August 17th, 2015: A Few Things I Learned

Devotions

Hey y’all! Sorry for the lack of posts the last few months. As I’ve mentioned in the past, I would bore you with all the excuses I have for not “having enough time”, but instead I’m just going to get to what’s been on my heart!

As some of you know, I graduated high school in May and I’m off to college (in a week to be exact.) As I closed one chapter of my life, I began to think about what this next chapter would hold. I thought back to the summer before my eight-grade year and the kind of dreams I had for myself. The kinds of goals I set. The kinds of expectations I had. Where I wanted to be in 5 years. I wanted to share what I learned over the last 5 years of my life and how those dreams, goals, and expectations shaped me into the woman I have become. While I am far from perfect or having all of the answers, I wanted to simply share what I learned!

Make up your mind, and don’t waiver.

As the great theologian Katy Perry once said, “If you don’t stand for anything, you will fall for everything.” This could NOT be more true. If you don’t have your mind made up before you walk into a situation, you will be pressured into making a decision you will most likely regret. When I was making up my mind throughout high school about who I wanted to be in those next four years, I resolved certain things. Firstly, I didn’t want to get caught up in a high school relationship and leave my girlfriends high and dry. Secondly, I knew I didn’t want to get involved with drugs. Thirdly, I didn’t want to drink a drop of alcohol. While I somewhat failed at the first resolution, I stuck with my convictions about the last two. I had made up my mind. People would tell me, “Just have some fun,” or “Stop being so high strung,” but let me tell you, I didn’t need to do drugs or drink to have fun. I had plenty of fun doing other things!

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” 1 Corinthians 16:13

Make your own road and build your own gates.

Your journey will look completely different than your best friends, or the girl you Instagram stalk on the daily. Don’t go down a rabbit trail trying to be someone you’re not. Trends will come and go. When the trend fades, you’re stuck being someone you swore you’d never be. And if you don’t trust me, trust the Bible.

“Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it.” Matthew 7:13-14

When you follow everyone else you’re going to be deceived and trapped. It’s. Not. Worth. It.

Boys? Stay away.

Okay that’s a little harsh, BUT true. I had a boyfriend the majority of high school, so this was one of those things I learned the hard way. I learned SO much from that relationship and I can honestly say it taught me so many good things. When I met my high school boyfriend, I was not looking for one. Honest to goodness! I had my mind made up that I did not want a high school relationship. I ended up getting into that relationship, which was very healthy for a high school relationship, but I almost lost my best friend. We lost touch, felt disconnected, and it was a really hard time for us. Don’t get me wrong, I know many married couples that met in high school and have been married for 15+ years, but they will tell you that it did not come without struggles and hardships. And I’m sorry, but that probably won’t happen to you. I’m sorry to burst your bubble. As the great theologian Taylor Swift says, “When you’re fifteen and someone tells you they love you, you’re gonna believe them.” #TRUE. Let’s learn from Taylor and agree that she just got her heart broken. It’s not worth it! When you are seeking a relationship, you gotta check your motives. Is it because you want someone to buy you dinner? Take you on dates? Like .02% of high school guys will ever live up to your expectations. They may make you feel head over heels for a few months, but when things break off, you will realize that things weren’t so perfect and now you’ve got some serious emotional scars. Trust me on this one!!

Girlfriends? You NEED them.

I hear people ALL the time saying, “I just don’t like girls. They’re so fake. I like to hang out with guys more.” Y’all I get it. Guys are usually more fun. They laugh at your dumb jokes, they don’t care what you look like, and they’re way more relaxed, but you NEED girlfriends in your life. Girls will be your number one supporters. They’ll call you out when you’re wrong. They will build you up. When you find the right type of girls to be friends with, they are going to push you to be the best version of you. I had a few friends that were fake, mean, and didn’t truly care about me, but then I met true friends. Girls who tell you when your dress is hideous, that your hair looks terrible, or tell you when you’re being mean to your mom, are the girls to keep around. I promise they exist. Don’t let the mean girls in your small town or huge youth group rob you of healthy friendships. When you meet girls who share your values and want you to see the best for you, you’ve hit the jackpot. This is also Biblical. #surprise.

