It was this time last year—somewhere between November and New Year’s—I sat down to dream about 2014.
As a speaker, I try to develop new keynote presentations every year. And I spend the final weeks of one year brainstorming ideas for the next. But I was stumped. Should I talk about Family? Leadership? Complicated relationships? Faux-leather handbags?
Then I read Exodus 13-14. I don’t have space to unpack the whole complicated drama. Besides, you really should read it for yourself. It’s quite a story. Here’s the short of it:
Moses and the Israelites were on their way to the Promised Land. After years of suffering in Egypt, the good life stretched up ahead. No more pain. No more suffering. No more hunger. No more fear.
But then the unexpected happened, right there within reach of relief.
An inpenetrable Red Sea ahead.
An army of blood-thirsty Egyptians behind.
Talk about bad luck and bad timing. They prayed for deliverance. And instead got a disaster.
As I read the story, I thought how you and I are like the Israelites. We know how it feels to be trapped with backs against a wall. We know the agony of seeing the Promised Land from a distance, but discovering it’s out of reach. We know how terror can grab the throat and refuse to let go. And we know we can pray, pray, pray for one thing and get another. Angry, afraid, we shake fists at the sky.
Enough already! ENOUGH!
Suffice it to say, my head snapped up after that afternoon hanging out in Exodus 13-14. I knew exactly what my theme would be for 2014.
Fearless.
So, in November and December last year, I developed a whole series of Fearless messages.
{And t-shirts. I made t-shirts.}
I thought I was doing it for YOU. So you would know how to live fearless in the face of impossible odds.
I didn’t know it would rescue ME.
*deep breath*
Last week I went to the doctor for my regular eight-week check-up. I hoped it would be a normal appointment. A few weeks ago, a new lump appeared under my tongue. Even so, I’d had a clean PET scan on September 30, and I reassured myself all was well.
Last Friday I found out otherwise.
The cancer is back. For the third time in four years.
On November 25, two days before Thanksgiving, I will have another major surgery. {did I mention Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday?!} This surgery will be far more serious than the last two, approximately 9 hours long, requiring a full week in the hospital. After four or five weeks of recovery, I’ll start intense radiation, possibly chemo. Then, in January or February, I’ll have another major hospitalization and surgery and more radiation.
Although my docs are confident they can kick this once and for all, I’m told the next six months will be an earthly hell. I’ll spare you the specifics, but I believe it. I’ve cleared my calendar, cancelled all projects and engagements. No eating. No speaking. No traveling and connecting and doing what I love. At least not for quite some time.
This is not what I dreamed of for 2014. This is not what I imagined when twelve months ago I read Exodus 13-14 and plotted out a series of presentations. This is not what I anticipated in March when I faced—and conquered—cancer and a tough surgery. And this is certainly not I wanted two months after a heartbreaking goodbye.
It’s all too much, my friends. I’m tired. My family is tired. And although we’ve prayed and wished and pleaded for our Promised Land, I cannot do a thing about this darn Red Sea.
But here’s the sweet news: I’m covered with peace. A deep, consuming, fearless peace. Why? I’ve been here before, in the middle of impossible situations. And every time—EVERY SINGLE TIME—my God has shown up. Fear is a waste in the face of such a Deliverer.
Besides, I’ve discovered a delicious little secret about Red Sea moments:
A miracle waits in the middle of it.
Red Seas are front-row seats for Divine displays. When it looks like there’s no way out? That’s when glory shows up. When you think you don’t have the strength for one more day? That’s when God’s mighty arm reaches down to ease your load. Don’t know if you can stop crying, for all you’ve lost? He grabs a jar, collects your tears and says, “I see! I hear! And I will not let you go!”
This isn’t a trite cliche. It’s what I know to be true, through heartbreak after heartbreak. I don’t how God is going to get me through my Red Sea to my Promised Land. I don’t have a clue how he’s going to show up and show off.
I just know he will.
That’s enough for me.
No fear. Only faith.
Join me?
What’s your Red Sea? Join me in looking for the miracles in the middle of it. Grab a journal, a pen, ask God to give you eyes to see, and then … get ready to WRITE. It’s coming.
