Quote

"Being present means living your actual life, accepting it for what it is, and making the absolute most of it."

- Bethany Hamilton

Real Life

In 2003, at the age of 13, aspiring professional surfer Bethany Hamilton lost her arm in a shark attack.

Even at a young age, Bethany knew she was born to surf. She first stepped onto a surfboard at the age of three, started winning international competitions at eight, and by 10 years old, she had her first sponsorship. One day, while surfing with her friends, Bethany lay sideways on her surfboard, her left arm resting in the water as she waited for a wave. Suddenly, a powerful force yanked her back and forth - a 4.3-meter tiger shark had attacked, severing her left arm just below the shoulder. She was rushed to hospital, undergoing multiple surgeries. Hamilton was back in the water just a month later, and within a year, she was competing again, adapting her technique to account for her missing limb.

Just a few weeks before the attack, Bethany prayed, “God, I want my life to be more than just surfing. I want to honour you with my life. I don’t know what that looks like, but help me figure it out.” God took Bethany on the most challenging journey of her life, and transformed this traumatic experience into an opportunity for her to share her journey, becoming a powerful testament that we can overcome our struggles.

John 16:33 reminds us that the world isn’t perfect, and we all face difficult times, which is why we need to trust God and bring our struggles to Him. It doesn’t promise we’ll avoid hardship, but assures us that through it all, we can rely on God. As we navigate life, we can be prepared for the tough, painful, and confusing moments, knowing that God is greater than any of it. This hope helps us to push through tough times, love those around us, and live the life God has in store for us. Hamilton does not let the incident define her, and she often speaks about how God created her to be more than a surfer and shark attack survivor, He created her to be loved by Him and to simply enjoy what that life brings.

Bible Verse

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

John 16:33

Prayer

Even though there are going to be tough times, Lord, I know you are here for me. Help me to turn to you first in my times of need, and to praise you for carrying me through.

Author: Michaela Jameson   |   Content Editor: Phil Pawley