Steal Kill And Destroy

"The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy; I come that you may have life and have it abundantly." -John 10:10 Steal Kill And Destroy, aka SKAD, is a faith based non-profit organization that reaches out to youth who often feel alone in their...

[stealkillanddestroy-blog]

Warped 2015 update 7

TWO shows left.

With only two shows left, it's hard to believe this summer outreach is coming to an end. As soon as it's over, the team will go back to their respective homes and cities, but I know they'll be changed forever from this experience. I ask that you pray for our outreach team as they leave the tour because I know firsthand how hard it is to go back to 'normal' life after two months of missions. I could never express how proud I am of this group of four that served this ministry so well this summer. They were used as catalysts of hope to so many young people this summer and many lives have been forever touched through these guys. 

"As the tour comes to a close I spent two off days in a hotel room in Vegas reflecting on the summer. It's amazing that I started the summer with the intentions of changing kids lives and I'm leaving knowing our team had an impact as well as our team being impacted. I know that personally my life has changed this summer. My perspective on a lot of things have changed. I've grown to understand our generation a little bit more. I've learned why the kids do what they. It's took meeting them where they are at to really grasp what pain their circumstances create. after seeing all the kids and hearing the stories it has changed how I view life. Everyone struggles in their own way and some deal with things you would never imagine and couldn't see yourself being able to get through. A large amount of respect is due to this generation of youth. They have more being thrown at them daily then any other generation. I'm grateful for this opportunity to serve these kids. I'm excited to see what I've learned this summer to further serve these kids in my life at home. "  -- Blake Gederberg-Outreach volunteer "This card, it instantly convicted and humbled me. Because when I first saw this man I thought, no I don't want to talk to him he might be weird. But the lord knew I needed to in order to learn a lesson about true beauty. As soon as I read his card I teared up and saw his 'incredible worth', even though my first instinct when I saw him was how the world sees him. This man was a burn victim from a young age and had scars on his face and hair line. He'd gone through years of judgment and still chooses to see beauty and worth in the world. A true beauty from ashes story! I just hugged him and told him how thankful I was for him and that his beauty and worth was beyond measure. We are there to encourage others but sometimes we are the ones encouraged and it's awesome! I have learned so much on this trip! I have gained confidence when sharing the gospel face to face and so much about discipleship. I have grown in mercy and patience. Even a bit in discipline. I have had moments with the team of anxiety for the future and of pure joy reveling in Gods miracles. There's been a lot of sweat and tears but I wouldn't trade it for the world. I'm honored and blessed to have had this opportunity with this amazing team and the amazing things we got to do. "  -- Carrie Miller-Outreach volunteer "This summer has not only been life changing for me but for the kids we've had the chance to speak with. It blows my mind still how a simple "you matter" "you are loved" "you have purpose" really changes someone's day. There is a generation of kids, teens, and young adults that are experiencing loneliness, anxiety and unworthiness at higher rates, and so many don't know where to turn. In a world that's looking for more equality, love and peace I see so many struggling to even love themselves. Continue to pray for those we have encountered this summer. That the seed of hope we help plant will give them the courage to continue on, fight hard, seek truth and above all acknowledge that worldly comforts are temporary and God is eternal, the foundation for all life. SKAD is so needed for so many young ones to have a fighting chance, to hear about a Love that is real and unfailing. Please continue to lift us up and the organization in your prayers. "  -- Avery Whitsett-Outreach volunteer "Here we are at the home stretch of the tour. I am feeling kind of tired, and I'm running out of talking energy. Sometimes the tent is placed near a stage which makes it hard to hear and you have to speak up pretty loud when you talk to kids. I didn't think this would take so much out of you. But that's not stopping us from having great conversations. I encountered a really shy girl in Ohio and we invited her to write on a card. She expressed that she struggled with self harm, self worth, and people talking down on her. She was only 15 so I had a lot to say to her about being your own person and not letting the negative things that people say to you affect your life. She still had so much to discover about herself and when she heard these words, it seemed like she was encouraged. Then we talked about her self-harming issue. There is freedom from it, she just has to choose it and fight for it. This conversation lasted quite a few minutes and at the end she asked "are you going to be a therapist? Cause you're really good". I laughed and said, no. I began to tell her that I'm not a therapist, but a messenger. A vessel of light. I asked her what she thought about Jesus. And she was uncertain on her feelings towards that. She didn't seem to know much. I took this opportunity to tell her a bit of Jesus and what He did for us. Which lead me to why I do what I do. And why I live my life to honor the Lord and glorify Him. Then we went back to the issues she wrote on the card, and I made the connection. We have an eternal Father that loves us immeasurably and wants to shepherd us through our trials and dark valleys. I always feel so privileged to speak about the Father's love and actually go in depth with it. This girl seemed to have received it well and I'm glad I got to know her a bit. This summer has been life-changing. My patience was tested, my leadership was stretched, and my love for the youth has grown. Most of all, my relationship with God is closer and more intimate than it has ever been. He brought forth a lot of healing in my life this summer. And He's continuing to show me the man that He's molding me to be. Im grateful for ALL the kids that I had the opportunity to talk to. And all the people I've met on tour. And the work the Lord did during this summer. We have two more dates, and I can't wait to see how the Lord wraps this up. "  -- Arthur Yepez-Outreach volunter

