In 2020, I had a dream. In the dream, I was writing a facebook post about politics when God stepped in and got in my face. “But YOU,” He said, pointing his finger straight at my face,”YOU have a  ministry to girls about their SELF-IMAGE.”

At that moment I knew what I had to do. While many of my friends were frantically voicing their opinions about the election on social media, I had to shut up and do what I’m called to do – which is help young women find their worth. There was no “when” to this message. The indication was for now. 

Now, when girls are stuck behind screens, attaching their beliefs to the images they see.

Now, when girls are being told lies about the true beauty of womanhood.

Now, when anxiety, depression, self harm, and low self worth are on the rise.

I have a ministry to girls about their self-image – and along with being a dedicated wife and mom – this is the cause we must direct.

So when our Executive Director, Kristen Jordan, sat me down and told me God put it on her heart to put on an event in her hometown of Wellington, Texas in April 2021 to help girls with their self-image, the only answer was yes. She assembled a small army of prayer warriors; her family mobilized the town; our friends flocked to help us; and the Arise Conference was born.

We started by speaking in the public schools, handing out fidget spinners provided by The Goodness Project, and invited the girls to come to a movie night. That night we played the Documentary based on my life story at the historic Ritz Theatre. Afterward, some girls found Shane and I in the balcony, told us their heartbreaking stories, and the event had begun.

With the foundation established for a day of authenticity, freedom, and the power of God to transform a life, Kristen’s dream of bringing hope and healing to young women’s hearts came true. Girls got honest about their struggles. Women experienced emotional healing. God banded a town together for the next generation, and brave leaders emerged who plan to lead Arise groups for women and girls.

The highlight of the day was when Kristen’s sister Marnie did a prophetic painting of the Bride of Christ. Afterwards, we distributed over 250 rings to symbolize the commitment God makes to His daughters. (The rings were also provided by  The Goodness Project).

The Holy Spirit blew us away when the girls poured from the balconies to the front of the stage like streams of living water, bowing at the altar and repeating the salvation prayer in unison. I looked at Kristen and saw her sweet eyes streaming with tears. “Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” (Luke 1:45)

In a year like this one, remind young people who they are in His eyes. They are seen, known, and loved. In an ever-darkening world, they are the light. God handmade them for a purpose – and it’s our job to draw them out.

To God be the glory — for He is faithful. He is righteous. He is good, forever and ever.

Your Friend,

Jen