Leann Boudreau

TRUSTING GOD THROUGH LIFE’S VALLEYS

One year ago this past March, I was diagnosed with bone cancer on my spine and ribs along with five tumors in my lungs. This was the third time I had received a cancer diagnosis since 1993. Each time, I was told I would die – and each time God had a different plan in mind!

“…the Lord has made everything for His purposes.” Romans 11:36

I know this may sound odd, but I wouldn’t change this part of my life for any reason. It’s not that I’m particularly fond of having cancer – I don’t know anyone who would. But, in my case, the experience changed who I am – for the better! Through this ordeal, my husband Don and I have learned to truly put our trust in the Lord. We have learned what it really means to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ!

“You will give perfect peace to those who keep their trust in you.”
Isaiah 26:3

Trusting that my future was securely in God’s loving hands, caused my fear of dying to fade away. I realized, for the first time, that I was in a win / win situation. If I became a cancer survivor – that would be great! But if I ended up losing this earthly battle – I would be going straight to heaven to live forever with my Lord and Savior!

“This world is fading away. But if you put your trust in the God you will live forever.”
1 John 2:17

Putting your trust in the Lord doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll be healed and everything will be fine. It means you can let go of fear – knowing that God will always be with you, that you’re never alone, and that His plans for your life are what’s best.

“For God has said, ‘I will never leave you, I will never abandon you.” Hebrews 13:15

There is nothing more comforting than realizing we will spend eternity in the presence of our King. This is the ultimate destiny for every Christian. Knowing this gives me an eternal perspective – which, in turn, gives me daily strength. The verses interspersed in this short story are some that have encouraged me and Don as we have walked with the Lord through the valley of cancer. You may not be facing the same valley, but all of us experience valleys of suffering at some point in life. I hope my story encourages you to turn to Jesus, to make it your intention to trust Him through whatever it is you’re facing, and to let His Word carry you through as He works His will in your life!

God bless you!
Leann & Don Boudreau

If you would like to contact Leann, she can be reached at magicbsmom@earthlink.net