Shanna M.

Today, Shanna shares thoughts with us about how God has been telling her to trust Him, the book the emphasizes that we don’t earn our worth, and the Bible character who reminds her that persistence is key.

Shanna M.

Inspiring biblical passage of the moment: “The pain you have been feeling cannot compare to the joy that’s coming.” Romans 8:18

Spiritual growth focus at the moment: Letting go of my frantic thoughts and trusting God’s plan.

Profession: Currently: Graphic designer in real estate. Dream: Owning my own business, Withinher Designs.

A one sentence bio of yourself:  I am a graphic designer, doodler, crazy cat lady and craft lover.

When did you first encounter God and how did you encounter Him? I grew up going to church, but my first significant encounter with Him was when I was 16. I had been going through a time where I was really struggling and questioning God. I was at a worship service, and I just prayed to God and let go of everything I had been thinking. I asked Him into my heart and asked Him to make Himself known to me. I felt so much lighter walking out of that service. It was a pretty emotional evening.

“I asked Him into my heart and asked Him to make Himself known to me.”

What has helped you grow spiritually in this season? Finding worship music that really resonates with me. Opening my hands when singing and getting lost in the song.

Just read/currently reading (and what has it taught you?): I am currently reading Nothing to Prove by Jennie Allen. It has opened to my eyes to that fact that I am not giving God as much control as I thought I was. That I don’t have to try to earn my worth and there is more to this gift of a life than just getting by.

“I don’t have to try to earn my worth and there is more to this gift of a life than just getting by.”

Top three essentials: Chapstick, sunglasses and my cat.

How did God speak to you recently? I think God has really been trying to get me to let go and trust Him completely. I have experienced moments of calm where I believe God has said “trust me.”

Hobby: Just about anything creative! I love to paint, do calligraphy, read or listen to music.

Top three practical tips for staying spiritually strong: Find what works best for you. Getting up every morning to read scripture may be beneficial for some, but it is not the only way. It may be better at night or during your lunch break. Find ways to seek God multiples times throughout the day. Whether that is reading a devotional (Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence by Sarah Young), listening to worship music, praying in a tough moment or a great moment.  Find the connection that works for you instead of feeling like you have to do something a certain way.

Favorite person in scripture? The Syrophoenician Women (Matthew 15:21) She has a daughter who is demon possession and is asking Jesus to heal her. She doesn’t give up and continues to ask even when the disciples ignore her. She reminds me to be persistent and never stop pursuing God.

“She reminds me to be persistent and never stop pursuing God.”

What do you want people to learn about God when they look at you? That God is enough, so you don’t have to be. Rest in who He made you to be.

Favorite season? Fall is my favorite season. I love the chilly evenings, movies, fires and cozy nights under warm blankets.

Favorite holiday? Thanksgiving. Family, good food and reminders of what really matters.

A dream you have? I hope to own my own business, using the gifts and talents God has blessed me with to share His Word with others.

A special tradition you and your family engage in or keep: Driving around looking at Christmas lights. It’s a simple thing that can brighten your spirit.

Question you will ask when you get to heaven? Is seven days of bleeding really necessary?

Thing you want to raise awareness about: Mental Health. It is a struggle I personally deal with, and I think it is important to know that you are not alone. Our mind is a very powerful thing, and if we are not “feeding” it with good things, it’s extremely hard to get it back on track. I think we need to be more honest about where we are mentally and that it’s ok to not be ok.

What do you usually do before 9 a.m.? Not much. I’m not a morning person…

What is on your nightstand? My phone, the book I am currently reading and water

Define Christianity in a sentence: Taking a step with God, even when you don’t see the rest of the staircase.

For more Shanna:

Instagram: @withinherdesigns

Website: Calligraphy, Design, Invitations

Until next time, keep witnessing!

XX