Be not afraid, only believe
. (Mark 5:36)
February 25, 2009.
My name is Chris Kent. Several months ago, Multiple Myeloma came back to haunt me. I was riding on a tour bus with Lorrie Morgan and the band. It was a long trip home. I had laid down to take a nap. I was about to get up and realized, I couldn’t turn over. I had opened the curtain to my bunk and our background singer just happened to be walking by. I reached out and said, “Hey... help me!” She grabbed my hand and pulled me out of my bunk. This was pain that I had before. Several years earlier. BUT, never in my rib area.
I went to my doctor to let her know what was going on. There was nothing pointing to this pain being cancer. But she was almost positive that it had reared it’s ugly head again. I went and saw a specialist at Vanderbilt Hospital and they found that the disease had shown up. But, it had jumped from being tracked in my blood to being in my urine.
That was just another confirmation of how evil cancer is. We had the disease under control and all was fine. It jumps ship on my blood and tries to sneak in through my urine. And it did this in a very short period of time. I’m convinced its Satan and his cohorts. AND, because it’s him, I know that something HUGE is on the horizon for me.
The enemy is trying to distract me and keep me from whatever it is God has for me. THAT makes me wanna press in more to God and find out what it is that I’m supposed to do.
When I first found out that this thing was back in my life, I knew exactly where to go and who to tell. You need people to be on the same page with you when you’re facing a trial such as this. You want to steer clear of people who are full of doubt and unbelief.
This time the trial was different. I don’t even remember thinking the word cancer. This time it’s been about good versus evil. This has been a spiritual battle much bigger than just me dealing with a disease. There are people that know that I’m a Christian and they’re waiting to see what I do with this. I don’t know if they’re waiting for me to screw up and start cussin’ someone out. I don’t know if they’re waiting for me to give up and let the disease kill me. I do know this - they’re curious to see if this “Christian” walks what he talks. AND to see if it works. Does prayer and following Christ really work?
I’m here to tell you that YES, it does work. In fact, HE works on my behalf! On our behalf. If we just trust and obey His word to us.
The success of this battle has been nothing I’ve done, but at the same time, everything I’ve done. Make sense? Let me try to explain. God is no respecter of persons, He is a respecter of faith.
(I’m not trying at all to belittle the friends and people I’ve met with the disease that are NOT having such an easy time with it. That is not my intention at all. I’m just telling you what I did and what happened in my experience.)
When I was diagnosed 10+ years ago, I knew very little of the Bible. I just knew that Jesus wanted me healed. So I stood on the one small portion of the Word that I knew. And the fact that I got a vision from God, of me speaking to a classroom of people about surviving cancer.
Well, since then I’ve grown in my knowledge of the word of God. I’ve come to find out how to speak. How to act. How to trust God and believe Him for things. I’ve found more scriptural ammunition. There is tremendous power in words and positive confession. I believe in saying what God says about me in His word. My second time around with cancer and I’ve got a few more years of good Bible teaching, knowledge and scripture memorization. Now when the disease or trial comes, I know exactly what to do and where to go. No, it’s not easy all of the time. BUT, I know where my answers are.
I went to the Bible and prayer. Then I went to my Pastor and had him lay hands on me. At that moment, I knew it was a done deal. I was healed and it was over. It’s an amazing journey when you know that you’ve already won!
According to Matt 18, We can bind things on earth, loose things on earth and gather together with two or three and ask, according to His word and it shall be done. My Pastor, my wife , daughter and I did that. Game over Satan!
See, now we’ve prayed. Set it in motion. Even before this, I had a picture of health in my head. Then after that time of prayer, the picture then went to my heart also. Phil 4:6-8, don’t worry, pray with supplication AND thanksgiving, then think on positive things. Matt 11:24 you shall have whatsoever you say. So DON’T talk negative about your situation!
For years I’ve read the Bible every day. Well, most everyday. When the trial came back, I knew where to go, what to say and how to act. I didn’t feel sick so I wasn’t going to act like a sick person. So what if my doctor said my body is filled with cancer - I don’t feel like that. So I’ll continue to do what I normally do! Don’t get me wrong, I wasn’t in denial. In my quiet times with the Lord I would cry. I would cry hard. Mostly out of frustration. Having to go through this again - that was a drag to think about.
I was the first person at Vanderbilt Medical Center to take
a drug called Mozobil. That was a success. Although I felt it was a bit unfair because God was so gracious to me. Since I didn’t have any side effects, I wasn’t an accurate gauge for the doctors to tell other patients about the drug. HA HA!
These are the prayer request e-mails that I sent. It’s not necessarily a guide to being healed of cancer. But, I guess it could be used that way. I saturated myself with the Word and teaching of it. Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.
I pray this collection of e-mails and some of the responses encourage you to dig deeper with God. I pray that whatever challenge you face, you’ll be encouraged through the words in this book.
God bless you!
Chris Kent
October 2, 2008 12:10:20 AM
from: chris kent
Prayer request
This time it's for me.
It's been at least 10-11 years since I've dealt with Multiple Myeloma on this level. It seems as though the enemy is trying to take me down again. As I write, I'm calm. But I feel the fury boiling inside.
You know that feeling you got as a kid, when the older kids took your book bag and wouldn't give it back? Sort of playing "keep away" with it? You just get mad, but you can't really do anything because those kids are bigger than you are. That's kinda what this feels like. Well..... I'm a big boy now! And I have a Father that loves me! He's given me a book of promises that say I'm healed! It says I'm blessed! It says I'm AN OVERCOMER!
