliverer!"  I will proclaim His word of power to the people I meet!  I will use technological media to publish His mighty works!  My life, inside and outside of the church will shine with His glory, because there is no thing in me to mar its reflection.  Praise be to my "Victorious Deliverer," Who empowers me with "impenetrable hardness" in the face of temptation!  You, Who has led captivity captive, will I serve all the days of my life and throughout eternity!!!

With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace

Mountain Removed: New Life and New Beginnings!!!

Dear Victorious and Faithful Friends,




The Monday after this past Christmas, I received a pathology report stating that I had breast cancer. Today, the Monday after Easter (Resurrection Day), I received the results of the PET scan from last week...no metastasis!!! Jesus was born to take our sins, heal our diseases and provide a way for us to be with Him throughout eternity. I do not believe in coincidences. The report declaring the resolution of cancer coming today is just another example of how my God speaks, and I believe He is saying to all of us that His resurrection makes "New Life and New Beginnings" possible, whether a disease needs to be eradicated or our sins need to be wiped away. Today is the day of "New Life and New Beginnings." Let's seize this gift by giving ourselves unreservedly to Jesus, accepting His free gift of salvation in its fullest measure!!!





Many Praises!



I continue to follow Peace no matter the pressure applied to my soul to do otherwise.



This morning I typed out, "The PET scan came back negative." I declared the good report in obedience to a prompting of His Spirit before I physically received the report of no metastasis to any other place in my body!!!



I have resumed my regular work schedule and duties.



Strongman and I celebrated the Passover Seder last Thursday with some dear friends (Thank you, Dave and Lori). This celebration was of special significance to me as I am a living example of the "Death Angel passing over."



I received the second MRSA culture results this morning, which came back as negative. I am officially clear of infection as per Pinnacle Health System policy!



My lifestyle has dramatically changed. I now exercise at least 5 days a week, walking/running 3 miles (5 K) each day. Dairy has been eliminated from my diet , as well as, processed sugar, caffeine, and butter/margarine. My meat (animals that walk on land) intake has been severely restricted, while I am blessed to enjoy salmon three times a week.



My new oncologist has described himself as "a worker bee in the hands of God." I'm not sure if he has a personal relationship with Jesus, but he does respect my beliefs.



It's wonderful to feel great and have some energy! This in itself has been a miraculous transformation as I have been a "tired person" since my teens. The cause of my fatigue was most probably "estrogen dominance." Which is being treated by my change in diet and exercise. http://www.estrogendominanceguide.com/symptoms-of-estrogen-dominance-in-women



Strongman has encouraged me to stand in what my heart tells me in regards to further treatment and gives me a complimentary viewpoint with his logical, left-brained way of thinking. He has the ability to see through the fog to the point of an issue. Since I tend to process with my heart, he balances me.



Continued Prayer

The PET scan did show some esophageal irritation, which I'm thinking is due to the stress of two surgeries, the infection, and all the Motrin I was taking for pain relief. I took Motrin, because the narcotic made me "loopy." ;) The oncologist wants me to take Tums with calcium before supper each day. I was just asking Jesus over the weekend if I was getting enough calcium in my diet. I love the way He answers me.



The blood results were normal and according to the doctor, "You are no where close to menopause." I take this as a praise, but in the doctor's eyes this is not good. As long as my ovaries pump out estrogen, the chance of reoccurrence of cancer is higher. I want God's direction on this, ovaries release different types of estrogen, some of which are cancer preventative.



My next surgery will be in July, please pre-pray against complications. I don't want any more infections!



Thank you all for standing with me. "Beautiful" is the only word that can describe the support I have received throughout this season of trial. Jesus has shown me that with Him, we can have peace no matter what circumstances envelope us, and in that peace, His power is released!!!



With Much Love Always...

Beautiful Grace :)



P.S. The attachment shows some of my flowers. I choose them because yellow signifies a gift from God and the red stripes are symbolic for the stripes Jesus took for my healing. Be blessed my friends!!!



Mountain Removed!

Dear Friends,


Having a PET scan tomorrow at 9:45am. Please pray that no metastasis is found.

You are ALL a blessing to me!


With Much Love ALWAYS,

Beautiful Grace

Mountain Removal: Praises & Prayers

Dear Friends,




Several weeks ago, the oncologist I spoke with was a nice man, but I could feel the pressure he was placing on my spirit as he declared multiple times. "This is how we're going to treat your cancer." He verbally considered my prayerful decision of a bilateral mastectomy as "not logical." I want a doctor who respects me and my beliefs, so I spoke to my family practice physician on Monday, who recommended an oncologist "who would appreciate a patient who knows what she wants."



This past Wednesday, I spoke to my breast surgeon to get her recommendation of an oncologist who felt continued treatment was not necessary. (Remember, 50% of the oncologists at the conference said further treatment was not needed) She brought up the oncologist whom my family practice doctor recommended saying, "I don't like him," but she didn't elaborate. She didn't give me the name of another oncologist, but continued to say, in reference to the oncologist I saw initially, "He is the smartest man I know." I believe Intelligence without the guidance of God's Spirit can be a dangerous mix.