“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17

Oh, and the Bible also tells you that bad friends (friends who encourage you to do wrong and lead you down the wrong path) are bad for your soul.

“Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” 1 Corinthians 15:33

When you get that stomachache because you know you shouldn’t be doing something, call your mom.

I’ve been there a few times. You got into something you didn’t mean to get into and you feel like you can’t turn back. Just turn back! Call your Mom. Call an Uber. Call someone. When you start to get that sick to your stomach feeling… That’s your conscience (aka The Holy Spirit). I can’t tell you how thankful I was when I left a situation unharmed because I called someone. When you’re somewhere you’re not supposed to be, I can promise that your mom or dad will be more than glad to pick you up before you get into any trouble. Trust your gut.

It’s okay to be different

Wanna look like every other girl on the block? Act like every other girl on the block? Talk like every other girl on the block? Okay well you do you Boo Boo, but that ain’t me. #sorrynotsorry. Don’t let ANYONE tell you that your convictions from when you were 13 are outdated and make you a prude! Those are lies from the enemy! As you get older, you’ll get told all kinds of things: “When you were a kid, you were just naïve!” or “As you get older, it’s okay to start doing certain things because you are more mature.” RUN from those people! RUN. Don’t let anyone tell you that God’s truths are wrong, outdated, or lame. While the world may say these things, God has your best interest. ALWAYS. Pushy guys will try to test your limits, mean girls will say hurtful things, and crazy moms will say CRAZY things, but God calls you to be set apart. He says, “You are made new through Me, and you will look different than the rest of the world.” If you don’t believe me, believe the Bible!!

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” 2 Corinthians 5:17

“If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.” John 15:19

In the end, YOU are the one who has to look back and take responsibility for your actions. But if you lose everything trying to become someone you’re not, what’s the point? Again, if you don’t trust me, at least trust the Bible!

“And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?” Mark 8:36-37

So here’s to a fresh start. It’s a new school year. A new day. A new week. What are you going to do with it? Write down your goals. Write down your dreams. More importantly, seek God. Chase Him. He’s the only one worth the chase. Pinkie promise, y’all.

Love,

Hannah

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,” Ephesians 3:20

Tuesday June 30th, 2015: Jesus Loves The Orphans

Devotions

Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed. Psalm 82:3

I had the honor of serving as a counselor at a kids camp last week. This camp is much different than most kids camps; this is a camp for abused and neglected foster kids. Each year my church takes a group of kids on a Royal Family Kids Camp. The week is filled with NON-STOP fun (literally.) We do everything between swimming to a huge birthday celebration, including a party AND presents! I went last year on staff but this year I went as a counselor and it was awesome. While I can’t share my kid’s names, I can share a few things I learned from these sweet girls.

My co-counselor, Emily, and I were blessed with like the two best campers! They were so easy going and wanted to just have fun. One of our campers in particular, who I will call A, forever changed my life.

As soon as A stepped off the bus, I knew this week was going to be special. When we were getting ready for bed on Monday night, I was trying to start conversation and for some reason I asked A if she had ever been to Church. I learned that she had never been to church or even introduced to God! She had no idea that God was more than just a name, but someone who works in her life. This shocked me to my core. In my ignorance I guess I thought that everyone knew about God… Like wake up, Hannah!

So as soon as I learned that I knew I had my work cut out for me. It was time to take care of some kingdom business! So that night, her questions began. She asked me everything between the difference between Jews and Christians to why would God sacrifice His son for her.

Each year we have a talent show and we encourage all the campers to participate. When we told our campers, they decided they wanted to sing a song together. They decided to sing the song “See You Again.” Emily and I were like perfect, that’s easy! Then A said she wanted to do a skit with it… Emily and I were a little concerned about what that would entail… So Tuesday afternoon as we were walking to the pool and A, out of the blue, said “I think that for our skit we can say something like, ‘Just like the song says, friends come and go, but God never leaves us. He’s the father to the fatherless and friend to the friendless. I think we should quote some Bible verses too.” I couldn’t even find words. It had been less than 24 hours, and she got it!

