Lisa and Doug Stringer were ministering in Massachusetts in March 2015 when a lump in Doug's throat started to bother him. "I don't feel well," he told his wife. "The lump I felt in my throat a few days ago feels larger." When they were able to see a doctor, they were horrified to learn that Doug had Stage 4 large B-cell lymphoma that was 80 percent aggressive.
Doug spent the rest of the day sitting in his car, alone in prayer. Finally, he called Lisa to tell her that he was on his way home and he wanted a family meeting and communion. Emotionally exhausted and noses still running from crying, Lisa, her mom, and Ashley gathered in the family room as Doug told them about his time with God.
"God did not do this to me--and if He did not do this to me, then it doesn't belong to me!" he told them emphatically. It was just what they need to hear.
God Did Not Do This to Me is Lisa's story of the family's trials and triumphs through a cancer diagnosis. Putting on the armor of God, Doug was determined to turn his battle with cancer into an intercession for the country, even joking that the chemotherapy treatments made him resemble a bald eagle.
By the end of the year, Doug's cancer was in remission.
"We know that the Great Physician heard the numerous prayers of our friends and spiritual family from all over the world, and blessed us all with a testimony of His healing power," Lisa says. "We are forever changed through this experience. He has expanded my heart of compassion, taught me to pour out more grace, to be an even bigger giver, and to appreciate the little things all the more."
Industry Reviews
How could a book about cancer be inspirational and faith-building? It's because Lisa Stringer's book focuses not on the power of cancer, but on the goodness of God and His faithful presence while we seem to be walking through "the valley of the shadow of death" (Psalm 23:4). Many people who receive a cancer diagnosis are overwhelmed by fear. Some immediately put their trust in medical science, as if God was no longer the Great Physician. Others reject medical options altogether, hoping for a divine miracle, but refusing to avail themselves of the help of doctors. Lisa Stringer's book is an honest account of the how the Stringer family sought the Lord's guidance each step of the way, ultimately experiencing profound victory amid gut-wrenching challenges. Whether you or a loved one is facing cancer or some other life-altering trial, you will be transformed by the hope and courage you find in these pages.--Jim Buchan "Author and speaker, Crosslink Ministries"
I just finished reading God Did Not Do This to Me and felt it was well written. I enjoyed reading it and could see (and feel) the hand of God through your family battle and journey with cancer then remission. A good writer makes you feel as if you were there during the story line, and Lisa Stringer came through in that area. Your testimony will continue to be a great source of encouragement to many as you share your story of faith, commitment, and God's grace with those in need.--Alan Bullock "Vice president, Daystar Television Network"
The chronicle of this journey moved me deeply because I have witnessed this priceless family minister through this personal trial with a tangible, authentic consistent witness in every place to every face, every time. The love and reality of God was shared with everyone in their path: medical personnel, patients, family, friends, associates, and strangers. Doug and Lisa's deep desire for all to know the Lord personally and be saved shines through this testimony. Furthermore, they continued to contend for their nation and world even though in this health battle. Their eyes were stayed on the Lord to overcome. "So help me God" is a theme throughout this story as this family leaned upon the truth of Scripture--the living Word of God Himself--and kept their radar focused on the Lord Jesus Christ. This is a call to believers everywhere to fast and intercede for our fellow brothers and sisters in need. Whether a health crisis or another battle, this journey will lead you to seek the Lord for your own victory!I thank God for his kingdom increase through the healing of Doug and grace to his family--so that privilege of the irrevocable call of God flies on like the eagle.--Lisa Crump "National Day of Prayer Task Force"
The world so much starves for the lack of the real, day-to-day stories of those who have encountered troubles, even life-threatening assaults, and have experienced the transformative power and relief of the gospel. Lisa Stringer shares just such a personal and family story in her new book, God Did Not Do This to Me. Her words of her personal and her family's struggles as her husband was diagnosed with stage-four cancer are reminiscent of the Apostle Paul's incredible and palpable words in his letter to the Philippians. Therein, he describes his many struggles and agonies as a "fellowship of [Christ's] sufferings," which led to such a valuable result in his life that far surpassed any and everything else that he as a human being could ever experience--that being "knowing Christ Jesus [his] Lord!" Lisa Stringer's story is just such a similar, transparent testimony. I heartily recommend everyone read and listen to her victorious battle!--Randall J. Pannell, PhD, MDiv "Professor, North Greenville University"