On Thursday, I sat at the kitchen table considering the reality that I don't have an oncologist with whom I am comfortable. I said out loud to Strongman, "I don't know what to do." Then I said out loud to Jesus, "Jesus, I don't know what to do. Help me." I wasn't upset, just a little perplexed. I decided to go downstairs to check my computer for any emails. Approximately, five minutes after telling Jesus that I didn't know what to do, my cell phone rang. My prophetic friend called me from work, she felt an urgency to call immediately, just to tell me about an oncologist who a co worker's wife saw for breast cancer. He is a miracle believing, born again Christian! Sounds like my kind of doctor.



Jesus, truly is my Shepherd Who leads me in perfectly. We sang a song in church on Saturday night declaring Psalm 23 whose words mean more to me now than ever before. I couldn't help but dance in praise of my Best Friend Who continually imparts peace, direction, and wisdom to me. This Man Whom I Love, answers my cries for help and guidance. He deserves ALL of my worship in this life and in the life I will share with Him throughout eternity!!!







Praises:

• For the generous monetary gift we received on Saturday. We Love you guys!!!

• The nutritional/lifestyle advice I received on Wednesday was a confirmation of much of what I already am doing.

• The infectious disease nurse practitioner's eyes lit up when she saw how great my left side looked.

• I completed two weeks of half shifts completing desk work without difficulty.

• I am exercising and getting stronger each day.

• I have lost weight, and am eating a lot of food. It's amazing how much more food a person can eat, when choosing low fat, healthy foods.

• I am scheduled for my regular job this afternoon.

• Although well-meaning Christians indirectly insinuate that cancer is the result of wrong doing on my part, their opinions have not affected my soul. I know the heart of my Jesus. He leads me perfectly with the Love of a Bridegroom; He doesn't drive me with whips forcing me to go His way. That is not the God I serve.

• For Jesus Who leads me perfectly!!!

Prayers:

• That my spiritual ears and eyes would be open to Jesus' leading constantly.

• That I would be able to work without undue fatigue, which I have been battling at times.

• That the days of my life would be steps towards my destiny in Jesus, not just days spent.

• That those who come into contact with me would see God's glory through my words and actions.

• That my soul would continue to be protected from "well-meaning Christians." Jesus, touch them and reveal Your heart and Your ways. Make their hearts like Your heart.

• That I would be able to see the born again oncologist quickly. I want closure to this bump in the path of my destiny as soon as possible.

Thank you all for all you do. Prayers, hugs, kind words of encouragement reflect the Love of Jesus!



Blessings to you all!



With Much Love...

Beautiful Grace :)

Mountain Removal: Feeling Great and Going Back to Work!

Dear Caring and Praying Friends,


This morning permission was given for me to return to work on "desk duty," 1/2 shifts for two weeks and return to normal job duties after that! Last week, the infectious disease doctor gave his approval to return to work! Today was my third specialist appointment since the previous e-mail; there is much more great news to report!

Last Wednesday, the breast surgeon informed me that the "tumor" from the left side, which was sent to California for the special genetic testing, had been rejected twice due to "not enough material." Each cell, normal/cancerous, has its own genetic code. What I hear in the statement, "not enough material" is that they couldn't find even one cancer cell to check its genes. Praise God!!! She then told me that my case was presented at a breast conference of breast surgeons and oncologists, because it was so unusual. She said half the oncologists recommended chemotherapy and herceptin, while the other half said it wasn't necessary.

Again, she expressed her recommendation for me to begin Tamoxifen (estrogen hormone blocker) or as an alternative, if I desire, to surgically have my ovaries removed. NOT!!! I feel Peace about not pursuing further treatments and ended up canceling the oncologist's appointment for this week. I am learning alternative ways to curb any "extra estrogen" in my system through diet and exercise, and have learned some shocking things about what I have been eating. My lifestyle requires a "makeover," but I am willing! I will have a "buff body by fifty!" :)

Praises:

· I am able to go back to work!



· "Not enough material" was found to genetically test!



· 50% of the oncologists agreed with my point of view!


· I continue in perfect Peace in regards to this situation!



· The infection is almost gone. There are two red spots and very slight swelling, but I am still taking antibiotics!



· I have not taken any pain medicine or valium for chest cramps since last week!



· I was able to attend worship service this past Sunday, the 1st time in several weeks! I really missed corporate worship and all the great loving I get from my CCC friends!!!



· The plastic surgeon gave his approval for stretching and light weight training.

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· The continued support of ALL of you who care about and Love me. I am the richest woman in the world!!!





Prayers:

· That my transition back to work would be smooth and without undue fatigue.



· That the infection would leave even more quickly.



· That I continue hearing direction from the Holy Spirit regarding my lifestyle. A few days ago, I heard Him say a single food item. Then, I had an impression to check out estrogen levels in that item, which turns out is higher here in the US than other countries. God truly is my Daddy telling me what to do and not to do!



· That I don't become offensive in my attitude towards any of the specialists who are treating me. They truly are only recommending what they have been taught, which factors out God entirely. I like my doctors, even though I don't see eye-to-eye with them at times.



· That this affliction would not rise up a second time!!!



With Much Love ALWAYS...

Beautiful Grace :)