Michele, thanks for your vulnerability in sharing what you are going through and the stance you are taking in the face of overwhelming circumstances: Fearlessness. A fearlessness that is not of this world. The same fearlessness that exuded from Jesus when He faced the torment of the cross. The fearlessness of His Father. And you have that same fearlessness living in you. Praying that Christ’s Spirit will continually overwhelm you with His courageous love and healing power as you journey through the months ahead with Him. Praying for your family also.
Hello Michelle:
Wow. What a tough spot.
May God continue to bless you with abundant peace and surround you with the support you need. In His mercy may He release healing and rest to you.
Outside of the Bible, my greatest encouragement has come from the story and writings of Bob Sorge. He has an amazing story and a divine perspective on suffering and healing. If you want to learn more see: http://bobsorge.com/about-bob-sorge/.
Blessings!
Craig
Michelle- my heart wraps you in prayers. and it breaks with you, Our Red Sea is not in our plans….and yours . I pray for grace, strength and hope to hold you close.
The words you write in your journal will be the way you communicate, and tell of Gods grace in this hardest of places.
committed to prayers on your behalf.
Nancy Bouwens
Hi Michele,
I saw your IG post pop up on my feed this morning with your 4:20 a.m. picture. I had been laying on my couch for the past three hours in agonizing pain and feeling really sorry for myself. I checked my email a short while later and up popped your blog.
As I began reading it, I instantly connected. I identified with the Red Sea as I battle this horrific chronic pain that wants to steal my nights and my days from me.
Then I read a little further down your blog and everything changed…
It will be six years ago next week my husband went in for his second surgery for throat cancer. It altered our Thanksgiving that year, and it changed the course of our lives forever.
In an instant of reading your blog my Red Sea didn’t seen so overwhelming. And where I felt too weak to stand at my own Red Sea, I was suddenly empowered to stand at the edge of yours, shoulder to shoulder, declaring God to part the waters for you.
Since I stumbled upon your blog earlier this year God has had me pray for you. Your trips with WOF, as you said goodbye to your dad, and even when you posted about saying yes to more than you wished you had.
It’s the beauty of the body of Christ. We don’t have to know one another, or even get their permission to pray for them. We are just privileged to do so.
I understand first hand the journey you’re about to walk (again) and I wanted you to know you’ve got a sister in California standing in the wings lifting you up. So on those not so good days, just remember you’re not alone. I’m standing at the Red Sea holding up my staff for you, when you can’t hold up your own!
xoxox
Beth
Michele – I do not know whether I should cry tears for you or me or both! Thanks for wearing your thoughts on your sleeves. First, YOU will be ADDED to my prayer list.
God most assuredly has a way of preparing us for some things. Since the beginning of the year, the operative word in my life has been TRANSITION, coupled almost on a daily basis of seeing “11’s” on the clock in the middle of the night on a routine basis and everywhere else I turn.
The “11’s” are illustrative of one day ending and a new day beginning. I pray the NEW DAY for the both of us.
Your post is 100% an exact confirmation where God has had me parked since June. We saw a large theatrical production of MOSES (www.sight-sound.com) in Lancaster (PA). FRONT ROW seats!
I have rarely moved from the Exodus 1 – 14 account and in fact, will be teaching an adult Sunday School in early DEC with EX 14:14 as my home base.
I went to work this past Monday (11/10) to learn that my services are no longer needed. At this stage of life one would have liked to be more prepared financially. We are not where we were (in March 2013 paid off our last non-mortgage debt) but nowhere near where we would have hoped or liked to be as we have been in major catch up mode.
A few days before the job loss event, we had to replace our 337K mileage van to upgrade to a “new” 2004 version with extremely low miles and in great shape. We made the decision to go with as much cash as possible and took a minimal note.
Then the job loss.
Lot’s swirling around for sure. However, God is so on it…..and EX 14:14 STAY CALM and watch what the Lord will do has been fastened to my mind and heart.
I sincerely want to thank you for such a timely and candid post. When I saw he RED SEA MOMENTS describing your thoughts…..an immediate peace and a quiet laugh rolled over me.
God used you to affirm in me that all will be OK. THANK YOU again….Bruce
Michele. I woke in the night with fear crashing over me as I thought about the “waves” I am to soon go through with my own surgery, and then I remembered how many times God has parted the Red Sea for me….even during this current trial. And I have peace because I’ve seen him do it before…never failing.
“Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed, says the Lord who has compassion on you (Isaiah 55: 10). He is Sovereign and nothing touches you or me without passing through His hands first. And there’s a perfect reason it’s passing through. Our faith will come out as pure gold.
I’ll be praying for you daily and I know you are for me. And we’ll be wearing our “Fearless” T-shirts together.
Hi Michele,
That peace that passes all understanding. I pray it will stay with you as you go in these coming months.
I want to talk about my Red Sea, but it feels like a brook right now, not a deep see. So, let me use my space to pray for you and your family. I know God is a healer and trust in the promise. For today, your message is like Moses’ message to me.
God bless you.
Niels
I am adding you to my prayer list. So sorry you have to go through this, but thankful that already you have been and will continue to do it to give glory to God. Praying for you.
Please be encouraged. Know that you are revealing so much of the strength and beauty and the love that undergirds thevunfathomable challenges of faith. May a God feel God holding you and sustaining you in a mighty way as you endure. Love and courage sister. Hug
Michele, you are a treasured gift to all of us. May you walk through it all on dry land, and your peace continue as we who love you, are privileged and humbled to pray for you. What a light for Jesus; you shine big. Our God is faithful, as you have been faithful in believing it. Much love and prayers to you.
Dear Michele,
Few words, save these: What you write is True. Who He is is Faithful.
Here with you in spirit and prayer upon prayer.
Love,
Julie
My heart aches.
Michele, I’m so sorry. I’m praying for you and your family.
Oh sister,….. your deep trust in HIM has already BEATEN this cancer. He has set HIS LOVE upon you and has set you ABOVE all that tries to harm you.
My eyes see the miracle, friend!
Michele,
I am without words. Only tears. I do know though, as you do, that God will work His marvelous and wondrous good through this horrendous trial. He sees what lies ahead. May He get you through each day, one by one, hard as they will be. Many stand with you in faith and deep prayer; the prayers won’t stop. That’s a promise. My heart is absolutely breaking for you.
Michele,
I will commit to pray for you in the days and weeks to come. However, if this were a face-to-face conversation I would give you a hug and ask, “Can I please pray for you right now?” I believe you would say, “Yes.” So let me pray…
Father God I lift Michele to you. Lord she is your precious child. You love her. You watch over her. You delight in her. You are her strong tower and you have created a hedge of protection around her. Jesus I pray that no weapon formed against her will prosper. I pray that you guard her heart and her mind. I pray for wisdom and strength in the days ahead. I pray for peace. And I pray God give her the ability to walk this walk that I believe will be a testimony of Your grace, Your power, Your provision, and Your glory! And when she has walked through this trial I believe that she will once again have an awesome testimony to share of how you strengthened her faith. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Oh Michele, Troy and Family – Lifting you up during this Red Sea time. Praying for those miracle moments, hours and days. Satan really wants to “silence” you, dear one but don’t let him!
Dear Michele,
Your post recalled for me immediately a mini bio of Annie Johnson Flint on the hymnary.org website, which speaks of a “Red Sea place” in the life of this gifted woman who suffered, and gave, so much. Her once-beloved, now sadly neglected, hymn “He Giveth More Grace” has been to me, as a musician, a great solace through many a Red Sea crossing, and your post echoes so well all that this sister of ours in the faith believed, that God had laid her aside for a purpose, even though that purpose was often obscure.
The last seven years I have felt that tidal wave hovering over my path, and though I claimed I trusted God for the crossing, I realized by the end of 2013 that I was really just waiting to be drowned, or to be crushed by the pursuing chariots. I decided it was time to walk the walk, and one of the life-changing decisions I made was to attend the SCORRE conference in October. There were innumerable reasons why it wasn’t a good time, and everyone said “You can go next year” but I’d spent years putting things off till the “right time”, and I just went.
It was life-changing because I met you, Michele. Because you took the time to stop and speak with me, and because your story, your words, your attitude and manner and the expression of your faith, gave me more encouragement and strength for the journey in half an hour than I had encountered in years, if ever. Your closing message tore my heart and rebuilt it better than before.
I cannot and never would tell someone else that I know why they suffer (many can relate to being on the receiving end of such arrogant platitudes), but if we are the total of our days and experiences in Christ then I can say that what you are enduring has made you such a beautiful person, a sweet fragrance to our Savior, perfuming the lives of many.