I find great joy in knowing that the Lord does not need us, but He likes to use us. That's one of the coolest gifts. So many seeds were planted this summer and we hope to stay in touch with many of these teens throughout the year via social media and email. 

Financial needs:

We are still in need of $2,800 and you can be a part of helping. I know I say it every blog, but were just making our needs known so you can be a part of this mission. Flights need to be purchased home from tour for a few of our team, so if you want to give towards that as well, I know they would be so grateful. We are being hosted in Seattle for a few days by some church planters from Tyler, so we are super thankful for that.

We asked to hear from those that stopped by our tent and this is a message from one of them:

"Last year, I learned of a tent called Steal Kill And Destroy, where you write on a little notecard either something encouraging, or something you're struggling with. I loved writing and speaking with the reps last year that I couldn't wait to come back this year. This is Arthur. I tried to sneak past the few people that were already in the tent, so I could just write what I wanted to write, and then skulk out. The two other people that were in there had left, so by the time I went to tack my notecard up on the board, he walked up to me and asked if he could read it. I obliged and pointed out which one was mine. I awkwardly stood there while he read it, and he looked at me with a look or sorrow and compassion on his face that I wanted to burst into tears on the spot. What I love about SKAD is that it's a faith based organization so that when he read the last line, "God if you're there I need to hear you now," which is a line from a Memphis May Fire song, but is heavily applying to my life at the same time, he looked at me and said, "wow, you're are totally allowed to question everything around you right now and think that nothing's there. Just know that God is there. He hears everything you say, every prayer. John 10:10 says that the thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy but it also says that I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." We went on talking for what seemed like forever and I could've kept talking for that long, but everything he said made a difference, and after all was said and done, he asked if he could pray for me. After all, that was what I was mainly there for. I just wanted someone to pray with that didn't know me, anyone I affiliated with, or anything about me, that wouldn't judge me, and would just pray with me. We stood there and prayed while again, I cried through my sunglasses. Afterwards I asked if I could take his picture, we exchanged names, and I went on my way feeling a bit better. Thank you Arthur. You have no idea how much you and your tent helped me today. Please travel safely."  -- Lillie

[stealkillanddestroy-blog]

Warped 2015 update 6

We're almost finished!

It's hard to believe that as I type this, there are only 5 show dates left. 5! Our team will have finished an intense summer of hard work, mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Not only have they woke up early every morning, stood in the hot sun and worked together as a team to set up everything before the doors open, they spent time in the word together, and they worked together to pour into thousands of young people this summer. It's remarkable what this team of four have given up to be here this summer and there are not enough words to thank them for being conduits of hope on the road for SKAD. I am personally so thankful for them and by the emails and comments we've received via social media, I know there are so many young people whose lives have been deeply impacted by this ministry. 

