The Truth Is God is Good - Pastor Keith Walker
A conversation between Pastor Keith Walker, guest; and Devaughn Williamson, host.
Life seemed good at 40—Pastor Keith had a thriving career, a loving family, and a stable life. But a persistent cough before Christmas in 2006 set off a chain of events that would test his faith and fortitude in unimaginable ways.
Pastor Keith, our guest, candidly recounts his battle with a rare and life-threatening cancer, starting with a persistent cough that led to a shocking diagnosis. He takes us through the moments of confusion and clarity, fear and faith, as his life was flipped upside down.
After a routine scan revealed a mass in his trachea, medical consultations quickly escalated. Initially reassured by a doctor that it was “never cancer,” Keith’s world shifted when pathology confirmed malignancy. The gravity of the situation was undeniable: a rare condition requiring a surgery only a handful of surgeons in the U.S. could perform.
Amid these challenges, Keith found comfort in God’s provision. From his medical care aligning perfectly to having a world-class surgeon connected to his family, Keith saw God's hand at work. Even in moments of doubt, like questioning why he survived when a close friend with cancer didn’t, Keith found solace in the truth that God remains good and sovereign, regardless of the outcome.
Keith faced a daunting surgery where doctors would carefully remove sections of his windpipe, testing for cancer at every step, while ensuring he could breathe throughout the procedure. Preparing physically and mentally, he followed strict instructions: lose weight, exercise, and brace for the toughest challenge of his life. But it wasn’t just physical preparation—his faith deepened during this time.
One poignant moment was at a wedding he attended shortly after his diagnosis. Watching the bride walk down the aisle with her father, Keith couldn’t help but wonder if he’d live to do the same for his young daughter. That thought propelled him to focus on his faith. Every morning, he’d read his Bible, finding verses that resonated with his battle, writing them in a journal as personal promises from God.
He collected verses, rewrote them with his name, and spoke them back to God. It wasn’t just routine—it became his strength. Despite the confidence he placed in his world-renowned surgeon and the overwhelming support from his family and church, he consistently found that the Word of God was the most powerful medicine.
Another poignant moment came the night before surgery. Holding his wife’s hand, he tried to appear brave but internally wrestled with fears. As he was wheeled away, he prayed that their goodbye kiss wouldn’t be their last. In that vulnerable moment, his faith took center stage: “God, I trust you with my family and my future.” After an eight-hour surgery—far longer than anticipated—he woke up to a tangle of tubes and stitches, but he clung to Psalm 16:8: "I will not be shaken because He is right beside me." That verse became his mantra during recovery.
His journey included grueling radiation treatments, often isolating, but one interaction stood out. He crossed paths with a young man from Saudi Arabia who was battling cancer and visibly struggling. Day after day, Pastor Keith greeted him with a smile. Eventually, the young man’s mother approached, asking why he always seemed happy. This led to a meaningful conversation about his faith and the promises he found in scripture. Though he never saw the young man again, the encounter underscored how even small gestures could have lasting impacts.
There were many challenges—uncertain test results, painful nights, and the realization that not all the cancer could be removed. Yet, there were victories too: ringing the bell after his last radiation session, deepening his bond with his family, and finding a renewed purpose. He credits the experience with making him a better father, husband, and believer
Today, he leads a men’s Bible study, emphasizing the power of scripture to transform lives. His hashtags, #StrongerMen and #ReadTheBible, are a testament to his belief in God’s Word as a foundation for strength and purpose.
In his words: “What some would see as a tragedy, I see as a reminder of what I can endure and how faithful God is.”
Keith described how this season brought clarity and a deeper connection to God, rooted in verses like Matthew 6:33: “Seek first the kingdom of God… and all these things will be given to you.” He admitted that while he never wants to face cancer again, he often misses the profound focus and closeness to God he experienced during that time.
He reflected on the pivotal lesson of surrender: realizing he couldn’t heal himself. He needed to trust others—his medical team, his loved ones—and ultimately, God. This surrender extended even to grappling with unanswered questions, like why he survived while a close friend diagnosed around the same time didn’t. Through it all, Keith held onto the unshakeable truth: God’s goodness doesn’t depend on outcomes.
One of his most cherished practices was journaling. Starting at a café, he filled pages with scripture, promises, and prayers that carried him through treatment. That journal, now worn (and even partially eaten by his dog!), became a symbol of hope. Over the years, Keith has shared copies of it with others facing their own battles, reminding them of the power of God’s promises.
Looking back, he acknowledged how misplaced his priorities were before his diagnosis—focused on work and promotions instead of the things that matter most. His advice? “Focus on what’s most important. Live with intentionality. Don't wait for a crisis to turn to God—build that foundation now.”
Keith’s story isn’t just about surviving cancer; it’s about how faith, community, and perspective can turn the darkest seasons into testimonies of hope. He left listeners with this challenge: Whatever you’re facing, decide which report you’ll believe—the world’s or God’s.
If Keith’s story moved you, consider sharing it with someone who needs encouragement. And if you're able, partner with Faith Ignite to help bring more stories of hope to the world. Together, we can spread messages of God's faithfulness to those who need it most.
Devaughn Williamson President, Faith Ignite Inc
