May 2020—I’m sure many people still remember this time, when the world shuts down due to a pandemic. For me, though, this time was different. It became a season of deep reflection. In May 2020, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. For many, such a diagnosis would undoubtedly stir up fear and anxiety, but for me, it was a wake-up call. God showed me that the path I was walking was not pleasing to Him. I was living in fear, anxiety, and sin.
Now, I’m not saying that God gave me cancer. What I am saying is that He used this diagnosis to open my eyes to His love in a way I never expected. The moment I was told I had cancer, I felt a strange peace.
“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 41:10 (NIV)
For years, I had not been walking the path God wanted me to walk. But in that moment, God gently reminded me, “Hello, I am here. Come home.” And with love, He walked me back to Himself, reminding me that I do not have to fear. The weeks ahead brought biopsies, ultrasounds, and an MRI to prepare for surgery. This would be my first MRI, and I had no idea what to expect. On the day of the test, I was told I would need an IV contrast and was given the instructions to remain completely still. If I moved, they would have to reschedule and repeat the process. I have to admit, I do not like needles. As I lay there, vulnerable and exposed, my heart began racing, and my fear of moving overwhelmed me. My mind was spinning, and then, in that quiet, still moment, I heard a small voice say, “Pray.”
“Pray?” I thought. What do I pray?
Again, I heard the voice: “Pray.”
So, I began to pray silently, and then I started to sing in my mind. The song began to synchronize with the rhythm of the MRI. As I sang, my heart calmed, my mind quieted, and a deep peace fell over me.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” —John 14:27 (NIV)
God's love flooded me with a peace that stopped fear in its tracks. The next thing I knew, the nurse was gently waking me up. Yes, waking me up! God had put me to sleep. I had thought I moved or had been in there for just five minutes, but the nurse told me, “No, you were answering my questions, and you did not move at all. We’re done.” Wow. God’s love is so powerful. He can stop fear and even put us to sleep when we need it most. This experience reaffirmed the truth of this promise:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” —Proverbs 3:5–6
When we lean on our own understanding, we do ourselves an injustice. But when we lean on God, listen to His voice, and obey Him, His love is more than enough. It is abundant.
Reflection Questions:
- When have you felt God’s peace in a moment you least expected or during a difficult season?
- In what areas of your life might you be relying on your own understanding instead of trusting Him fully?
A Note from Loved Beyond Measures
We’re honored to share Maddie’s journey and the powerful ways God’s love reveals itself in unexpected places. Her words offer a powerful reminder that even in life’s hardest seasons, we are deeply loved and never alone. As a gifted writer and published author, Maddie Frazier published A Daily Walk in the Temple. Click the link to learn more about her book and be inspired by her reflections.
Check out A Daily Walk in the Temple.