By Kayla DeKraker
Bethany Hamilton encourages believers to try to find joy in all situations, even when it’s hard.
“If you live a life of faith…We are called to find joy in ALL circumstances according to the Bible,” the pro surfer, who lost her arm in a shark attack, wrote on Instagram.
She then quoted 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, which says, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
Hamilton admitted that she’s not perfect at this, and sometimes, it is a fight to find joy.
“If I’m being honest…This doesn’t always come easy,” she said. “Some days, I have to look for it. Other days, it surprises me in the middle of a wipeout or a toddler meltdown.”
She concluded, “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. 💛”
People in the comment section thanked Hamilton for the reminder. “Choosing joy can be so hard sometimes especially during difficult times in our lives!! This is such a good reminder 💛💛” one person said. Another follower added, “one of the most qualified people to talk about joy!! 🙌❤️ thank you!”
Hamilton caught national attention when she lost her arm in 2002 at 13-years-old in a shark attack. Despite such a tragic life change, she uses the platform it gave her to encourage others to choose joy, no matter their circumstances.
In 2007, she created The Beautifully Flawed Foundation, an organization to help others who have lost limbs.
“Our mission is to encourage a broken world and offer hope to overcome through Jesus Christ,” its website says. “We believe there is a longing within every individual to overcome the trials, pains and difficulties of life. We believe that longing is answered and fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ.”
Hamilton also finds joy in motherhood, even when it’s difficult. In another post to Instagram, she said, “Motherhood is a gift that keeps on giving and a daily reminder of God’s goodness. 🤍”
Ultimately, joy in any circumstance can only come from God and the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives. Galatians 5:22-23 reminds us, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
Hamilton’s life is a reminder that no matter how difficult life gets, we can still find joy when we put our hope in Christ.
Read Next: Bethany Hamilton Revisits Shark Attack Site 20 Years Later: ‘Grateful to God’
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