One particular verse that I just love.... Luke 10:19 "Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing by any means shall hurt you." (KJV)
The Message Bible says it like this.... "18-20 Jesus said, "I know. I saw Satan fall, a bolt of lightning out of the sky. See what I've given you? Safe passage as you walk on snakes and scorpions, and protection from every assault of the Enemy. No one can put a hand on you."
I don't know about you, but that makes me happy. REAL HAPPY!
Here's what my doctor is saying:
After a full skeletal survey today. (full body x-rays. Sorry for missing lunch today Steve. Next time, sushi is on ME!) there are new holes in the bones on my back and a couple on my skull. DO NOT FREAK OKAY!? People say skull and cancer in the same paragraph and it's so shocking! I'm not taking it lightly, but I need YOU, the praying folk to stand with me on this in FULL agreement. NO WAVERING!
It says in Mark 11:24 "....whatever you ask for in prayer, believe (trust and be confident) that it is granted to you, and you will get it." Jesus said that. So who am I to argue? Trust and be confident with me. I of course want to be fully healed of this, NEVER to deal with it again. I'm believing that. And yup! I'm gonna get it too!!! (by the way, tonight I prayed with my pastor, wife and daughter on this. My son was in children's church, otherwise he would've been in there too.) Where two or three are gathered together, there I am (Jesus) in the midst of them and whatsoever they shall ask in MY name, it shall be done for them of My Father. Basically it's a done deal folks. I am called HEALED!
My doctor wants me to do a bone marrow biopsy on Oct. 20th. THIS is not at all fun, but I can do ALL THINGS through HIM! We'll let you know what we may or may not need. Thanks in advance.
It's also weird that I've been anemic for the past several weeks and had no idea that I was. Tests today showed the level is a lil' better than last week. God is good!
Velcade is apparently the best new drug out there for Multiple Myeloma. My doctor says it's bad on your fingers. Now considering that using my fingers is how I make a living, this is not good. BUT.... she told me the same thing about Thalidomide several years ago when I started taking it. I've been taking Thalidomide now at least 8 years. No numbness at all PRAISE GOD! So, again, if this is the drug I'm supposed to take, I pray in JESUS name for no sickness, no numbness of my feet, hands NOR fingers! AMEN!!!! and AMEN!!!!!
I also pray for Dr. Jagasia at Vanderbilt. He's the Myeloma specialist over there and is the nicest doctor on the planet (according to my oncologist.) When she was talking on the phone to him, she said, "You'll not meet a nicer patient in Chris." She has become our friend over the last 10 years.
My doc thinks that the cancer is brewing in there, but it's NOT staring her in the face. No HUGE things saying, "THIS IS CANCER. RIGHT HERE." So, the bone marrow biopsy will tell more. She's also convinced that I will need another bone marrow transplant. EEeeeeewwwwww.... Actually, my first one was sort of an 18 day vacation. All but the Foley Catheter! YIKES! (You can ask me more about that privately, but I won't feel like talking about it. ;)
Anyway, please pray for these things....
1. Healing.
2. Spots on skull and back to be GONE
3. Anemia to be GONE
4. Bone marrow biopsy to show that I DO NOT have cancer. For that matter, that I don't NEED one at all!
5. If I do have to take this new Velcade, it WILL NOT effect my playing/job
6. For the pain in my back to be GONE
7. For Dr. Lamar my oncologist to have ALL the answers she needs
8. For Dr. Jagasia that he also would have ALL the answers he needs concerning me.
9. AND.... that I wouldn't have to have another bone marrow transplant.
thanks guys!
love youins a WHOLE bunch!
ck
paul
Hi Chris,
I will write more later but remember the following:
1. You were healed by the stripes of Jesus. It is the truth from God and the healing is a gift that you have already received.
2. The name of Jesus is above all names and therefore these things that want to stop the work that you are doing for the Lord will have to be obedient to the name of Jesus and leave you alone. He purchased you with His precious blood.
3. Your victory of these challenges may seem impossible to people but with God all things are possible. And since you believe that He heals and has already healed you, the manifestation of healing is possible to you also.
4. God is able to do far more exceeding above all that you and all of us believe that He has done for you.
5. He always causes us to triumph in Jesus Christ and together we will triumph in this also.
6. Finally my brother, rejoice in the Lord now and always.
Much love to you, Chris!
Paul
stephanie
Chris and Lisa,
Yes, we will agree with you in JESUS NAME that you are healed! I love you both.
Stephanie
Tina
Chris,
Thanks for including me in this prayer assignments. I will also inform our prayer force at Grace Church. I BELIEVE with you and your family!
Tina
Phillip
Great Letter Chris.....
Well explained and well done.
PT
ann & rob
Chris, I'm mad that you have to deal with this yet again. Another attempt to keep your hands busy with it to distract you from your real work. We know what it is, and we know how to fight. I pray an extra dose of ability and patience and peace for you my dear friend. I've gone to battle for you already today, and I will continue to do so. I look forward to the exact same victorious result, too.
I believe His promises and NOTHING ELSE!
Annie x
bekah
You are whole in the name of Jesus. I stand in complete agreement with you, Lisa, Pastor, and the kids. It IS done! Amen!!! :)
steve
Bro,
I knew something was up. I could hear it in your voice.