She was so eager to learn more about God. She was so hungry for His Word. Every time we were in our room she was reading my Bible. She even made a journal filled with her favorite Bible Verses. We had countless conversions over the week that filled my heart with so much joy. This sweet 12-year-old girl had been through so much in her life, yet she was able to understand that God was always with her, protecting her.

They killed the talent show! They sang, preached the word, and even had an altar call (okay kidding about the last one!) But our girls spent the week submerged in God’s love for them.

The last night A and I were praying and she prayed these words that will forever mark my heart, “Thank you God for allowing me to come to this camp because now I believe you are real and you love me.” That’s what that week was about. Sharing the love of Jesus with these exploited children.

“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” James 1:27

I am so grateful that God allowed me to play a short part of A’s life. I am so grateful that through, Royal Family Kids Camp I was reminded that these kids exist (because for some reason no one wants to talk about orphans!) but more importantly remember my calling. When I was 12, just like sweet A, my dad passed away. I could’ve been put into foster care if I didn’t have my mom. I could’ve been in the same place those kids were in. I truly believe God used the loss my Dad, to call me to fight for the kids who have lost theirs.

It is SO easy to forget how big this world is. There are people in our towns that have no idea who God is. It’s easy to think that places like Africa are unreached, but are there really unreached people in Dallas, Texas? YES. It only takes one conversation to change someone’s eternity. Thank you Jesus that you gave me 5 days with my two campers to do that! God is so good.

Also, here’s some statistics about Foster Kids to ruin your day. Just heartbreaking!

*Statistics found on the Royal Family Kids website.

In Christ,

Hannah

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,” Ephesians 3:20 NIV

If you have any questions or prayer requests (or both) you can email me at thatotherhannahblog@gmail.com.

Also, don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @thatotherhannah and Snapchat @hannahhmooree 🙂

Thursday June 18th, 2015: Kindness Is Not Love

Devotions

Hey friends! I hope everyone is having a good week. These past few weeks have been awesome. I had the opportunity to serve in Los Angeles with the amazing LA Dream Center. If you haven’t heard of this ministry, you NEED to check it out! I could talk for hours (maybe days) about all the amazing things that they are able to do in LA. I’m just so thankful that I got to spend the week working alongside them with some of my favorite people, Northplace Students. While I could also talk about them for hours (and, yes, days) I won’t bore you, but instead share something I learned during my time in Los Angeles.

I think that our society confuses kindness with love. I believe you can be a kind person, but not love others. You can smile at a stranger in Costco, but not genuinely love others. This idea of kindness vs. love was introduced to me while I was in Skid Row. If you’re not familiar with Skid Row, it’s one of the largest populations of homeless people in the United States. It’s blocks upon blocks of people living in “homes” made of cardboard and plastic tarps. While I’ve read many articles on this infamous place, nothing could’ve prepared me for what I was going to see. The amount of hurting, hopeless people was overwhelming.

“If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.” 1 Corinthians 13:1 NLT

I could speak with perfect grammar (LOL- dat ain’t me) but if I didn’t love, it’s worthless. If I always say the right thing, but don’t love others, it’s worthless. If I live a perfect life with the perfect family and the perfect smile with the perfect car and the perfect eyebrows (I wish) and the perfect shoes, but didn’t love others, it would be worthless. When we love others, like God loves us, our lives finally mean something.

“If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing.” 1 Corinthians 13:3 NLT

So if I gave away all my money, but didn’t genuinely love others, it was all for nothing. Love is so important. We can give money or time but that’s not enough. We have to love. I’m not talking about telling someone you love them, but showing them you love them. Showing someone you love them can we shown in all types of ways. Love can be shown by a giving someone a hug, or praying with them, or being there for them when their parents are getting a divorce. Love is more than just a four letter word. It does!