"A lot of the time, we have kids just hanging out in the shade of our tent because Warped Tour is just too much sometimes. They get exhausted, weary, and dehydrated. So of course we're going to let them chill in our tent, even if they don't want to hear about SKAD! There were these two guys that were in and out of our tent and every time they would come back, they would bring their friends too. One of the guys was reading all of the cards on the board. I walked over to him and said "pretty heavy stuff, huh?" I then explained what the board was about and how the first step into moving forward from our struggles is by speaking up about them. Then I walked over to the other guy and he asked a few questions of what I do within the ministry. And this lead to me talking about how our tent is a safe place at Warped Tour where teens can just come and be themselves, speak up about their struggles and they won't be judged. Then we just chatted a bit about stories. How every story matters and every life is valuable. I pointed out one of the cards on the board from a kid that was abandoned by his dad and how that kid was able to let out so much when he talked with us. And I told the guy that that's something we do as a ministry-we're here to listen. The face on this guy sort of changed and he was more engaged with what I had to say. He then asked "do you mind if I can hear your story?" I sat down beside him and said sure! Then I noticed that all of his friends were sitting in a circle tuned into what I was about to say. There were 5 of them. I shared my story from beginning to end and to where I am now. The most beautiful part was that I was able to share the gospel. I talked about how the Lord brought forth redemption and healing into my life. Though I still may struggle with some things, I have a foundation and that is in Jesus. They were engaged to the story the whole time and I praise God for that. Then it almost turned into a mini SKAD meeting. Since I opened up so much about myself, they started talking about what they were facing. And it was all related to dysfunctional family life, something that I talked about a lot when I shared my story. I sat back and listened to what they all had to say and I was just embracing the moment of transparency. I realized that so many more kids need this kind of community where they can openly share their struggles. And I was just honored to be sitting in a circle of awesome kids, sharing the gospel, and hearing stories. Unfortunately I had to lose them because their favorite band was about to take the stage and it kind of bummed me out but at least I was able to share truth with them. I truly believe that the Lord blessed these conversations because I saw a difference in each of them before they left. I noticed that one of the guys carried himself in a very tough manner. By the time he left the tent the expression on his face changed and he was no longer a tough guy, but a friend. They ALL gave me a big hug and a 'thank you' before they left, which they had nothing to thank me for! I'm always happy to share my story and about Jesus."  -- Arthur Yepez-Outreach volunteer "The feeling of loneliness can be crippling, leaving you gasping for a breath of fresh air, for someone or something to take the pain of being alone away. This week I met a girl who is crippled by her loneliness even though she's not physically alone. She left home to live with a boyfriend who doesn't treat her well and she can't return home to a house full of alcoholics. She's in a place where she hates life and doesn't want to live but also doesn't want to take her life. This had me in tears, my heart hurt for her and with her. I spent a long time encouraging her and loving on her. At the end of our conversation I had the whole team pray with me for her. I also exchanged emails with her and I'm staying in touch, to get her connected with local churches that can help her get out of her situation and help her with finding a great Christ centered community. I felt like she walked away with a renewed sense of strength. "  -- Avery Whitsett-Outreach Volunteer "Out here on the tour we are accompanied by a few other great organizations with a like-minded mission. Specifically. I have grown close to Joe from I Am Second. For the second time this summer Joe has felt the urge to introduce me to someone he felt led to bring over to me because he felt that I was meant to talk to him and would be able to relate in a way that he may not be able to. He brought over a guy named Garrett. Garrett was a big guy, similar to me but a little taller. I knew right from the start that we would have a lot in common. After talking with Garrett I could tell that he had a gentle spirit like myself and just in a big, tattooed, intimidating body. After a brief conversation we were able to relate in that way. We both have had to deal with being intimidating on the outside which growing up caused a little bit of a social barrier at times. We shared a story that was extremely similar and I am blown away that without prior knowledge, Joe was able to feel that we needed to talk. To me, this is a story about the body of Christ working as one. God has His way of using all his hands and feet out here on the tour to impact people's lives. We see a lot of division in the church today and something like this is a reminder that we are all on the same mission, serving the same king. We are vessels that can sail together. "  -- Blake Gederberg-Outreach volunteer "The ways in which God is using us to bring hope to the kids at Warped Tour is so eye opening. I've realized that while most the time I do steer the conversation towards the grace of God, I don't always have to. A lot of these kids have been hurt by religion or forced into it and have a distorted view of what Christianity is. We have the opportunity to show them what Christlike love looks like by just listening to them and loving on them. So many of them are wary to open up to us for fear that our intentions are to convert or condemn them. But once they realize we are actually there to listen to their darkness and encourage them and genuinely care, they really open up. The fact that we could be the ones that change their negative perspective on what a Christian is to a positive, is a privilege. I've also noticed this on a level beyond our tent, in our every day lives. We have that same opportunity to represent unconditional Christ like love with the people on our bus and on the tour in general. "  -- Carrie Miller-Outreach volunteer