I’ve a dear preacher friend who was diagnosed with the same condition as you in November 1989. He went through all you have described, so I know a little of the experience from the bedside perspective. For you, your husband and family, for your wider family in Christ, my prayers are with you, with much thanksgiving to God for all you have already written and said and done to enrich and empower others through your ministry of living.
As Annie Flint wrote: “When we reach the end of our hoarded resources / Our Father’s full giving is only begun.” To quote an equally gifted writer, “Fear is a waste in the face of such a Deliverer.” The Lord bless and keep you in the palm of His mighty hand.
P.S. Don’t let our dear Michael Hyatt tell you that “TuesdayWednesday” isn’t a real “day”. It’s a day in my universe too. We know you’re tired, and it will get worse before the springtime, but we love and appreciate it whenever you have the strength to share your thoughts, whatever day of the week…
Dear Michelle, I’m so so sad to hear this news. I will be praying faithfully for you. God has been speaking to me about the Red Sea as well and I wanted to share Psalm 77:16 with you. It says “When the Red Sea saw you, oh God, its waters looked and trembled! The sea quaked to its very depths. Then verse 19 Says “Your road lead through the sea, your pathway through the mighty waters – a pathway no one knew was there!”
God’s road is there and He will lead you through this.
Love, Glynnis
I love you, my sweet friend. You are a beautiful, brave, courageous, faithful princess warrior. Oh Victory in Jesus! Covering you in prayer today and every day. Xo
Praying for you, Michele. God is glorified in your no fear only faith perspective as you stand at the edge of your Red Sea. Danna
Michele, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I appreciate your honesty in sharing your feelings and the trials you are experiencing. Praying God gives you the comfort, strength, and all that you need day by day to get through your Red Sea Moments. I agree that God does prepare the way for us. In 2009 my Daddy began to feel un-well, and wasn’t officially diagnosed with lung cancer until Jan 2010. In our Ladies Class at church on Wed. nights we had begun studying Max Lucado’s book Fearless in Sep 2009 and unknown to me, that was going to be a book that helped me tremendously to “get through” my Daddy’s illness and passing. I took that book with me when I would go with them to doctor’s appointments or while visiting at their house, etc. It is so marked up because the insights I read in that book helped me more than anyone can know. I believe God knew I would need that book to prepare me. He does work in wondrous ways. I like the story of Jesus and the young boy who had five loaves, two fish…and Jesus !! “I am leaving you with a gift- peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid” John 14:27…. Prayers for you and your family.
Michelle,
Great analogy. God is faithful to His children. May He give you the strength and courage to go through this journey of your life. May He bring you out on the other side victorious.
Blessings,
Deborah
http://DeborahHBateman.com
My friend….I’m not sure words would serve any purpose at this time. My heart breaks for you. Just know that lots of love, hugs, and prayers are being sent your way!!
“Red Seas are front-row seats for Divine displays.”
Oh Michele,
All I can do is sigh. My heart sank as I read your words. We share several friends who I love very much. Their words and evident love for you make me know that you are an amazing woman. I know we don’t know one another, but the power of the Holy Spirit has a way of connecting hearts, regardless of time or space or miles.
I hate that you are facing your Red Sea. As someone facing her own (a medical crisis), I want you to know I am praying for you. As I face my battles, I will be thinking of your words, “Red Seas are front-row seats for Divine displays,” and praying them over you, as well.
May God show himself strong on your behalf. Oh dear friend in Christ, may you actually sense HIS presence with you as you walk through your RED SEA on dry ground.
Love to you!
Janell
Michele, I am so sorry to hear you have to go through all of this again, but I am so encouraged by your bravery and faith in the face of this. My wife and I will keep you and your family in our prayers, praying that that miracle in the middle of this turmoil comes soon!
May you be blessed, strengthened, comforted and healed my sister in Christ. Your strength, courage and most of all, honesty and vulnerability give so many others strength to be assured of our ultimate deliverance through our Savior, Christ Jesus. As you continue to battle, know that others, many whose names you do not know, are lifting you and your precious family up in prayers. The Lord your God will indeed NEVER leave nor forsake you, and He will go before you and behind. I cannot conceive of what you are experiencing and feeling, yet my heart aches tremendously for you. Be ye not weary in doing good, for in due time you will reap a bountiful harvest. I am interceding that this harvest is physical, complete in healthy restoration, and spiritually intimate with our Father. May God grant you the peace that passes understanding to guard your heart and mind in Jesus, and may you know the reality of His sufficient grace through each minute of surgery and hour of recovery. Desperately asking that you will see the Sea open up and allow you safe travel to the other side, and that the enemy of cancer will be drowned at the bottom of the Sea as He sees your feet set securely on the ROCK. Blessings dearest Michele.
