My doctor has just told me I have a bad form of cancer that could kill me if it isn't treated. What do I have to do to get God to heal me? I don't want to go through all that chemotherapy and lose my hair and everything. — Mrs. J.McM.

I can't give you a formula or plan that will guarantee God will heal you, because this isn't what the Bible promises. Don't be misled by those who claim God must always heal you, because death is a reality, and someday we all will die.

What the Bible does promise, however, is that God will be with us no matter what happens, and in the midst of life's storms we can know His peace when we know Christ. Sometimes He may deliver us or heal us—but even if He doesn't, He is still with us and surrounds us with His love. The Bible says, "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you" (Isaiah 43:2).

Don't face the future without Christ, but open your heart to Him and ask Him to come into your life today. You need His presence as you face the uncertainties ahead of you, and you need the hope of eternal life that He alone can give. Jesus said, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid" (John 14:27).

In addition, find out as much as you can about the problem you are facing, not just from your doctor but from others who have been through it. Thousands are alive today because of the advances that have been made in cancer treatment, and we should thank God for making these discoveries possible.