Seeing what is happening on some college campuses, perhaps it has already begun! Their hunger will not be denied! I have chosen the two pictures because they represent those of this present Jesus generation, sometimes called “Gen Z.”

Every year for the past 20 years I've read through the entire Bible. I remember the daunting task of the daily reading schedule and thinking there was no way I could do it. But I did! The first time it was a "resolution" of sorts. Now, I read everyday because I can't imagine a day without hearing from the Lord through His word. 

What if you could graduate high school, and you and your friends could travel the world with purpose? Would you consider it?  Does it sound too far-fetched? Deep down doesn't it sound exciting⏤taking a year "off" and discovering everything God has for you before your next big decision?

Well you can, and for many it's been the best decision they ever made. I've talked with a whole bunch of students wanting to take a Gap Year and interviewed a few who already did it.

Here is what you need to consider before taking the leap: 

— DOWNLOAD THE GAP YEAR PLANNING GUIDE ebook / pdf —

It was July 28, 1982, exactly 35 years ago to date (at the writing of this blog post), when Keith Green and others took off from an airstrip, almost in walking distance from where I am sitting now, and left the earth behind never to return. The airplane accident that took the life of singer-songwriter Keith Green, shook the lives of the evangelical Christian community around the world.

STARTing SPIRITUAL CONVERSATIONS WITH MUSLIMS isn't complicated

During the month of Ramadan you can engage in meaningful conversations about life, faith, and God with Muslims. John Weaver, author of Inside Afghanistan, gave us great insight on some of the best ways to talk with Muslims about spiritual things.

WHAT MY MOM THINKS OF ME BEING A MISSIONARy

Ever wonder what your parents might say if you decide to become a missionary? Aimee interviewed her mom about her  experience, and you might just find some encouragement to overcome your fear of stepping into what God's calling you to do. 

Depression doesn't have to control your life.

Before I knew God, I drowned in dark depression, deceit, and lived in fear. Sin and suicidal thoughts controlled me, and I had no escape. I struggled to find so many things: purpose, love, peace, joy, zeal for life, and much more.

Meeting the Lord of all creation brought me out of the trap I was ensnared in and gave me life abundant. Not life without struggles, but life with hope.

LIFE'S UPS AND DOWNS DON'T DEFINE ME

I find myself praising God when life is going good. I can say in the morning (good times) you, God, are good. In those times, it’s easy to thank God for what you have. You run to God, you tell others about God, and you kind of feel invincible. Life’s going great. Am I right?

MY SEARCH FOR PURPOSE LED ME TO YWAM

Growing up in a Christian home, I always found myself feeling overwhelmed with religion; however, I continued to appease my family and the church, so I'd check things off my “Christian To-Do-List.” From leading youth groups to raising my hands in worship, I deserved a golden star for my Christian participation.

In my last year of high school, the anticipation of leaving my family and adventuring off to college consumed my thoughts, so my parent's mention of a gap year with YWAM after graduation went in one ear and out the other.

My stubborn 18-year-old self wanted to prove not only to them but also to everyone else I was in control of my own happiness and future, and college was the answer to my questions of purpose in life.

When Jesus looked at His followers and told them to "Go into all the world and make disciples," He wasn't joking. Getting the word out about His love and grace would involve men and women traversing the globe, and for centuries that's not changed. The call to "Go" remains the same! Youth With a Mission has been dedicated for nearly six decades to train men and women, young and old, to know God and make Him known in every nation. These are my top five reasons why EVERYONE should do a Discipleship Training School (DTS)!

When I look back at my life, I have no regrets because each of the decisions and experiences I've had led me to where I am today. However, I have gained some insight along the way that will maybe help others who are trying to decide what to do after high school.