KNOW that right now believers around the world are interceding for you, Lisa and the kids. Your family and friends are boiling over in prayer right now! Right now the name of Jesus is being called out all over the world on your behalf and THAT is STRONG! Right now some demon is regretting his assignment because he obviously didn't know the warrior he was up against, much less the power of the whole army that HAS YOUR BACK AND YOUR SKULL in JESUS name! That assignment is broken! Amen, amen and AMEN!
I stand in complete agreement with all you have said and will continue to pray without ceasing.
(pray without sushi? There's a joke somewhere in that. I'll find it! ;-)
I expect you to let me know where I can help out with ANYTHING while the mess from the battle victory, YOUR VICTORY, is being cleaned up.
I love you Chris Kent,
Steve
kirk
1. Healing.
In the name of the Healer
2. Spots on skull and back to be GONE
In the name of the Healer
3. Anemia to be GONE
In the name of the Healer
4. Bone marrow biopsy to show that I DO NOT have cancer. For that matter, that I don't NEED one at all!
In the name of the Healer
5. If I do have to take this new Velcade, it WILL NOT effect my playing/job
In the name of the Healer
6. For the pain in my back to be GONE
In the name of the Healer
7. For Dr. Lamar my oncologist to have ALL the answers she needs
In the name of the Healer
8. For Dr. Jagasia that he also would have ALL the answers he needs concerning me.
In the name of the Healer
9. AND.... that I wouldn't have to have another bone marrow transplant.
In the name of Abba, our Daddy.
steve
bro, just forwarding onto you some of the positive results. This is from the music pastor at my church.
Blessings,
-sf
-------------- Forwarded Message: --------------
From: "Mike
Subject: RE: Steve _Chris Kent Prayer request
Date: Thu, 02 Oct. 2008 16:20:16 +0000
Steve,
This is probably the most positive thing I’ve ever read by someone who is facing serious health challenges. He makes it sound like it’s not really a big deal, yet it is, but his attitude toward the circumstances is incredibly encouraging to me.
I am also hearing a tremendous humility here. I’m embarrassed by this. My need for humility is great.
You tell your friend Chris that this note has made an impact on me and not only will I pray for him, but I will pray that the Lord will give me a tenth of his humility.
I’m in awe of his attitude and choice to BELIEVE what God has said. I BELIEVE that because Chris BELIEVES that he truly WILL be healed!!!
Mike
rachel
Hey Chris,
Buffy forwarded your prayer request to me ....I will definitely be in prayer for you!
I do have one question...your Oncologist... would that be Dr. Ruth Lamar? If so that is my aunt. I do not know about all oncologists but if it is her I know your are in good hands. She is my dad's youngest sister and she is very compassionate not just with her family but her patients as well.
You are in good hands Chris. Not just doctors but we know you are in the greatest physician's hands.I am praying for you my friend.
Take Care
Rachel
George
Chris,
Just wanted to let you know that you & your family are in my prayers bro ! But, I'm also praying that they prescribe that you must have a daily diet of at least 10 hot wings per day ! Why not throw in a little pulled pork too? Congress does it !
Your Pal,
G
wallicia
I hope you didn't mind me forwarding this to Greg. We know we can put 10,000 to flight. We are with you 100% hooked up with you in faith. cancer can't survive in your body, it doesn't stand a chance.
paula
HI Chris,
I received an e-mail from your buddy and mine Steve.
Now look, it sounds to me like your faith in our Lord is super duper strong. It sounds to me like you are grounded in the Lord. And it sounds to me like your faith in God's word is making you stand tall. NEVER DOUBT- HE -WILL- BRING- YOU- OUT.
I have printed off your prayer requests and have already begun lifting them up. I will lift you up in my morning prayers every day Chris. I will take you to church with me and solicit prayers from my church. THANK YOU for the scripture in Luke. I like that! I, like you, need every ounce of strength from THE BOOK I can get.
May the peace of our Lord rain on you Chris and give you complete healing. Keep your eyes on VICTORY IN HEALING!!
Your sister in Christ,
Paula
Ken
Brother Chris,
I write to you this morning to remind you to be strong and of good courage for God is with you. I also write to you under the anointing of the Holy Ghost to confirm the word you have received in your heart by the Spirit of God. The Holy Ghost would have me tell you to give yourself each day to a period of Praise & Worship unto God. By doing this you will be strengthened in your spirit and prepare an avenue for the promises of God to flow into your life. The Lord would have me tell you to remember that He inhabits the praises of His people, and that the Angel of the Lord has been sent unto you to deliver that which you have requested of Him. Your praise and worship is important to remove the hindrances that will attempt to keep the angel from delivering God's promises to you in a timely fashion (see Daniel 10:10-13).
I hope that this has ministered to you and brings you comfort that God has heard your cry, and moved on your behalf. I count it a privilege to be used of Him to confirm the word that you heard in your spirit. Let him who has ears to hear, hear what the spirit is saying.
bryan
Hi Chris,
Sorry to take so long to get back to you. With the meetings going on this week everything is a little behind schedule. We are DEFINITELY standing with you and Lisa and the family for your healing. We are believing with you for total and complete healing, nothing missing and nothing broken in your body! I am giving Pastor Cowan a copy of your e-mail to me and I know he and Mom are there as well and we give God the praise now for what is happening inside you even at this moment! We praise God for this by faith in Jesus' name!
God bless you and we will see you on Sunday.
