Cheerleaders in Life

Cheerleaders. We all need them. They don't play the game for us but they stand on the sidelines cheering us on. In my battle with cancer I have had many. One of my loudest has been my father. Throughout my life he has always been on the sidelines encouraging me not to quit. He has spoken words of motivation and affirmation when the going has been tough. Many conversations have been sprinkled with these words of wisdom, "Pick up the smooth end and let the rough end drag." Maybe the biblical translation would be about casting our cares upon God, or not being anxious for anything but letting our requests be made known to God and his peace will guard our hearts. My dad also gives great stress advice. He says just be a duck in life! If you ever watch a duck put their head under water you will notice when they come up, the water just rolls off them. The oil in their feathers prevents them from taking on water so they don't drown. The stress of life can certainly try to pull us under and destroy our peace, joy and physical health. One thing I've learned through this journey is how toxic stress can be on any attempts to heal and recover from sickness or disease.
My father's advice, comfort, and encouragement is only a phone call away. Your heavenly father is only a prayer away. My advice is don't start your day or leave home without it. Before you face your day, face God. Let His Word be your cheeleader. There are thousands of words of comfort in the Bible. Let them penetrate your thoughts and emotions. Cast your cares on Him because you are not strong enough to carry them. The journey is going to be a long one and you will need all the help you can get.
I am thankful God has blessed me with an earthly father that represents His heart towards me. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me and a dad who loves me. I encourage you to let God's word cheer you on in life, so you in turn can be a cheerleader for others.