Here’s what I wrote during one of my Red Sea Moments..ARE YOU STILL ABLE?
I’m not trying to seem ungrateful
But can you answer this for me?
Are you still able
To dry the land to cross the sea?
Are you still the one who closes
The mouths of lions down in the den?
If you are then can I see, Lord?
Let the miracles begin.
There are miracles I’ve read
In your word, I know they’re true
The people seem so happy
When your miracles come through
But then just like me, Lord
They start to yawn, and moan and whine.
Show me what you’re made of,
And can you do it in my time?
Where were you, I wonder,
When my mother died?
Please heal her, I need her.
Did you hear me when I cried?
When I prayed for my friend’s marriage
Were you listening that day?
Though I begged and cried down on my knees,
They divorced anyway.
I just don’t get it
What’s the pattern we should pray?
Not my will but yours, Lord.
Hope things turn out my way?
I just wish I knew the reasons
Behind your methods. Are there rules?
I promise I would follow them
If you’d give me a few clues.
Why do those who have no thought
Of the price you came to pay
Get the same relief and joy
As those who know your way?
Or turn that thought around.
Why do we who know you, Lord
Suffer the same heartbreak
As those who just ignore?
Have we become so smart?
So intellectual today?
Do we make our own miracles
So the ones you send our way
Seem so small in measure
Compared to those that we create?
Have we built our own towers
While you sit around and wait?
Help my unbelief Lord.
Help me trust that you know best
Help me trust that you are sovereign
You don’t have to pass my test.
Lord I know you are able.
You are still the King of Kings
Forgive me in my weakness
But can I ask you one more thing?
Are you still able
to make a world in 6 days?
Are you still willing
to save a soul who’s lost it’s way?
Do you still see me when I suffer loss?
Did you see my life,
when you died upon the cross?
And the Lord says,
“Yes, I AM Able”
I understand your life
In ways that you cannot
I see what lies ahead
The traps where you’ll be caught
You don’t have to wonder
If I’m able anymore
Your life is more than here
Since you have called me Lord.
Yes I am able
To do all that you ask
Never worry that your weakness
Means I can’t do the task
It only means I’m waiting
To show the greater good
Your life is not just here
Let that be understood
Yes, I AM ABLE.
Lisa Simmons 11
So sorry for what you are having to go through. I pray that you and your family will be surrounded with God’s peace at this time. You are an inspiration to many, may this red sea moment increase your strength and ability to serve God through your experiences.
You inspire me so much Michele. I will be praying for you friend. Sometimes we just wonder what God is up to…but I believe with you God will show up! Praying continued peace to you.
Praying for you!!!
Oh my dear friend…even though we don’t know each other…and I’ve only followed you a short while…my heart is aching and breaking for you. You have definitely had a boatload of trials and tribulations this year. I thought it was enough that you had to say good bye to your precious father. I wasn’t aware of the other surgery…and now this. But I love your courage and attitude of faith. I know that God IS with you, and that He will continue to BE with you in the midst of this present crisis. He will NEVER leave you nor forsake you. You are HIS, and He is YOURS. We KNOW that God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above ALL we could ever ask or think…(Ephesians 3:20-21)…so we will continue to look to HIM for the exceedingly abundant miracle. No matter what…He is with you. Praying for you and yours….may the peace of Christ be in you and with you always. Amen.
My heart hurts for you.
I’m asking Father right now to give the the great gift of keeping you on my mind throughout these next tough months so that I can intercede for you. I’m sorry you’re facing this “darn red sea” but I love you to the moon and so appreciate your glorifying our God in the middle of this scary mess.
Please let me know if I can do anything.
I wish I lived closer but it’s probably best for you. I’d try so hard to be there for you that you’d probably be forced to tell me to give you some space.
Praying, asking, beseeching heaven for mercy to fall on this journey.
