Praying Through Cancer: Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow

But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her. — 1 Corinthians 11:15 NKJV

When I was seven years old, I got my fantasy doll for Christmas. With a twist of a button, I could make Velvet’s hair shorter or longer. I always wanted to grow long, luscious locks, but my mom insisted a pixie cut was right for me. Though short, my hair was thick, shiny, and beautiful — a treasured family trait.

Then cancer came along.

“It’s not too bad; the worst part is losing your hair,” my oncologist said. My hair? Hair loss meant I was losing the centerpiece of my appearance!

I was encouraged to cut my hair very short to ease the loss. Three days before Christmas, I was taking a shower and noticed a small clump of hair on the drain cover. As I looked down, the word peace popped into my head. The next day, I found a larger clump of hair.

Peace of God! cried the voice in my head.

Each day, I experienced the “peace of God, which surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7 NKJV).

God was in charge of the thing I dreaded most. He knew peace was what I needed to get through this tumultuous loss without Velvet’s button to make my hair grow back.

God, You are the Prince of peace. You quiet the raging seas of my fears with the perfect peace of Your Holy Spirit. I praise You as the One who sits over all circumstances, even what feels like a flood. You are enthroned as King forever. You give strength to Your people and bless Your people with peace. Thank You for Your faithfulness in the storms of life and for the gift of unexplainable peace in the midst of them.

Lord, I lay my appearance before Your throne. I stand amazed that You know how many hairs are on my head and how many I will lose as I battle with cancer. I thank You for teaching me the meaning of true beauty through this. You desire the inner beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in Your sight. Thank You for Your love and patience toward me as You peel away layers of vanity and pride. I praise You for the gift of Your peace that passes all understanding!

~ Laura Geist

Today’s Tip: Tie a bandanna or scarf around your head before putting on a hat. It will make your hair loss less noticeable

Prayer References: Psalm 29:10–11; Matthew 10:30; Philippians 4:7

Excerpted with permission from Praying Through Cancer by Susan Sorensen and Laura Geist, copyright Susan Sorensen and Laura Geist.

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Your Turn

Many people, particularly women, going through cancer and losing their hair have to face the grief of that loss. It’s just one more cruel blow from the wicked C-monster! Let’s pray today for our friends and family members battling cancer and stand with them in intercession! Come share your prayers with us. We want to hear from you. ~ Devotionals Daily