The next few verses of 1 Corinthians 13 are some of the most well known in the Bible. These verses define God’s love, a love that I hope and pray each of us can show to those around us.

“Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proudor rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged.It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

I would consider myself a kind person. I smile at strangers. I ask people how their day is. I talk to strangers (I can make friends with a wall.) I’m a pretty friendly person. But here’s the thing… Kindness only goes so far. If I was simply a kind person, as soon as I smelt the urine and sight of human feces lining the sidewalks of Skid Row, I would’ve ran back to my car, and pretended like I’d never set foot in the 10 block radius of Skid Row. Kindness draws lines, but love knows no bounds.

So friends let’s show our friends, family, and strangers we meet at Costco this kind of relentless, boundless, patient, hopeful love. This is what our world needs. Not some kindness… because that’s not good enough.

Blessings,

Hannah

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,” Ephesians 3:20 NIV

If you have any questions or prayer requests of both you can email me at thatotherhannahblog@gmail.com.

Also, don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @thatotherhannah and Snapchat @hannahhmooree.

If you want more info on the LA Dream Center check them out here!

Tuesday May 26th, 2015: Intently

Devotions

Happy Tuesday! I hope everyone had a good weekend and enjoyed their memorial day. 🙂 I went to Playa Carrizalillo on Sunday with my sister (insert heart-eyes emoji.) It was so beautiful. The crystal clear water, breeze, perfect sand, and blazing sun were a perfect combo. The only negative part of this little adventure was since I’m terrible at putting on sunscreen and I have THE WORST splotchy sunburn. I look so goofy. 😦 BUT here’s a few pictures from our weekend adventures. 🙂

Fruit smoothies before the Rock Walk

Beautiful views from the Rock Walk

I’m not coming home

Playa Carrizalillo

So I can add sunscreen fail to the long list of things I’ve leaned in Mexico. Since I’ve been in Mexico, and I don’t have a international cell phone plan, I’ve had to learn how to not rely on my phone so much. I only have Internet when I’m on wifi (which isn’t very often). So there is a lot of time during the day that I’m without my phone. Because of this I’ve noticed just how much time I’ve had to have meaningful conversations. I’ve noticed how much I truly listen to what people are saying to me. So it’s got me thinking about how good of a listener I think I am (key word think.)

I would consider myself a good listener; I mean most of us would. But as I began to think about past conversations I’ve had they usually include many, “What,” “Say that again,” “What did you say.”

When you read about Jesus’ life one of the most noticeable things about Him, was his ability to be engaged with people. I mean He knew everything that people were thinking but it never stopped Him from slowing down to listen to their needs.

“Jesus looked at them intently and said, “Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But not with God. Everything is possible with God.” Mark 10: 27 NLT

Focus on “Jesus looked at them intently and said.”

How often do we complain that we don’t have enough time to spend extra time with that girl God has put on your heart to mentor? How often do we say, “I’m so busy,” “I’ve just been so busy,” “No one understands how busy I’ve been.” And y’all, I’m right there with you! I’m in the busiest season of my life. I get it! Heck, I’ve said all those phrases at least three times a day for like 6 months. But it’s not okay.

The next statement I’m about to make may offend some, it offends me, but it’s true. We all have the same 24 hours in a day, but how well do we steward that time? Do we spend countless hours watching YouTube videos, trolling Facebook, liking endless photos on Instagram, or watching mindless TV? I know for a fact that 100% of the time, I do not steward my time well. This causes me to try to do multiple things at once. I rarely turn off my phone and unplug to simply lend an ear to someone.

Intently means: with earnest and eager attention.

Jesus was a very busy guy. His time was short. He knew it, but he always made time for people. He always made time to stop to listen, heal, weep, and have community. Just because we are busy people who are addicted to our cell phones, does not mean we can neglect this vital aspect of the Christian life. We just can’t.

So to close this I want to challenge you to unplug. Please intently listen to people. Jesus never let a “lack of time” get in the way of this. You may miss a few pictures but I promise those deep conversations will have more of an impact on your life than thousands of mindless hours on the Internet.