Bryan
Chuck
Hey Chris,
My name Chuck , You don't know me. I am a friend of Scott & Buffy. I live in NY. I received an e-mail from Buffy ............. actually, she forwarded your e-mail regarding the state of your Multiple Myeloma. As I told Buffy, I keep a plastic card given to me by my mother in law of over 21 years in my wallet. That card says one line ............ "All things are possible, If you believe" ............ and I do Believe. I believe God our Father and I believe in the power of prayer. My thoughts and prayers are with and I will keep you in my prayers as will everyone in my church. Tomorrow the church will pray for you and keep you in their prayers every service. Even though we have never met, you ARE my brother. I wish you all the best.
Be well, God IS with you.
Chuck
Deep Thoughts with CK....
October 6, 2008 10:18:19 AM
Wow... where to start? God is so good, I just don't know where to start!
Thursday night, I left on a tour bus with the Lorrie Morgan band to play
a show in Wisconsin. I had sent an e-mail, made a few phone calls to
Lorrie and few folks in the band. Just to let them know what was going
on. There's that moment of "aw man.... I'm gonna cry when I see these
folks." They’re like family to me. Anyway, I didn't. I felt good. As we were riding home on Saturday morning, I was reading my bible. That's when I "lost it".
Sort of mumbling to myself, meditating, pondering.... (countless verses
talk about meditating on the word and almost talking to yourself about
it.)
Lorrie's assistant Debbie asked me, "Chris, what are you reading? Do you have a
set group of things that you read all the time?" I answered yes. I went
on to talk about Psalm 103:20 and how we have angels that wait for us to
speak the word so they can go and DO those commands. I was going to go
on and talk about all the healing scriptures but I couldn't get past the
awesomeness (is that a word?) of my angels.
They excel in strength. They always showed up and said, "Be not afraid!"
So I'm sure that they must be huge musclebound dudes that will THROW
DOWN at the hearing of HIS word! That thought overwhelmed me and I went
into the.... "ugly cry". Lorrie jumped up and hugged me.
And it turned into a love-fest on Chris. "Chris we love you... etc.
etc..." I was blushing through all the tears.
I think that was the second time I actually cried about this whole
situation. I love the folks I travel with. They're good people! It's an
awesome assignment that I'm on.
Sunday morning my Pastor spoke on Satan being a "Stealer". He comes to
steal, kill and destroy.
The ultimate message was, "We MUST be established in the Word". One of
the scripture references that he used, just happens to be one of the
scriptures that I confess every morning when I read.
Psalm 103:2-3 "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his
benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth ALL thy
diseases;"
Yup! That's a good one!
He went on to exhort us in the fact that God doesn't change. He healed
back in the day and He is still healing folks. Hebrews 13:8 "Jesus
Christ the same yesterday, today and forever."
Malachi 3:6 "For I am the Lord, I change not."
He healed me once. He'll do it again. I can stand confident in that
because of what the word says.
Oh I could go on and on... But check this out.
I've really been paying attention to what people say and what the word
says. One thing I confess daily is in Nahum 1:9. "...affliction shall
not rise up the second time." Sometime I'll tell you the story behind
that verse. A confirmation for me while on a recording session with Cece
Winans. WOW!
The last time I had my blood tested, the only thing it showed was being
anemic. My doctor thinks that the Multiple Myeloma that had attached
itself to me all those years ago, is brewing in my body. BUT, get
this... she's not SURE of that. There's no hard evidence of cancer
being in there. K? TO BE CLEAR - the doctor says it's probably back - I
am standing on the Word that it is NOT.
The back pain, the anemia is what Satan does. He's an embezzler. He
presents a thought. What do you do with that thought? Me? I say, "Whoa
dude... hold up! That ain't right!"
Ephesians 6:10-11 says, "Finally my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and
in the power of his might. Put on the FULL armor of God, that you may
be able to stand against the wiles/schemes/devices of the devil."
Cancer is NOT even in the equation at this time. So really? We don't
even need to think that or even go there! I've had it before, that's why
my doctor is on the case to find out for sure. But right now? Its not
even an issue. I know, you think I'm whack for thinking that. But it's
what I believe.
Satan has presented a thought. "Dude.... you're gonna be sick again!
neener neener neener!" Well, that's what YOU think!
With God, the word of God, the support I have in YOU that are praying
for me, and all of us on the same page as far as the word goes and being
positive, it's game over man!
OH! GOD IS GOOD!!!!
I love you guys!
Forgive me if it takes me awhile to write you back. I already get a ton
of e-mails and now with all of this, its pretty crazy. I'll do my best
though.
Many blessings on you!
chris
Oh hey.... October 20th, I'm scheduled to go in and have a bone marrow biopsy. I think I told you this before. Maybe you guys could agree with me on this.
Dr. Lamar (my oncologist) gave me a large bucket for a 24 hour urine sample. (graphic I know, forgive me) The 20th is a ways off. I'm sure she'll want that sample BEFORE the 20th. So, I'm praying that I'll go in, give her the sample, also take another blood sample and THOSE tests will show her something that will confirm that I WON'T need the biopsy. God is faithful! I love Him!
Thanks guys,
ck
kirk
Wow. Man I'm going to worship God right now.
Kirk
mary anne
Wow. Thanks Chris for sharing scripture, your heart and what God is speaking
in to your life. I feel honored to have you share it with me.
I forwarded your e-mail to Craig.
Thanks for keeping in touch with us Chris! I will be praying God's healing
hand on your body and thanking him for your heart and spirit!
