By Gavin Boyle
Bethany Hamilton reminded her fans that God calls Christians to find their joy in Him, even when times are hard.
“If you live a life of faith…We are called to find joy in ALL circumstances according to the Bible,” Hamilton wrote on Instagram. “‘Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you,’ 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.”
“If I’m being honest…This doesn’t always come easy. Some days, I have to look for it. Other days, it surprises me in the middle of a wipeout or a toddler meltdown,” Hamilton continued. “But every time I decide to choose joy, whether it’s a quiet decision or laughing amongst the chaos – I’m reminded that His presence is steady, and His joy really is my strength.”
Hamilton is no stranger to hardship and trials, as she lost her arm in a shark attack when she was only 13 years old. But rather than allow this accident to destroy her, Hamilton decided to trust in the Lord and continue on with her life.
“Living my life so much in the public’s eye has been extremely challenging and yet very beautiful at the same time!” Hamilton said in 2023. “Receiving letters from people all over the world, saying I inspired them to keep going as they faced their hardship…led me to step outside of my comfort zone to encourage and bless others…I am so glad I made the decision I did – even when it hasn’t been easy.”
The Lord has blessed Hamilton ever since she went public with her story, giving her a platform to continue to inspire others and help them persevere through hardship. While she understands just as much as anyone how hard trusting the Lord can be some days, she has nonetheless remained adamant that He is the only firm foundation.
“I have spent 20 years now living life with one arm,” Hamilton said in 2023. “It is normal for me now to do daily things with my arm. There are days where I see the ease of having both arms for others, but that does not need to hold me back, because I can adapt! I have adapted and changed in so many ways for the better because of my accident years ago. You can adapt too!”
“What has pushed me to be resilient is no doubt my willingness to try,” she continued. “But even more so my faith and life foundation being in God. I hope you can overcome the hard times in your life and find hope when all else fails.”
As she continues to live for the Lord and navigate the trials of this life, it is amazing how Hamilton remains steadfast in her faith and commitment to joy.
Read Next: Bethany Hamilton On Overcoming Fear: ‘God Has Overcome It All’
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