When your done standing, Stand some more

My friend told me I could tell his story. I tell it because he is one of my greatest inspirations.  There are many people that I could say have really challenged me to grow or have been an excellent role model, but no one has been more of an example of faith, then my friend Brent. 

Brent was first diagnosed with cancer at 19 years old.  It was throughout his neck and spine.  He went through many treatments and hours of agony and pain.  His dad told me that his smile was always there even when it was hard. He shared with me that journey and showed me the pictures of his torn down body, last year when we met.  He told me of how he is so thankful to God because he knows that God wants to use him and he is ready and willing.  He praised his God for what He did, but more importantly he never stopped believing that promise God gave him for his life. 

In Sept/07 Brent was sent to the hospital after losing his vision. After a test they found a tumor in his brain. He went through a very risky surgery and came out like a pro.  The tumor was indeed cancer and the same form of it that was in his spine.

I remember him saying to me, what I always say to him, “Well Mel this is just a chance for God to really show off again.”  He believed it.  He never stopped believing it. He told everyone that God would give him a miracle, he told the doctors, the staff, the patients.  But the greatest thing about Brents journey was the way he turned his experience outwards and took his story to others in need and encouraged them.  He never got mad, he never asked people “Why did this happen?”  He just trusted God.  His faith is what healed him.

The Cancer is gone.  They said it would not shrink, they said it would not heal, but who are they to say.  Brent refused to give in or listen to what men would say, he stood on his promise, he stood on the word of God.  God gave him his miracle.  People are taking notice and the Glory of God has fallen in that place.  Brent always says, “when you are done standing, stand some more.”

So teams who are out there now, stand.  Stand on that promise and hold on to it for dear life.  Don’t let go.  God sent you.

For I know the plans that I have for you declares the Lord.  Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.  Jer 29:11

Brent did not expect to get cancer again, but he believed in his promise and what God had told him he would be doing in his life and he declared it.  So today I delcare that I know the plans you have for me God, you plan to send me on the World Race, you plan to have me with the best team for me, and you plan to have us be united, passionate and ready.  You will do a radical work in us, and leave us forever changed.  Through your strength, we will see miracles, salvations, healings, and wholeness be restored. I lay down my family and friends and leave them to your capable hands. You will keep them safe and well.  You know my needs. You have stirred the hearts of people and you will provide.  I will not worry, I will not doubt.  You are the God of my circumstance.  You are in control.  I trust you.  Today is the day to stand up, and keep standing.