“Be different, stand out, be a leader, and then YOU set the bar for what is normal.”  -Jake Gibbs

My son, Jake, and I had a great opportunity to be with the community of Mangum, Oklahoma a few weeks ago.  There is a wonderful group of people there who have developed programs for Mangum’s youth.  I was honored to be a part of the Girls’ Gathering last spring, and this time I brought Jake along to speak at the Boys’ Bash!

Jake spoke truth over the middle school and high school boys and I just want to share a few points…

Jake spoke about choices and opportunities.  He challenged them to remember that the choices they make today will affect the rest of their lives. “Every day, you have an opportunity to shape your future.”

He reminded them that greatness is inside of them.  Greatness means not doing what society is doing.  “When was the last time someone was praised for doing the exact same thing everyone else is doing?” God has called us to be different.

To be different sometimes means you will get left out.  You have to decide to be different and make the sacrifices to do the things that other people think are crazy–like being a teenager with no social media accounts.

Then, Jake told them these truths about themselves:

• You have greatness in you.
• You have been chosen to be different and to make a difference.
• Do not settle for meaningless encounters—make a commitment to yourself to be worth more.
• You can be strong.
• You can fight to stay pure and stay clean.
• You are strong enough to stand alone.
• You have the ability to allow today’s struggle to develop strength in you tomorrow.
• I believe you can do all of these things! 

I’m so thankful for opportunities like this, and for communities like Mangum who are investing in their young people.  What a blessing to spend time with like-minded people.  People who do not fear what is out there in society, but want to stand against it with all their might.  They are cultivating a culture of families who are raising the bar and expecting great things from their youth!

This is something you can do in your community, as well.  Remember YOU decide what is normal in your community.  Contact us if you would like more information.

My love,