~Mary Anne
candace
Chris,
Know that we'll be thinking of you and praying for you! I think of you and Lisa often, I know I don't contact you much, but please know that I read ALL of your prayer requests and pray for those folks when you send them, What an awesome ministry, I'm glad to be on your list.... Just listened to Christ Kent Smooth Worship in the last couple of days, got any plans for another CD?
God Bless, Tell Lisa I said hi okay? I love you both dearly.
Candace
jeremy & lauren
Hey dude,
Im sitting here in Branson thinking about you and I open my e-mail and there you are! I had no clue about your current situation. Chris, I'm in 100 percent agreement with you. Standing on his word and his promise is a powerful thing. I'm praying for you man and I know you have many others right there with you. You're a great guy, father, husband, and friend and I have no doubt that this thing will be niped-in-the-bud!!!! :)
Thanks for the e-mail bro! Love ya man!!!
Jeremy-
marshall
Dude ... no need to write back. I just got off the phone with you but was oblivious to the situation. Your phone is probably going to ring a bunch as a result of the e-mail, so I don't want to add to the traffic.
I am right around the corner, so if you need anything .... ANYTHING ..... lunch partner, prayer partner, lawn boy ...... call me up. Don't be shy, I'm honored to help in any way I can. .... Marshall
steve
Dude!
God uses you to be such an encourager to me! The scriptures you quote are some of the strongest (most strong?) promises that He gives us in his word. I am encouraged in your strength thru Him, I am encouraged by the example of you to step up my walk and relationship with Him. I am encouraged in seeing the proof of His promises revealed in you. I know that you know it's all Him and not you. God is using you to rock my world, which tells me that the same is happening with many other of your friends.
I hope you didn't mind my forward of your original e-mail to not only my "prayin' folk" but also to many of our music community friends that I know would want to lend their prayers as well. Now they want to do fundraisers, bake sales," The Chris Kent 5k Walk for the Cure" marathon and set up a phone bank for a telethon at WDCN. I know you well enough to know that you don't want all that attention for 'lil ole you" but know this: many, many, many folks love you and think the world of you and would do anything they could for you if given the opportunity. I seriously think I could send out a message that Chris Kent has a runny nose and there would be a Kleenex drive. That's what folks think of you. The draw, the attractiveness if you will, is not you. It is the love of Christ THRU you. That is irresistible to people.
Can't do lunch this week but will make it work next week if you are available.
Much Love,
-sf
roz
Just want you to know you are lifted up!! Love you and how you give so many of us hope!!!! in the midst of your being attacked.
Blessings,
Roz
danielle
PREACH, BROTHER!! I am standing with you!!! No need whatsoever to write back. Big love to you and yours!
scott & buffy
That is great!! I forwarded your recent e-mail to a bunch of people who want to know about you. Most of all, people are in awe of your faith. Through all of this, you are still such a tremendous witness to so many people. You are being used for God’s glory. You are inspiring.
I will keep praying for you and I am thanking God for your good health!!!
Love you all,
Buffy
brian
Chris.. I love you brother. I will pray for you with all my strength.
ed
Chris,
So glad to hear from you. Appreciate you letting us know how to specifically pray.
LOVED your words: The back pain, the anemia is what Satan does. He's an embezzler. He presents a thought. What do you do with that thought? Me? I say, "Whoa dude... hold up! That ain't right!"
We know satan is a liar and the father of lies. You have a firm knowledge of that - obvious from your response to his attempts to plant seeds of doubt.
I'll be standing with you, brother. And we're gonna declare that bucket of pee the defining test to prove you are STILL HEALED.
Love you, Chris. I look forward to hearing the good report. Hey, we need to get some face time too. Miss seeing you.
Blessings
ed
dena
Hey Chris:
I am so sorry I haven't been in touch. Please forgive me.
I don't need a bunch of catch up to know you could use prayer warriors to be standing in the gap with you in the undeniable truth of God's word and ongoing healing. So brother, I do! I stand firmly in any place the enemy is trying to wedge through. I stand with your angels, your family, your friends believing in the infallible word of God that "No weapon formed against you will prosper."
I have seen miracles in this last year. I have seen then onslaught of the enemy in ways that seem unreal. I have seen victories in the faithful. I have seen immediate answers to prayers! I've seen the precious blood of Jesus thwart anything the enemy thinks he's got goin' on. Satan ain't givin’ up. He knows how short his time is. But God is eternal. And so are we. We will never see the ending of God's love and covering...never, ever! He will never NOT be on our side, on our behalf, our defender, our keeper. He cannot change His nature. He will not leave us or forsake us. He LOVES (not like we understand love) US!!!!!
I love you brother! I really do! Let me know what's going on as you find the time. I will pray. I really will, I not messin'. COMMISSIONED AND COMMITTED!!! I have a Facebook now, so if you're on that, you can find me there. HUGS!
Dena
chuck
Hey Chris,
I will keep you in my prayers.
Keeping a strong and positive out look
on all this stuff is the best meds for all of us.
Your prayers were felt by me and I will surely
do the same for you.
I had a bone marrow biopsy not a big deal but I'll surely pray
that you don't have to have one.
Give me a call if you need more information on the biopsy.
May Gods blessing be with YOU!!!
Chuck
ann & rob
AMEN AND AMEN! Standing RIGHT beside you, brother, expecting marvelous things!
annie xx
Joshua
I respect your challenge man. You are strong and you are showing us how faith can be strong and overcome lots of hurdles. Keep your strong faith with God and God will take care of you. Anyway, there is always a choice in our life and you are making a great choice to be strong and trusting what God's plan for you. I admire your "Being" and you and your family are in our prayer. I'll see you on this weekend! Joshua
ben
Dude! God is awesome and it is awesome how the scriptures you listed spoke straight to my heart. You are "One Of A Kind" Dr. CK. A beam of light on the rolling Country Kingdom of Morgan. You are in my thoughts and prayers and I claim this with you brotha! Love you man!