Michelle,
Your faith is strong but your God is stronger! He has you walking through this Red Sea moment right into his arms! Be Fearless and Faithful and God will carry you. I am available should you need anything. Prayers to you and your family dear one.
Love,
Lisa
“I just know he will.” Amen. I LOVE the peace and certainty He can give us when our situations are filled with so many unknowns. My prayers go out to you and your family, Michele.
speechless. love you my friend.
Michele, I had no idea when I saw you at Platform that you were dealing with this news. I would have hugged you that much harder and prayed for you right there. Thank you for sharing this now. I know you know that you have many praying warriors interceding the throne of the King on your behalf. As you say, God IS going to get you and your family through. He loves you more than you could ask or even imagine. Live in his embrace. –Kathleen
Been there and am there. Typing thru tears for you and I guess also for me. I can’t fully explain it but I know our God is able. You will overcome because you are an overcomer. Praying for you everyday from now on. Show us Thy glory Lord!
God bless you Michele. I’ll be praying for you for total healing.
Michele, you are so right. What our adversary means for our undoing is an opportunity for God to show up and work things out for our good. What is impossible for us, is so possible for our heavenly Father. We willbe praying for you, and your family that loves you, because they too are going through it with you. God loves you so much my dear, that is why satan keeps attacking you. But God wins, and as His children, we too win. You are so loved!
Standing with you in prayer, Michele. Believing for a complete healing, peace that passes all understanding, strength and favor over both you and your loved ones.
Praying for you Michele. After hearing you at the Cowgirl Get Together in Tyler Texas, I know you with the help of God will conquer the cancer.
Praying. Inspired by your faith and your strength. Our God is amazing regardless of our circumstances.
Precious Friend- I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I’m sorry.
And I’m weeping with you RIGHT now. I Love you, Laura P
Michelle,
May you feel all the prayers and The Fathers hand during this storm! God bless you in the trying days ahead!
Praying for you! Love your words. You are a true gift. Hugs!
Michele, you are not only in our hearts and prayers, but you ARE in the palm of His hands. Sabrina and I are in total faith with you, and believe whole-heartedly that God’s purpose in this will be revealed, and you will experience Him in ways you’ve never anticipated as you walk through this … again. We love you, and are always here for you.
Hi Michelle…I am Rosie Williams from Kansas…someone shared your post today and I am just wanting to let you know that even though I don’t know you, I was deeply touched by your story. Thank you for letting the light of Christ live through you. I am praying for you tonight. I just lost my mom a month ago, but don’t have the serious health problems like you do and can’t imagine what you are going through with that. Praying for your family as well…blessings
Love you and praying for all of you sweet friend. Big hugs from CA.
Michelle I will be praying for you. I know He is holding you together. It is what He does. Col 1:17 has been my constant since March. Passing it on to you.
Oh, Michelle, my heart aches as I read this, yet I understand your peace. I’ve been facing my latest Red Sea for about 1 ½ years now. Every time I think I have made it through, something else pops up. But, like you, I have learned that God ALWAYS shows up. I’ve learned more about Psalm 46:10 and being still than I would have ever imagined possible. But at the end of the day, I’ve realized that it is in this being still that I have come to truly know God. I pray that you will once again feel His complete peace and protection over you and your family as you walk through this next leg of your journey.
You already know I’m standing there with you. I will be praying for you, every day. Your miracle will find you. Peace to you, and to your house.
As a show of support for you in this Red Sea season, I purchased a Fearless shirt. I’ll wear it and lift you in prayer. Our family faced our own Red Sea when our twelve year old son, Andrew, was dx with stage 4 brain cancer August ’09. Every day I am thankful that I know I’ll see my strong son again. In the meantime, God is the grace that is my strength.
Melanie Dorsey
Michele,
I will be praying along side of your family and friends, as I am sitting here reading your post the song “Our God is an Awesome God” is playing beside me. I know you know…I know you believe…I know you trust…I know you are fearless, but please know there are people walking beside you, unseen but not unheard .
Since I am close I can offer more tangible help if you need it. I can grocery shop, clean house, laundry, drive kids to events, color and read to them, what ever you need..
