How Faith Helped Me Survive Stage Four Cancer
With Diego Mesa, Senior Pastor of Abundant Living Family Church
Overcoming Insecurities
We live in a world focused on outward appearances, possessions, and wealth, but we can choose not to. Instead of being consumed by comparison and competition, we can focus on what God says about us.
This week on Relentless Hope, Pastor Diego Mesa teaches us how to overcome insecurities and low self-esteem by yielding to God and trusting He is in control.
Words of Hope:
“The great thing to remember is that though our feelings come and go, God’s love for us does not.”
― C.S. Lewis
LIFE
In part 1 of Relentless Hope, Pastor Diego Mesa shares how he reclaimed his self-esteem and overcame insecurities. After being diagnosed with stage four kidney cancer, he found peace and could fight against the illness with God. To heal emotionally and spiritually, Pastor Diego had to separate himself from the childhood beliefs he had internalized, like rejection or competitive behavior, and learn not to take things personally. He encourages us to look beyond physical appearance and prioritize character and integrity instead.
LEADERSHIP
In part 2 of our 3-part series, Diego explains that leadership is about focusing on the needs of others and encouraging them to embrace their unique selves and know God’s unconditional love. He emphasizes the need for role models to set a good example and that successful leadership comes from having accountability.
Leadership also involves bringing back standards, integrity, and morality into our homes and societies to create a ripple effect that impacts future generations.
LEGACY
In part 3 of Relentless Hope, Pastor Diego shares his belief that leaving a legacy isn’t what we take from this life but what we will leave behind. He wants to see people surpass what he achieved after sharing his knowledge, wisdom, relationships, and resources needed to improve their lives. He teaches us the importance of prayer and embracing God’s commands, such as forgiveness for ourselves and others.
Scripture to reflect on:
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”
– Isaiah 26:3
Closing prayer for Diego’s story:
Dear Lord, sometimes I feel so insecure that I’m not good enough. I know this is wrong thinking because You created me in Your image, and You don’t make mistakes. I am a child of God! You made me exactly as You intended. Thank you, Lord. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Thank you for reading and being part of the Relentless Hope community - please let us know how these episodes impact your life!