“Renewing” is TTT Christian Youth Ministries’ 2026 theme, based on Romans 12:2 NKJV: “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
The preceding verse provides the pacesetting scenario: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” Romans 12:1 NKJV
Saturday, February 7, God willing, TTT will celebrate 60 years (and counting) as the vision continues: Every youth, before turning 20, to hear the Gospel with an invitation to Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.
People who have been a part of TTT during our first 60 years are sharing their stories. What is your story?
You are invited to continue renewing your commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ, and participate in “Telling The TRUTH to/through teenagers. Christ through you can change the world!”
During these nearly 60 years, God has opened door after door for me to have a personal ministry with over 300 local congregations across the Tri-State and beyond. My personal conviction is never to ask for the privilege of ministering, but to wait on God to open the doors when and where He chooses.
Several weeks ago, I was asked if I would be willing to speak to a small group of believers, and I said, “Certainly. Just let me know when.” Anticipating that opportunity, I began to prepare a message and a challenge from Romans chapter 12. Although the call hasn’t yet come with a specific date and time, I remain ready, willing, and waiting.
Attending a recent memorial service for a long-time friend, I was greeted by John Peach (a friend since high school), asking if I would be available at 11 AM the following Sunday, December 28. John explained that his church was hosting a youth convention, expecting several hundred to attend from all over America.
It was a joy to be introduced to the audience of 610 youth and adults, and to share God’s good news from Romans 12:1-2 and other scriptures, including God’s ABCs of salvation, and a challenge to discover God’s plan for each life. I quoted the poem left behind by C.T. Studd, missionary to Africa, who died in July 1931, the month before I was born: “Only one life, ’twill soon be past; only what’s done for Christ will last.”
For many years Mount Carmel, Illinois has carried the tagline: “The little city of great music.”
John Peach and I were in the Mt. Carmel High School band together, playing trombone. Being innovative, John put together a reunion of the trombone section several years ago, and asked me to speak on that Wednesday evening meeting in his church auditorium. A live band, mostly teenagers, performs at each service.
33 years ago, John put together a youth convention with his congregation and two others. It has grown and become an annual event. This year, teenagers attending from across the country formed a combined band of 60 at the convention, with instruments including trombone, trumpet, baritone, French horn, violin, saxophone, and flute. Multiple pianists took turns at the keyboard. It was amazing to listen to the sound quality they produced.
Approaching my high school band director, I asked if he would consider my wearing the big hat and carrying the baton to be the drum major. Pappy Perkins answered, “No, George. You can’t. You are leading the band.”
When I asked what that meant, he explained, “George, you are marching front row right gutter. Everyone lines up behind you and to your left. When you take the first step, the band follows you. When you sound the first note with your trombone, all the band members then play their instruments. Remember, you lead the band!”
Some time ago, I was with W.A. Criswell, former pastor of First Baptist Dallas. I had read a similar story in his biography and asked him about it. Dr. Criswell said, “George, we led the band. You led your high school band, and I led the Baylor University band, because I marched front row right gutter, and the entire band followed me, just like your band was following you.”
When you are in the position where God has placed you, take the first step.
Discover your destiny.
When you think right, you can do right.