The Scriptures are filled with many examples of Godly women and the impact that they have made in their families and communities:
Ruth's simple pledge to never leave Naomi changed the course of biblical history and the meaning of a loving family. "Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God." - Ruth 1:16
Esther acting on the call from God through Mordecai to save her people. Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this?" - Esther 4:14
Mary's delight that she was chosen by God to give birth to the savor of the world. "Oh, how my soul praises the Lord. ..For he took notice of this lowly servant, and from now on all generations will call me blessed. Luke 46-49
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is has been set aside so to the bring awareness and increase knowledge about this humbling and often deadly disease. Increasing awareness is important; because as the National Institutes of Health reports one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. However, with early detection, 98 percent of patients may survive five or more years and in many cases, women are cured.
Three Godly Women
As we close out this wonderful month of awareness it is my honor to share the stories of three Godly Woman whose remarkable faith have made all the difference in their fight with breast cancer
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Janelle Hall - A Godly Woman
Janelle Hall understands first-hand the fear, doubt and spiritual uncertainty that breast cancer can bring. Diagnosed at age 34, confronted with her own mortality Janelle turned to her faith.
National Breast Cancer Foundation
At the time of her diagnosis in 1980 there was little information about breast cancer; and Janelle was forced to make important health decisions with little knowledge about her healthcare options. Determined to help others, Janelle now recovered, became committed to telling others about breast cancer and the importance of early detection by founding the National Breast Cancer Foundation. NBCF's mission is to save lives through early detection and by proving free mammograms for those that are in need. Since 1991 NBCF has provided over one million free mammograms, saving countless lives.
Janelle's The Biblical Verses of inspiration:
These are the verses Janelle relied upon heavily during her difficult days of treatment and recovery:
- My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26
- Shout for joy, you heavens; rejoice, you earth; burst into song, you mountains! For the LORD comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones. Isaiah 49:13
- He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3
Now a 34-year breast cancer survivor, living a happy and fulfilled life, Janelle Hall continues to inspire others by telling of God's love and hope. With her latest project, Janelle penned the forward to the new NIV Pink Bible, offering her insights on the power of the knowledge of scripture.
Shirley Black - A Godly Woman
Shirley Black, a young wife with children was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 1991 at a time when African American women did not openly talk about the disease. Knowing how her story could help others Shirley defied conventional attitudes and talked openly about her battle. In the two decades, since her recovery, Shirley has become a leading figure in her community, helping African American women with early detection and recovery.
"Woman to Woman Cancer Support".
As a founding member of the Woman to Woman Cancer Support Group, Shirley has been a tireless advocate for improved screening and enhanced treatment. However, her biggest contributiion has been the companionship, compassion and Godly witnessing she has given to countless women stricken with Breast Cancer. Shirley's "Ruth" like stance with these women has made a mighty difference.
Shirley's Biblical Verses of inspiration:
Like Janelle Hall, Shirley Black is a woman of faith who relied on biblical inspiration. Here are a few of the verses she has held close during her crisis and over the years following:
- I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
- The LORD is my shepherd.... 23rd Psalm
- All things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:27-29
Victoria Wheatley - A Godly Woman
Victoria Wheatley's journey with breast cancer has just recently started. A public health educator, psychologist and registered nurse by professions, Victoria was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer in September of 2013.
Fighting her battle with Social Media:
Victoria is using social media to enlist God's army of prayer warriors from around the world to help her with her cancer journey. Her Facebook posts have encouraged others to share their stories creating a community of education and support.
Victoria's Biblical Verses of inspiration:
As Victoria continues to fights she stands firmly on these verses for strength and comfort:
- Pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. James 5:16
- The time will come when I will heal Jerusalem's wounds and give it prosperity and true peace. Jeremiah 33:6
- But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed. Isaiah 53:5
The Difference A Godly Woman Can Make
The American Cancer Society projects that in 2013; more than 232,300 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be discovered in the U.S; with nearly 40,000 women dying from compactions of the disease. While there is no cure, three Godly women Janelle Hall, Shirley Black and Victoria Wheatley have made a difference; by following the footsteps of Ruth, Esther and Mary, comforting God's children in their greatest time of need. Following the examples of "Godly Women" with life altering diseases, people everywhere can learn to have faith and find peace in the midst of their journey and encourage others as they have been encouraged.
Marben Bland is a successful entrepreneur who brings his faith to his business life. Read more of his post on faith, business and life at