Ben
ME
Light Affliction
October 8, 2008 10:26:35 PM
light affliction...
This morning Creflo Dollar spoke about Paul calling his trials a "light affliction"
2 Cor 4:17
He used the analogy of a weight lifter. The first time you go into the gym to do squats with a light weight. You're worn out because you've not done it before. BUT, if you keep working with that weight, you build up a tolerance, endurance and ability to deal with that weight. It becomes easier to lift. Right?
He went on to say, "That thing that came against you the first time, won't even affect you like it did then because you've been working out. Growing in the things of God. Learning what to say and do. So IF that thing happens to show up again in your life, you may not even know it because it can't touch you like it did before!"
Can you picture me running around my bedroom after hearing that!? WOW!
Now before that, I was listening to a radio show on an AM station. They were talking about living by faith. Hebrews 11 has this list of faithful people in it. The radio host said, "If you're mentioned in the Bible, you MUST be this amazing person with no flaws and amazing knowledge etc., etc...." Well, if you study out some of those folks, they were normal like the rest of us. They were just crazy enough to take God at His word. They might have made poor decisions or done stupid things because they THOUGHT God was taking too long in His actions towards them, or in providing answers for them. We do the same thing.
Reminds me of something I heard Pastor Isaac Pitre say. (By the way.... he's going to be at our church this Sunday morning. Dudes..... IT IS GOING TO BE ON! I suggest you either GET THERE, or watch it online. Faith Is The Victory Church 10am. OR live at the same time Victoriousliving.org.) He said, "You're standing on the Word, waiting for your answer from God. The Holy Spirit is working on the issue for you. You just sit. (he was sitting in a chair) You're resting because you/WE are seated with Christ in the heavenly places according to Ephesians. But it's when WE get impatient. When our FLESH says, "Aw man... this is taking too long, let me....." And WE GET UP from our spot of rest in/with Christ. We we take on the job ourselves, the Holy Spirit stops His work. We could've been one day from our breakthrough. One hour from the phone call that would change our lives. One minute from getting that letter in the mail that would give us our answer. Cool, huh?
Back to the radio show.... it excites me to know that God used NORMAL folks. Sometimes we think, "Well, back in Bible times, building arks, having to kill/sacrifice your only son, being thrown into a lions den, fighting giants.... Those are some of those stories you only see on TV, or in a movie or something. How in THESE times can we live by faith like that?
I started to think about the situation I'm in right now. Then I began to think about some of the e-mails I've received from people. Thinking that I'm this great man of faith... I appreciate that. I really do. But it's all about HIM. It's what He said in His Word. I'm just taking the Bible and the promises in the Bible and speaking them and standing on them and believing them and resting in them.
What's that verse? The promises of God are YES AND AMEN! 2 Cor 1:20??
Man.... that's GREAT news! Isn't it? It is to me! I wrote a song awhile back called Light Affliction.
This is probably a good time to let you take a listen. JD Blair helped me out with a nice drum groove. Don't laugh at my keyboard chops. I'm not at all a keyboard player. It's still a work in progress, but I think you get the idea. ;)
Enjoy.
donna
Chris:
This is REALLY good! It's 7:30 AM, and it's been a good tune to pray in the
Spirit with.
Keeping you in my prayers, that's for sure...it's an encouragement to hear
you "stand on the Word" like you do. What a blessing that is!
Tell my friend, Lisa, I love her but I've been in missing her in choir. I
guess she's obligated elsewhere.
D-
bekah
You do have great faith. Thank God He's so faithful, and no respecter of persons, and He'll do it again! Whoo. You got me so excited I might run around my office!
Thanks for being the great man of God you are - always encouraging. It's definitely a needed for us all at some time or another. So, thank you.
Love you, bro
marshall
I am diggin that tune. Appropriate title. Very patient, calm, meditative, trusting vibe. And musically, the keyboard is beautiful. That's music, friend. No learned licks in there, you're just "singing" it. ... M
connye
you keep believing! according to the docs, I should be dead or paralyzed by this affliction. keep Hope Alive!! Our prayers are coming your way! C~
Pastor Cowan
Chris,
Thinking about you and praying and believing with you. God is faithful and his word is sure. Continued to be encouraged. Sue and I love and appreciate you and Lisa and children.
Pastor Cowan
Mark
Chris,
Just wanted to let you know that Linda and I stand firm with you in believing that tomorrow you WILL get good news...go get 'em!
Love ya,
Mark & Linda
ME
The Biopsy....
October 20, 2008 6:31:02 PM
Howdy from exam room 5.
You guys didn't know that 5 is my favorite number did you? God does NOT mess around when it comes to taking care of his kids. Sure, the big stuff that we think about He takes care of, but even down to the little stuff. Putting me in my favorite numbered room. I love you Lord!
Because of this biopsy, I've had to fast all this morning. And yes, my wife Lisa is sitting here next to me with a Better Homes & Garden magazine. "Hmmm... that looks good!" Showing me pictures of this great food. Hold on while I slap her! KIDDING!!!!