Blessings on you and your family, in Jesus name
Sarah
Praying for you Mrs. Michelle…. :’)
I clicked on this link from Chrystal Evans Hurst (I heard her speak earlier this year), and will be adding you to my blog roll. I, too, am in the midst of hard. I have battled ovarian cancer for the last 3.5 years and found out this week that it is back again. It is hard and scary, but I am also experiencing the deep peace that you’ve mentioned. It can only come from Christ and from knowing in my heart that no matter what God is still good, that He is still in control. I am sorry for what you are going to experience in the next 6 months.
Michele,
I have such admiration for you. Your faith inspires me. Thank you for being who you are and for sharing yourself with the rest of us. You are in my prayers.
Kathy
Dear Michele,I am at a loss for words to tell you how bad I feel for you.my prayers will be with you every day. In Christs love,Zondra
So tenderly and beautifully written, Michele. I have no words to add to the sweet comments already written. Your spirit for our Lord comes through with every word you share. Praying that you will hold fast to the comfort, love, and peace of God and may you feel His arms around you and your family.
You are such an inspiration and a blessing. Just two years ago, someone thought I was strong as my husband and I faced 7 surgeries between us; two of them for breast cancer. I told them, and showed them that my strength was in Christ Jesus. Only by His grace. Praying for you!
I’m so sorry for the Red Sea you are currently facing. I will be praying for you and your family.
Thank you for sharing so transparently. I know that it has benefited others more than you can even imagine.
I am sure you have an army of loving support already bringing your name before His mighty throne. But I’ll be one more voice added to the chorus…the Body of Christ at work is a beautiful thing.
In Him,
Cory-Lynn
Praying for you and your family. Thank you for sharing your heart and your faith. I know God is using you mightily to bring others to His kingdom.
I’m so sorry to hear you are going through this, Michele. My heart aches for you. I will pray for you as you get through this Red Sea – as I know you will! When I think of the story of the Red Sea, I remember only the miracle – never the tragedy. I pray that you will see the same thing in this journey of yours.
Hi Michele
I was praying for you and this was the first verse that came to mind so I want to share it with you in hope that it gives you some comfort in this difficult time. Its from the message version of Jude 1-2.
“Relax, everything’s going to be all right; rest, everything’s coming together; open your hearts, love is on the way.”
thank you for being you.
I am a reader of moneysavingom… prayers going g up for you!!
I heard about you from a post of Money Saving Mom. I am praying for you, for your recovery and for your family. I have been through this once and can’t imagine going through it again. But you are correct in saying “my God shows up every single time.” I love this and firmly believe it to be true. I am also praying for your comfort through this journey. Be well.
Michele,
Fearless. That is what you can be with a foundation set in Christ and the truth of God’s word. Our middle son Landon had cancer at only 6 weeks of age. His first year of life was filled with surgeries, chemo, and prayer…lots of prayer. As we sat in the hospital time after time, there were moments of confusion, sadness, anger, but through it all a underlying peace.
Landon is now 5 and 4 years cancer free. You will be too. Live for that which matters. Keep your focus on Him for He cares for you. We in Nebraska will be praying for your healing, quick recovery, peace, faith, and protection for your family.
Go. Be fearless.
Michele am lifting you and your family up in prayer. Thank you so much transparency know that you are loved.
Lourdes
Hi Michele,
Your transparency and authenticity are incredible.
God is using you in amazing ways and your faith is a testament to the glory you shine on our awesome God! We will be holding you and your family up in prayer and we will look forward in great anticipation to see how “God shows up and shows off.”
Jim
Dear Michelle, I am praying for and your family. He will carry you through this. And we your online friends will pray and support you from afar in this. God bless you, beautiful lady. x
Michele, this is my first visit to your website – and I think the first time I have ever posted a comment on a blog!
But I had to tell you that I left the Platform Conference last week awestruck by your energy, your warmth and the example you set of a powerful, authentic feminine leader . You were powerful, inspiring – and the personal story you told in your closing remarks not only showed what you stand for in this world – but also welcomed others into the fold of possibility.
YOU have a place (anywhere you choose to be) and YOU have a voice that the world needs to hear (over and over again!). I have faith that God has a plan for a long and purpose-filled life for you.
Oh Jesus, I thank you for Michele and the light that she is for you. Thank you for the peace you are giving her that surpases all understanding. I pray each day that you would remind her that your power is made perfect in weakness. I thank you for her. I ask you for healing , Oh God.
Michele, I will be praying for you and your family.
