Hannah Ross
Yazoo County High School | Parkview Church of God
Living a Distinctly Christian Life in a World That Is Hostile to My Faith
These days Christians my age are mocked. We are seen as “weird” or “different.” I know that I am living the way that God wants me to. In the Bible, Jesus tells his disciples, ”I am sending you out like sheep among wolves.” Being a teenager, it is very hard to stay on the straight and narrow path. So many things are in my way tempting me to stray away from what I know is right. Despite the things that are thrown in my face, I stand firm. In 1 Corinthians 10:31 scripture says, “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” Any time I am faced with temptation, God always provides me with a way out. I will rely completely on Him and live out my faith no matter what or who is against me.
A Defining Moment in My Faith
Throughout my life I have always gone to church. I grew up knowing the basics: Jesus loved me, He died for me, and when I die I can go live with Him in heaven. This was the extent of my belief. I knew that you had to have faith, but I never understood what it meant to trust Him. I was never taught that God is with me in every situation. My faith was really tested when my mother was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon and liver cancer. That hit me like a ton of bricks. Although this was a very trying time for my whole family, it brought us all closer to God. I now know what personal faith means. My mom was given three months. It has been three years! How awesome God is! No obstacle is too big for Him. My mom still has cancer, but God is faithful. He has a plan for her life and mine as well. Even though this terrible thing happened, it has taught me so much and it has helped shape me into the young woman I am today. I will forever be thankful for that.
Activities and Service to Others
I am a member of the Youth Advisory Council, the treasurer of the National Honor Society, and president of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. My youth group volunteers at the Manna House where we serve hotdogs and witness to the people there. I have also served at the Angel Food Ministries. With my church, I have helped paint the local Boys & Girls Club and also participated in a 5K run/walk for an injured church member and for my mother who has cancer.
