This is YOUR Generation!

Me with 10 amazing young women at Second Baptist Church Premiere Weekend

Let's face it. If you turn on the news or walk to the local movie theatre, teenagers are not exactly the respectable upstanding citizens of "Leave it to Beaver" days.

Just one example: In April, a 14 year old in Louisiana was arrested for stealing a Hummer and crashing it.

http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/story?section=news/national_world&id=6783976

One of the comments on the article states,

"Kids today have lost their minds."

OK, I think we can't forget the crazy things we did as kids. I myself lied about going to rated R movies and went to Craw fish Festival without permission. Looking back I wish I hadn't. It only caused strife for myself and worry for my parents.

But the news isn't displaying stories of white lies or breaking curfew. We are inundated with stories of teens texting nude photos, having abortions, affairs with teachers, killing each other and more. So many are lost without goals or ambition as well.

This is the sad state we live in, but there are teens that "Rise Above." Teens that know their worth is not in the things of this world, but in the next. I applaud these teens that have to watch day after day their generation killing themselves. These same teens choose to love and pray for their peers that are lost.

Last Sunday, May 3, Second Baptist Church had youth weekend. Teenagers gave sermons, testimonies, greeted, passed the offering, and gave benedictions in one of the largest churches in the nation. They ran the place! And services went off without a hitch.

As I sat there and watched 14 year-olds give their testimonies in a Single Life class and 18 year-olds give sermons in front of hundreds of people, I was amazed. Their poise, writing, and public speaking skills are beyond most adults. But more than that, their spiritual wisdom and walks with God is humbling.

I consider myself increasingly blessed daily to work with these young people. So, while the world sensationalizes the sadness of fallen teens, I wanted to take this moment to applaud those that "Rise Above." Great job, guys! I know the Lord will use them in so many ways, and I can't wait to see it.

Challenges:
Adults: Please pray for these students that their minds stay focused on the Lord and that they don't get discouraged with this world. And get involved! If you feel pulled to work with these great students, get informed and involved...anywhere!

Students: Keep on truckin! Y'all are great. Don't get discouraged and continue to Rise Against the things of this world. Know that you are appreciated and loved! :)