In Christ,

Hannah

“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us,to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21

Also, here is an interesting BuzzFeed Video about a few people who give up their phone for a week.

Thursday May 21st, 2015: Mexico Adventures & Lessons Part I

Devotions

I’m so excited to be in Mexico! My sister, Rachel, has lived in Puerto Escondido since August and I’m so glad I finally get to meet all the people she has met here, see the beautiful town, and see what God is doing in the ministry she is working with!

We left Dallas Monday morning and when we got to Mexico City we learned our flight had been delayed (even though the board read on time). In case anyone was wondering, the Mexico City Airport isn’t very functional and the communication isn’t the greatest. Then when we finally got to our destination, I learned that they lost my bag… I was super bummed. I’ve never had issues while flying. Ever. I guess my luck just ran out. But don’t worry, the airline people were really nice and knew pretty good English so it all got worked out. I was supposed to get my bag on Tuesday but then it got pushed back to Wednesday (in typical Mexico fashion.)

I am so used to America that this situation made no sense to me. In America, when you lose your bag you file a report and there’s a procedure to be followed. In Mexico when you loose your bag you get the airline attendants number and work it out (literally.)

The common idea that’s been popping up is this: This place is so much different than what I’m used to.

“Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.” James 1: 2-4 NLT

I’m ~~kinda~~ a diva (I’ve just come to accept this) and Mexico does not accept Divas. Okay well maybe they do, just not this diva. I’ve been trying VERY hard to adjust my attitude since I’ve been here. I’m trying to put away all my expectations of how I live back home. I’m trying to remind myself that roaches aren’t that gross (this ones hard). I’m trying to remind myself that I don’t NEED air condition. I’m trying to remind myself that I don’t need to fix my hair and do my makeup every morning. It’s hard, but when you’re forced to just accept all these things, ya kinda have to, or else you won’t have fun and embrace all that God has to offer for you.

I am a very type A person. I love organization, order, and schedule. Dirty, messy, and chaos are not adjectives that describe me. I realize that while those traits can be great, they often hinder me from not only having more fun but more importantly, following God’s will for my life.

As a Christian, God wants us to have fun! His will comes first, but who says following God can’t be fun? So today remember to HAVE FUN! Go with the flow! Following God is the furthest thing from boring.

My challenge for you today is to take what you would normally consider “troubles” and turn them into joy. Turn your test of faith, into a chance to grow. But most importantly just have fun! Live in the moment. Trust God.

Have some fun!

“So I recommend having fun, because there is nothing better for people to do in this world than to eat, drink, and enjoy life. That way they will experience some happiness along with all the hard work God gives them.” Ecclesiastes 8:15 NLT

I’ll be sharing more about my experiences in Mexico so stay tuned!

To see behind the scenes of my Mexico adventures, follow me on Snapchat at hannahhmooree 🙂

Always, Hannah

^“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21 NIV

Wednesday February 4th, 2015: Sometimes Life, and Most Times I, Feel Just Like A Sailboat.

Devotions

Happy Wednesday! I hope everyone is having a good week so far. If you read my blog often you’ll know that I like to write posts inspired by songs and today is one of those posts. I wanted to talk about something that I struggle with constantly. And honestly if you’re a human being, you do to. Sometimes I feel like I’m just walking around aimlessly with no end in sight. No matter how hard I try there seems to be no direction. Ben Rector’s song Sailboat captures this feeling perfectly.