Ok... so, just spoke to the nurse about symptoms and procedures and past health deals. Other doctor notes and all that stuff. Soon I'll get to see Dr. Jagasia. They say he's the nicest doctor on the planet AND he's a Myeloma specialist. Multiple Myeloma is the cancer that was messing with me 10-11 years ago.
OH!!! OH!!!!! Lisa got me a surprise that YOU HAVE TO HEAR!!!! Earlier this year, I played on a project with Cece Winans. WOW! It was a powerful session. The Lord was there in full force!!! There's also a dvd. I just have the cd and its great so far. DO check it out.
Cece Winans presents PURE WORSHIP
Dr. Jagasia is one of the nicest doctors around. He gave a great explanation of what needed to happen in my case. He gave great answers to Lisa's equally intriguing questions. I'm excited to work with him. Not that I want too. But if there's someone who you want on your side, it's him.
Onto a new subject. I'm now sitting in the radiology department. I need to get some x-rays done. Can I just tell you... the advancements that have been made in the medical field have been amazing. Talking to Dr. Jagasia was great! Got a lot of questions answered and lots of encouragement in how to knock this (whatever it may be) out of the park!
The bone marrow biopsy. Oh yeah.... they gave me something. They said, "you'll either fall asleep, or it'll make you forget what's about to happen." Let me tell you folks. THAT was some good stuff. Don't feel a thing, don't remember a thing and here I sit in a whole other section of the hospital. WOW! I am ready to eat though. After these x-rays I'm gonna do MY THANG as James Brown would say.
Lisa is a great one to have with you when talking to doctors. She remembers dates and times and what was said etc. etc... So... I will keep you updated as we find out results from all of this later this week.
I love you all!
Pray for me... and pray for me on my session tomorrow. That I'll play better than I feel right now. Just a lil' tipsy right now.
ck
denny
you will be in my prayers tonight Chris.... we love you too. now...eat a HUGE cheeseburger and fries!
stephanie
Hey you,
Glad you're feeling groovy. Hope you getcho munch on soon. You sound a bit...happy. I'm so glad that you noticed that God is in even the little things. He's all about His kids. G says to tell you he's so glad the biopsy wasn't horrific (he hates medical procedures too). He's been talking about you a lot today and you both have been in our prayers. Big hug for both of you.
I wanted to tell you that I was at that CeCe Winans session (hanging out and worshiping behind the scene). You're right, what an anointed album!! Our friends, Jeff and Vangie Gunn flew in from LA to sing on it. Our dear friend, Calvin Nowell, wrote that song Unrestrained. Awesome, isn't it. I'll run out tomorrow and get a few for Christmas presents and one for myself.
Love you,
Stephanie and Gawain
Kirk
Lord Jesus,
You constantly astound us with your intimate care and unconditional love. We trust in your mercy today. Where else can we go? To whom else can we turn for resurrection power?
Kirk
rick
Hi Chris – Diana and I have been praying! You are so loved!!! We are believing for God’s good report at every turn. Thank you for ALL you do for the Kingdom and so many. Love, Rick & Diana
gawain
Hey man I know you're hungry but be careful! I'm pretty sure that isn't sushi on the cart outside Operating Room Three.
Praying for a restful night and a great session tomorrow. Hint: after you tell them what happened today just play whole-tone scales over everything and act like you're diggin' it. Then act really puzzled when they ask what's going on. Extra cred for pics. ;-)
G
marcia
a message below from ma.
love you!
Subj: Re: The Biopsy from mama
Sweetie, Chris is in our prayers as well as his wife. God knows. Be encouraged.
Love you,
Mom
joshua
Keep that great vibe man! You are tuned! Don't worry a thing, you'll be fine with that attitude! But just in case we'll keep praying for you. Joshua
roger
CK,
Still in Agreement with ya Pal. Your Still Healed in Jesus Name.
You will Nail it to the Hull tomorrow. Tell everybody there I said Hey.
R.
lisa
Hi Chris!
I will be praying for you, your family and your med team. I have these GREAT pages of scripture, etc. that I take with me when I have medical tests. I will scan them and send them to you.
I can totally picture Lisa innocently reading her magazine with pictures of tasty looking dinners flashing by and you throwing eye daggers at the page. Lol! So what was your first meal after the fast? I was craving a sub sandwich after my last one. Definitely NOT popsicles! I ate soooo many of those!
Know that we are praying for you here and can't wait to hear how you do at your session tomorrow.
Big hugs, prayers and much love to you, Lisa and the kiddies!
charline
Hello Big Brother,
you just get some rest and let God's kids stand in the gap and do rest! You are not in this "thang" alone. God and His saints are on the throne! I love you Chris. I love you Lisa. Stay strong and encouraged!
Love, Charline
ann & rob
OH Chris this is such positive news! In a much lesser degree, I know what it's like to have them finally give you something that is just pure magic in your body! Suddenly nothing is scary because of the threat of more pain! WHOO HOOO!
I just prayed again against this attack because we KNOW what this is. It's annoying and he's a pest but we're armored up, baby.
I'd love to hear the CeCe thingy - I will look for it!
Waiting for more positive news!
Annie x
scott & buffy
Dear Chris and Lisa,
You are two of the most amazing people I know. Your faith and joy is contagious!! As I am reading this, I can picture the two of you in the exam room laughing! I am certain that most of those rooms do not hear that often! You are an inspiration to so many people. I love you both and I am praying every day for GREAT RESULTS!!! God is good!! I believe that CHRIS WILL BE HEALED THROUGH THE POWER OF GOD!!!!