Be blessed.
Ann
Your humility and faith literally speak louder than words. You KNOW and that is the most important thing and whether or not you know this; you have changed a life in ways you do not know. I will stand with you in prayer,my sister in Christ. Know that you are being lifted up and cried out for. And yes, that is one of my favorite things. HE WILL SHOW UP. And doesn’t He though? In the most miraculous of ways.
Praying for your healing and for you to walk through this valley with continued peace and rest in your Father’s arms. Strength and courage for your sweet family as well!
Michele,
Because I’ve been there I know exactly what you are heading for. Plan and simple it sucks! But just as you said there will be a miracle waiting in the middle of it. The miracle will be something you never expected. I found my miracle in the middle and call it “A different kind of miracle.” I wanted a miracle of deliverance from my cancer and instead got a miracle of seeing Jesus in ways I would have never seen without enduring my suffering.
If you have any questions as you go through this I will gladly share my experience. My tonsil cancer- surgeries – radiation & chemo were 2 1/2 years ago and I found talking to others who had been there helpful.
I will pray for you!
Sheree DeCouto
Michele,
I found your website “by accident” (wink wink) via Michael Hyatt’s Get Noticed Theme examples. I had heard your name before, but this is the first I’ve read anything of yours.
My eyebrows raised just on the first few sentences! This is EXACTLY what I’ve been dealing with on a much smaller level. I’m just starting out blogging and writing things that people will actually read (meaning it won’t be hidden..eh-hem..stashed in my master bedroom closet…but that’s another story for another time).
The lack of focus on my “thing” when I could touch on so many. I feel like I need to find it. I could speak to women in leadership, women worship leaders, women in ministry… (I at least know that my target audience is women..lol). But I could also speak from experience on brokenness, crappy relationships, managing money, managing finances, managing emotions, and doing it all while feeling completely and utterly alone.
But I’m NOT alone, am I? Your story literally dropped my jaw. Dear woman of faith, please know that God has appointed moments like these to add to your team of warriors on your behalf. I will be praying!
And you have inspired me to step out… fearless… and go for it. Women need whatever it is I have to say. And I’m depending on God’s Word to show me exactly what that is!
Friend… I’ve been largely absent online as of late, so I am so sorry for only now seeing your news. No wonder your beautiful face has come to mind so much in recent weeks. I love you, and am standing with you on the Red Sea shore, eyes scanning the horizon for the Divine.
Michelle,
Don’t know when this Red Sea post was posted. But….I am sitting in the front row with you believing, for you and for me, that the Divine, God’s divine plan, peace, and purpose will once again unfold for both of us.
I am just returning home from Chicago’s Magnificent Mile Lights Festival. I did not know it ended with a fireworks display. 25 minutes of spectacular red, white, green, silver fireworks blasting off literally 50 feet in front of me into the Chicago River. I came home and ‘somehow’ arrived at this link. Now, after reading your post, it makes me think of His power, majesty and glory that IS ALREADY bursting and filling the sky through you and this experience that you have shared with us all.
You are loved. Your family is covered in prayer. There are those (although having never ‘met’ you until ten minutes ago~of who I am now one) who are lowering you down to the feet of Christ to be healed because, as you said, “You’re just tired. You’re just done.”
Be fearless, be loved, be sure in the fact that He is there, and all of us, your stretcher bearers are leading you to Him.
Warmest,
Mary
You such a huge inspiration. May God bless you and your family as you go through this trying journey. My family will be praying for you and yours as you all deal with this. God Bless.
Michele–many many prayers for you and for your family, now and in the future. God bless you all! May you feel His comfort and peace and may He grant you healing according to His will. You are loved!
What a beautiful post. What a helpful post for all of us. May God’s peace surround you and your family today as you are now in surgery.
There will be moments when fear will suddenly overtake you, but “be still and listen”. He is there in the middle.
Michele,
This post, originally published 2 years ago when my granddaughter was born, is as meaningful to me today as it was then (at the time I was newly unemployed by 4 days!). There are some innate uncertainties in my life and at times it seems as if the army is approaching from behind and the expanse of water is in front of me. I firmly believe my miracle awaits in the midst of whatever Red Sea moment I may be experiencing. I have referred this post to many over the past couple of years, including 3 in the past week. I pray your favorite holiday is blessed this week…Bruce