I feel just like a sailboat
I don’t know where I’m headed
But you can’t make the wind blow
From a sailboat

I have seen the sun
Felt the rain on my skin
I’ve been lost and found
But mostly I’ve been waiting

Oh I’m out in the waves
I’m hoping and praying
Please let this wind blow me home
Night after night there’s an empty horizon
And my God do I feel so alone
Sometimes life, most times I, feel just like a sailboat

I’m pretty sure I’m heard
At least I know I’m speaking
But I feel like a fool
Cause I can’t hear you listening

But I’m not giving up
Oh I will move on forward
I’m gonna raise my sail
God knows what I’m headed towards

The only change I see
Lost or found, let’s see
The only difference is believing I’ll make it in

Sometimes I just feel like a sailboat. I don’t know where I’m exactly headed. I try to figure it out in my own human strength but I can’t figure everything out perfectly (hello I’m not perfect so how could I orchestrate something to be perfect… that’s for another post!). I’m out in the waves of life hoping to be saved, feeling alone. It’s not because I’m a depressed person. It’s not always because of any particular reason. It’s sometimes just life.

“But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?” When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped.” Matthew 11:30-32 NLT

Do you act like Peter when you see the waves? Do you start to sink? Well the good news is, Jesus reaches out to grab you. You have to have faith though. If you can’t trust God in the storm you might just sink!

“Look up into the heavens. Who created all the stars? He brings them out like an army, one after another, calling each by its name. Because of his great power and incomparable strength, not a single one is missing. O Jacob, how can you say the Lord does not see your troubles? O Israel, how can you say God ignores your rights? Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding.” Isaiah 40:21-26 NLT

He may seem far off in the distance laughing at you while you suffer, but He is right by your side. He knows your name. He knows your situation. He hasn’t lost you like a mom loses her child in Walmart (y’all know what I’m talking about.) He sees your troubles, hears your cries and it not scared by them. He understands you. He has not forgotten about you.

“For this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I myself will search and find my sheep.I will be like a shepherd looking for his scattered flock. I will find my sheep and rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on that dark and cloudy day.” Ezekiel 34:11-12 NLT

If you feel like me sometimes, aimlessly walking around with no end in sight, don’t worry! There is an end in sight, it’s called Heaven! (can I get an Amen to that!) Don’t feel like a sailboat without hope. You’ve got the greatest hope and His name is Jesus!

Always,

Hannah

Prayer requests can always be sent to thatotherhannahblog@gmail.com

You can download Sailboat here and watch a music video here! 🙂

Monday February 2nd, 2015: I’m Back!

Devotions

Hello! I am so glad to be back after a little hiatus. 🙂 I don’t know about you but my soul needs a break from social media every once in a while. It’s so easy to get caught up in the world of social media… But anyways! It’s about to get real so hold your britches’ (as we like to say in Texas.) 😉

This year has been off to a pretty rocky start. Actually it’s sucked (stay with me, there’s a good ending!) January 2^nd my grandma fell and broke her femur. The hardest bone to break in the body, fyi. So to fix that, they inserted a plate and screws to repair the break. Two weeks later she went in for a check up and they discovered her body literally rejected the plate and 8 screws, which the surgeon had never seen. Then they find out, her leg is infected, with Staph nonetheless… So we had two options. Take out her knee, part of her femur, and part of her tibia, then place this cement ‘spacer’ in until her infection clears up OR amputation. So on January 23^rd she went in for the removal of her knee, part of her femur and tibia. In surgery they found out the infection was worse than first thought. So the next step is clearing up the infection then we can move on to a total joint replacement. But if her infection doesn’t clear up our only option is amputation.

It’s almost laughable. I mean she came in with a broken femur and now we’re talking about possible amputation?? How did it get this far? How did we get here? This wasn’t our plan.

I was listening to the City Church Podcast (one of my favorites) the other day and Pastor Judah was preaching a message called The Problem With Hope. The message is essentially saying without Jesus there is no hope. Without Jesus I have to reason to be positive. Without Jesus life sucks.

The point is that without Jesus as my rock I wouldn’t be able to make it through all this. Without Jesus in the waiting rooms with me I would be a mess. Without Jesus to put my trust in, I’ll be stressed out of mind worrying about what could happen. Unbelievers can try to be all positive or optimistic but let’s be honest; apart from Jesus there is no hope for a better tomorrow. Whenever I meet an unbeliever I wonder how they make it through the day. Seriously. Hebrews 6:16-20 says this,

“People swear by someone greater than themselves, and the oath confirms what is said and puts an end to all argument.Because God wanted to make the unchanging nature of his purpose very clear to the heirs of what was promised, he confirmed it with an oath.God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged.We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.”

