Here’s the story of Nick, 16, who had struggled with atheism in the past few years.
God draws us with unfailing kindness. Many teens at YFC Lebanon are a testament to this despite the world’s strong pull today. We invite you to witness how relentless grace can transform hearts and spark the flames of faith—even from a young age.
Although I had grown up in a home that serves Jesus, I only truly had a relationship with Christ last year. Before that, I had reached a point where I didn’t like the idea of God. Even more, I wanted to debunk His existence. Because I am obsessed with Physics, I read many books from that community that pushed me away from God. And because I struggle with severe anxiety, going to church turned into something extremely anxiety-inducing. I remember hiding in a corner outside and reading a book on my phone.
Yet, meeting solid friends and mentors at YFC changed things for me. Conversations with a youth leader, and bonding over campfires and candid chats, chipped away at my walls. I also met a very close friend last year. When guys go to each other’s houses—they sit down, and someone throws a PS4 controller. My friend did the same thing but with a Bible. He would say something like, “Open to Romans 8,” and we would discuss it for an hour. And because my dad is a theology professor and a pastor, I started asking him questions, and he would refer me to Bible commentaries.
I love being at YFC because we all share the same goal. So, to me, it’s all about community. If a person falls, a thousand people pick them back up again. The genuine connection with leaders and their sincere commitment resonated with me—I say this with a tear in my eye. For instance, during a recent discipleship retreat, we reflected on “living a life that provokes a question”. And the YFC leaders’ walk definitely provokes that question.
During my first YFC camp, I was dealing with a lot of anxiety when doing sleepovers. I would break down whenever nighttime came. Towards the first night at camp, I couldn’t handle it. So a youth leader came and gave me a hug. And he didn’t leave my side. He cared so much, and it left a massive mark on me.
Now, I want to care for others, too. So I wake up everyday knowing that I am called to make a difference. But I can’t do it alone without the Holy Spirit. At church, I’ve been leading a core group for younger kids. I’ve also been talking to people my age who grew up in a Christian household—because many of them struggle with their faith—just like I once did.