I will forward this to certain people who are also encouraged by you during this time. They are prayer warriors also and they always ask about you.
We love you all!!!
Buffy
Phillip
Cannot wait for the results..................... The results of our prayers outweigh any other result.
pt
Pastor Cowan
Chris;
Thinking of you and just wanted you to know again today that I stand with you for total and complete victory over this attack that come against you. I know that Lisa is a great blessing to you as she stands beside you with her faith. You are loved and appreciated.
Pastor Cowan
bryan
Hi Chris,
We are standing with you and continuing to lift you in prayer. We thank God for His Word and how the Word works in our lives. We believe the report of the Lord!
Bryan
jd
I'm N, when I kan.
CK, U been N a Bruthaz prayers.
Keep ya chin up.
Az if U ain't heard that B4.
;)
Cheers!
ME
Infusion Room One
October 23, 2008 10:23:46 PM
Howdy,
On one hand, I don't know where to start. On the other, I know EXACTLY where to start! I guess I'll just tell you what happened and what I did.
I made a couple of phone calls today. One was to a lady who is a nutritionist. I got her number from a friend who raved about her. She gave plenty of good ideas on how to combat this thing, this scheme, this device of the enemy.
My second call was to the nurse over here at Vanderbilt. (it's where I'm sitting right now) I left a message and thought she'd probably call me back Friday. About 4:30 the phone rings. I was about to walk out the door to come do an MRI which I have scheduled for tonight.
"Chris? From your marrow biopsy, they found large amounts of Multiple Myeloma. Dr. Jagasia and the nurse will work on a plan of attack and get with you on Monday."
“Bummer!” would be an understatement. I think I get this from Lisa. She can be extremely organized in stressful times. I got off the phone, made sure that the dogs were fed, made sure Jensen had sweats and all his soccer stuff together for practice tonight. Made sure Kamarie had unloaded the dishwasher and then made sure I had all my stuff together before coming to the hospital.
It was in the car that it hit me. (as a lady walks by my room with an IV pole and ball cap on because she has no hair. Hmm....) There's cancer back in my body. A few tears flow. Then I start praying and thanking God for all He's done and will continue to do. See, HE is where my answer is. The Bible, His word is where I find my answers. Then I'm encouraged! Then I think of people that I need to call. Then tears start to flow again.
It was right as I'm taking the Wedgewood exit off of 65 when I quote to myself, Eph 6:10. "Finally my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might. That you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil."
I feel a smirk come across my face. "....stand against the schemes of the devil." Schemes.... devices.... thoughts..... I think I've told you before, but Satan is an embezzler. Plants a thought and TRIES to get you to latch onto that thought. Once you take that thought and start to meditate on it, you'll end up speaking it. Pretty soon, you may start to believe that more than God's word concerning your situation.
This is yet another "thought" that Satan is trying to get me to latch onto. Steal my joy, NO! Get outta here dude!!!!! A dear friend of mine that I went to high school with, Kay. She once said to me, "You're just a man full of happy!" It stuck! I said, "WOW! I gotta use that." Thanks Kay. :)
So right now, as David did, I'm sitting, waiting encouraging myself as I write! Building myself up by praying in the spirit. Mumbling scriptures to myself. I'm sure people think I'm trippin', but hey.... I'm doing BATTLE MAN! Step back! I'm about to THO' DOWN!!!!
WOOHOOOOO!!!!!!!!
I'm putting on the FULL armor! The WHOLE armor! And if you read through Eph 6, you'll notice, there's nothing to cover your back. So I'm headed forward! Full on! In the enemy's face!!!!
Please join me! If you think about it, pray for me. Pray for Lisa and the kids. This right here.... it's gonna turn out good! It may be hard at times, but MY God is faithful! I'm taking Abraham's lead and NOT wavering in my faith. Not staggering in it, but being STRONG in it!
As my Pastor spoke last night, I believe what the word says and my belief is moving me toward faith. Sure you can believe, but not act on it. And that my friends will get you no where when you think about it. It's when you act on that belief. THAT'S when your faith gets stronger and things begin to change and God notices you. He's a respecter of FAITH, not of people.
I love you guys!
Thanks for thinking of me. I'll try not to flood your inboxes with tons of e-mails. Just wanna let you know what's up with me. Oh hey, does anyone have a juicer that they're willing to part with for a few weeks or so? ;)
Forgive me if it takes awhile to write back. OR if I don't pick up the phone right away. Life still happens. Kids still have to get to school on time, lunches need to be made, soccer practice needs to be attended.... Oh, and then I play music for a living. So there's that too. :)
chris
chris & lea
Chris,
You are amazing! You bless us so much every time you write. You are on target for the things of God and he will show up BIG for you. God is good and he is on your side.
We have a juicer you can use. It's an older model, a JuiceManPlus juicer. It takes out the fiber and leaves just the juice. But you can use it to see if you like it. Some juicers leave in the fiber and you may like or need that. Ask you Dr. what she thinks.
Love you guys
justin
i'm praying for you man... and thanking you for helping me build my faith in these trying times. God bless, j
kirk
Chris,
Ruby and I are praying (and following your faith lead). You my friend are the "intercessionfaithfullofhappyPASTOR" for the lot of us! So we'll await further instructions as you git'm.
love,
Kirk
tony
Chris I can't even write I'm so upset sounds like more then you! You are the most special man I know. I will be praying and fasting for you and will be here for anything I mean anything you and your family needs. Need to get the kids away, Leave them here. Daniel and emily would love it! Anything.