Because of God’s nature, He cannot lie. It’s impossible for Him. And because He can’t lie we know that when He sent Jesus, the hope of the world, He wouldn’t leave us without hope! Jesus is the anchor for our soul that is firm and secure.

I share this because even if you don’t believe in Jesus, you may be a “positive person,” but that isn’t enough. You NEED an anchor for your soul. You can be a “good person” but you NEED an anchor for your soul. You NEED a firm and secure HOPE. Being positive is a bi-product of a relationship with Jesus.

As I sat in the waiting room while my grandma was in surgery I started to think about this. I would be a mess without hope in Jesus. He calms my storm (Psalm 107:29.) He brings peace that surpasses ALL understanding (Philippians 4:7.) What are God!

If you don’t have a relationship with Jesus and have any questions email me at thatotherhannahblog@gmail.com. Also if you have any prayer requests email me at thatotherhannahblog@gmail.com. Happy Monday!

Always,

Hannah

More verses about hope:

“For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.” Zephaniah 3:17 NIV

“Many are saying of me, “God will not deliver him.” But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high. I call out to the Lord, and he answers me from his holy mountain. I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.” Psalm 3:2-6 NIV

“Through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die.” Romans 5:2-7 NIV

Tuesday December 30st, 2014: Here’s to 2015

Devotions

I can’t believe 2014 is almost over… Wow! I’m going to share a few of my favorite memories from 2014 and one huge goal for next year…

Feburary 2014… I took a trip to Mexico and it was magical.

March-December 2014… I found the meaning of true friendship.

April 2014… I finally came to the realization that I’m a diva… No denying it. LOL.

May 2014… I was reunited with my sister & she graduated from college.

June 2014… I posted this picture and had no idea what was going to take place the next few months… And oh this still rings true!

June 2014… I fell in LOVE with New York (again.)

July 2014… I began dreaming and took a huge leap. 🙂

August 2014… I started my senior year.

August 2014… I was still dreaming of New York (still haven’t stopped.)

October 2014… I had my senior homecoming. Here in Texas it’s kinda a big deal. 🙂

November 2014… I turned 18 (I still feel 12, y’all.)

August-November 2014… I drove all over North Texas watching my best friends play football (it was so worth it). This is the game before the state game.

November 2014… I watched my best friends win state 86-62.

December 2014… I got to see Fleetwood Mac live. It was a dream.

December 2014… I was reunited with my sister (again) and spent a whole lot of time with my family. 🙂

This year has been full of love, grace, laughs, cries, and everything in between. I’ve never been more convinced of God’s grace and love for me than in 2014. He is TOO good!!

The football coach at my school is one of the wisest man of God I’ve ever met. Any time you ask him how’s he doing he simply says, “Blessed and highly favored.” So here’s to the year of believing that! I’m not one to make new years resolutions but this year I’m making a huge resolution… I’m going to talk to someone about Jesus every single day. I’m not saying just saying, “God is good,” I’m saying asking them what Jesus means to them. I’m excited to see the divine appointments God sets up. I’m nervous but exhilarated to start this journey! So bring on 2015. I can’t wait to see what you hold!

Hannah

Saturday December 27th, 2014: Blessed Assurance

Devotions

Today I’m sharing a post that was inspired by one of my favorite songs, Blessed Assurance. As I started to do some research on this song and just what the Bible says about this topic I found some interesting articles and passages in the Word!

This article I found really made it click,

“Even though the heavenly Father disciplines us for our good, that we might share His holiness, He does it out of love (Heb. 12:6, 10). He wants us, as His children, to be assured of His great love for us. John begins chapter 3 by exclaiming (3:1), “See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we are.” God wants His children to feel His arms of love around them, even when they go through difficult trials.”

Hebrews 12:6, 10 says: 6 “For the Lord disciplines the one he loves and chastises every son he accepts.” 10 For they disciplined us for a little while as seemed good to them, but he does so for our benefit, that we may share his holiness.”

