Planting A Hunger for God’s Word in FFA youth – by Jeff Goss

Jeff Goss’s report at the FCFI annual conference focused on his recent experience at the Texas FFA conference. Jeff relates that what we are witnessing at FFA conventions across the nation is nothing short of remarkable. The hunger and thirst for God among today’s youth is real.

A Generation Hungry for Truth

The Bible reminds us in Amos 8 that there will be a famine in the land—not of bread or water, but of hearing the Word of the Lord. That is exactly what we are seeing among young people today. Surrounded by academics, sports, relationships, and entertainment, they are still longing for something deeper—something that truly satisfies.

Just as Jesus told the woman at the well in John 4, earthly pursuits can never quench the soul’s thirst. Only the living water He gives brings lasting fulfillment. As Proverbs 27:20 declares, “The eyes of man are never satisfied,” and yet Proverbs 25:25 promises that good news is like cold water to a thirsty soul. That is what we bring these students: the Good News of Jesus Christ—peace, joy, and rest that the world cannot give.

Testimonies of Transformation

Throughout the FFA conventions, students came seeking prayer, encouragement, and truth. Many already had a call to ministry and simply needed encouragement. Others were searching for peace and found salvation in Christ. Recently at the Texas FFA conference the following occurred:

• Max’s Calling – Max, a young man from Texas, lingered at our booth for three days, asking question after question about missions and ministry. After much prayer, he has answered the call to be a missionary. After a previous trip to Honduras, he is now planning to return to the mission field right after graduation. His passion for Christ is contagious and a testimony to the fire God is stirring in this generation.
• Shooter and Cash’s Breakthrough – Invited by a friend who had encountered Jesus at our booth, these two young men came carrying heavy burdens. After prayer, both testified to feeling peace, freedom, and relief from condemnation. Their faces reflected the joy of new life in Christ.
• Kenley’s Witness – Kenley shared how she came to Christ after being led by her best friend, who has since passed away. Inspired by his example, she now shines the light of Jesus to others. At the convention, she testified to God’s faithfulness and the power of one person’s witness to change lives.

Story after story confirms what Isaiah 63:1 declares: “My soul thirsts for You, my flesh longs for You in a dry and thirsty land.” These students are discovering that only Jesus can quench that thirst.

The Power of Ongoing Discipleship

We often hear testimonies from students who encountered us at past conventions. Some return to say, “I got saved here last year, and I’m still following Jesus today.” Others share how seeds planted at the booth later grew into salvation through a camp, youth group, or church.

As 1 Corinthians 3:6 says, “Some plant, some water, but God gives the increase.” Every encounter—whether planting, watering, or harvesting—is part of the eternal work of God.

Open Doors in Texas and Beyond

This year, we were invited to more than 20 schools across Texas to present the gospel. Teachers, students, and even other vendors marveled at how God was moving in young hearts. Like Philip with the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8, we were able to step into divine appointments and share the truth of Jesus in ways that met students right where they were.

Our vision extends beyond Texas. We are praying for open doors into states and regions where God’s truth is most needed—especially those influenced by “woke” culture. As we remind students, God’s Word never changes with the culture. It is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Standing on God’s Promises

One story we often share with students is of a woman who lived her whole life in poverty, never realizing she had inherited a fortune because she couldn’t read the document that entitled her to that inheritance. Similarly, many Christians live without experiencing the riches of God’s promises simply because they don’t know His Word.

The Bible contains over 32,000 promises, but they must be discovered, believed, and spoken in faith. Hosea 4:6 warns that God’s people perish for lack of knowledge. We encourage students to dive into the Word, rejoice in all circumstances, and build their lives on the unshakable truth of Scripture.

A Call to Prayer and Support

What we are witnessing is nothing short of revival. Thousands of students across the nation are encountering Jesus at our FCFI booths, being set free, and returning to their schools and families as witnesses of God’s grace.

We ask you to continue to pray:

• For the young people who encountered Jesus at the Texas FFA Convention.
• For open doors in schools across the nation.
• For boldness to bring the unchanging Word of God into places of confusion and darkness.

As Luke 19:10 reminds us, “The Son of Man came to seek and save that which was lost.” We are privileged to join in that mission and see the treasures of darkness—the hidden riches in secret places—brought into the light.

Thank you for your faithful prayers and support. Together, we are witnessing a mighty move of God in this generation.