by Chandra Peele

Have you noticed how often the Word of God describes activity from generation to generation? I don’t know the exact number of times—but it’s a lot! It’s amazing to think the name of Jesus Christ and His message of salvation have been passed on for generations and continue to be spread today.

We, if we so choose, have the opportunity and privilege to be a part of that kingdom growth. And let me assure you, the youth at Blume 2011, a missions gathering for teen girls, are eager to keep the good news going!

At the Blume 2011 event in Orlando (July 13–16), girls were encouraged to take what they had been taught and to use the gifts they have been given to make sure the message of Jesus Christ continues to blossom in their generation.

What a privilege it was for me, as keynote speaker, to encourage and motivate teen girls in a packed-out ballroom at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. Believe me . . . these girls, tomorrow’s leaders, are ready to fan the flame of the gift God has given them (2 Timothy 1:6–7). It was wonderful to be a part of such a movement for the kingdom. Using 2 Timothy, the theme text for Blume and my book Power[full], a few questions I asked were:

  • Who are those who have taught you about Jesus?
  • Do you listen and value the lessons being taught?
  • Who is watching you? Do you reflect the character of Christ?
  • Are you using your gifts to serve others?
  • What are you doing to make a difference?
  • What kind of legacy will you leave?
  • Is Jesus evident in your life?

People will forever be searching for answers to spiritual questions. When they ask you, what is going to be your response? Whether you’re 15 or 51, let me encourage you to tap into the power source—the Word of God—so you’ll be ready. Also, draw closer to God through prayer, which is communicating with your heavenly Father. The more intimate relationship with Jesus, the more you will look, speak, and love like Him.

Why? Because if you are a believer, a Christ follower, a Christian (all the same), the power of God is in you! Yes—it’s true! The same power that healed the sick, turned the water to wine, parted the sea, sent manna from heaven, flooded the earth, and raised Christ from the grave . . . that very same power lives in you!

If you have confessed with your mouth and believed in your heart that Jesus is Lord, the very Son of God (Romans 10:8–9), then you have been forgiven from every wrong and made a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). By grace (the free gift of God) you have been saved through faith (Ephesians 2:8–9). So remember, God did not give us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. So you must never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord (2 Timothy 1:7).

When Christians grasp that the power of God lives in them, only then will they have the faith and confidence to go tell! Only then will they take the first step that leads to dreams coming true and desires being realized.

Do you have the power? The power of God in you can change the world . . . if you believe! 

Chandra Peele, author of Power[full], is a highly recommended speaker and author endorsed by pastor and author Max Lucado; nationally known youth speaker David Nasser; Christian contemporary artist Natalie Grant; author and speaker Jennifer Kennedy Dean; and many more.