The holidays can be difficult for some people… Maybe it’s feelings of loneliness or regret or shame. A few months ago my boyfriend, of two years, and I broke up. I’m not going to lie and say that I haven’t been feeling a little lonely… Don’t worry though… I’ve had plenty of chocolate to make up for it. 😉 (totally kidding!!) The reason I’m sharing this is because without the blessed assurance I’m promised in John 3, I wouldn’t be able to move on and have joy in my life! After spending two years with someone it’s a huge change to not have them in your every day life.

Without God’s love wrapping me up, I wouldn’t have been able to move on.

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
Oh what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood.

This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long;
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long.

Perfect submission, perfect delight,
Visions of rapture now burst on my sight:
Angels descending bring from above
Echoes of mercy, whispers of love

Perfect submission, all is at rest,
I in my Savior am happy and blest;
Watching and waiting, looking above,
Filled with His goodness, lost in His love.

The reason I love this song is because no matter where you are, it promises you that God is with you! His love is everlasting and endless. Because we are assured that God will NEVER leave us or forsake us, and because of this we should be praising His name! This should be our story AND our song!

I pray that whoever is reading this knows just how much their Heavenly Father loves them! Perfect love that was purchased by the King of ALL Kings is for you and your very imperfect life! So don’t worry that you don’t have it all together… You don’t need to be perfect! Don’t worry if you’re the worst person you know… God still loves you! Come to Him and get filled with His goodness so you can get lost in His love! He loves you so much!

Always, Hannah

(Sidenote: My ex-boyfriend and I had a great relationship and broke up on good terms. We both had some things going on in our life that we needed to work on separately with God and decided to be friends. He is an awesome man of God and I’m so thankful for the two years we had together!)

The article I got the passage above from was awesome and worth a read! https://bible.org/seriespage/lesson-17-blessed-assurance-1-john-319-24

Thursday December 18th, 2014: Love Simply Does

Devotions

Happy Thursday! I’ve been extremely busy (which isn’t an excuse) and I feel so bad that I haven’t been posting as often… I read an article about how we get so focused on posting on social media more than just enjoying the moment. So since then I’ve been trying to simply enjoy the moments. But today I wanted to share something that’s really been heavy on my heart. I shared a book, a few months back, called Love Does by Bob Goff and honestly I can’t stop thinking about that book! I’m telling you it was one of the simplest books I’ve ever read but so inspiring! The whole book is based on this statement,

“In the end, love doesn’t just keep thinking about it or planning for it. Simply put: Love Does!”

Love just does. Love is an action. Love has feet, and arms, and ears, and hands, and hugs, and words. And here’s the crazy thing about it, you’re supposed to share it! You’re supposed to display it to others. You’re supposed to hug someone when they’re down. You’re supposed to lend an ear when someone needs to be listened to. You’re supposed to offer a hand to someone who needs it. You’re supposed to encourage someone when they’re down.

“Jesus replied:” ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. ‘This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Matthew 22:37-39

You see we all have a choice to make each and every day… Are we going to embrace love full speed by spreading it to every person we meet or let other people dictate our love? Here’s what God has to say about this:

“But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.” Luke 6:35

Ouch.

This time of year is so bittersweet. It’s like it either brings out the worst or the best in people. I work part-time at a mortgage company. One of the things I do there is call past clients to check in with them. So I called this man a few weeks back and honestly it took everything in me not to start crying. I mean this man was just plain mean! I was so sweet and just took the insults he threw at me. Then at the end of the conversation he says, “Now I want you to have a very merry Christmas.” Say what? After you were so rude to me you want to wish me a merry Christmas?! I had a choice to make… Was I going to be kind and loving to him or tell him off after he had insulted me for five minutes? I simply said, “No you have a merry Christmas.”

So how are you actions pointing those or Christ, or not pointing them to Christ? Today, make love an action! Love simply DOES. 🙂

In Christ,

Hannah