I'm pretty sure this summer has marked the lives of many and we are looking forward to finishing out the tour strong. We do have a cost of $6,000 that we need, so if you feel led to give, please do so. Continue praying for our team because there have been some rough moments in these last few days. Our bus broke down and our team has had to separate and go on different buses, which is potentially for the duration of the tour. Thankfully the last date of the tour is 8/8, so we're on the home stretch, but we are still in need of your prayers and support.

[stealkillanddestroy-blog]

Warped 2015 update 6

We're almost finished!

It's hard to believe that as I type this, there are only 5 show dates left. 5! Our team will have finished an intense summer of hard work, mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Not only have they woke up early every morning, stood in the hot sun and worked together as a team to set up everything before the doors open, they spent time in the word together, and they worked together to pour into thousands of young people this summer. It's remarkable what this team of four have given up to be here this summer and there are not enough words to thank them for being conduits of hope on the road for SKAD. I am personally so thankful for them and by the emails and comments we've received via social media, I know there are so many young people whose lives have been deeply impacted by this ministry. 

"A lot of the time, we have kids just hanging out in the shade of our tent because Warped Tour is just too much sometimes. They get exhausted, weary, and dehydrated. So of course we're going to let them chill in our tent, even if they don't want to hear about SKAD! There were these two guys that were in and out of our tent and every time they would come back, they would bring their friends too. One of the guys was reading all of the cards on the board. I walked over to him and said "pretty heavy stuff, huh?" I then explained what the board was about and how the first step into moving forward from our struggles is by speaking up about them. Then I walked over to the other guy and he asked a few questions of what I do within the ministry. And this lead to me talking about how our tent is a safe place at Warped Tour where teens can just come and be themselves, speak up about their struggles and they won't be judged. Then we just chatted a bit about stories. How every story matters and every life is valuable. I pointed out one of the cards on the board from a kid that was abandoned by his dad and how that kid was able to let out so much when he talked with us. And I told the guy that that's something we do as a ministry-we're here to listen. The face on this guy sort of changed and he was more engaged with what I had to say. He then asked "do you mind if I can hear your story?" I sat down beside him and said sure! Then I noticed that all of his friends were sitting in a circle tuned into what I was about to say. There were 5 of them. I shared my story from beginning to end and to where I am now. The most beautiful part was that I was able to share the gospel. I talked about how the Lord brought forth redemption and healing into my life. Though I still may struggle with some things, I have a foundation and that is in Jesus. They were engaged to the story the whole time and I praise God for that. Then it almost turned into a mini SKAD meeting. Since I opened up so much about myself, they started talking about what they were facing. And it was all related to dysfunctional family life, something that I talked about a lot when I shared my story. I sat back and listened to what they all had to say and I was just embracing the moment of transparency. I realized that so many more kids need this kind of community where they can openly share their struggles. And I was just honored to be sitting in a circle of awesome kids, sharing the gospel, and hearing stories. Unfortunately I had to lose them because their favorite band was about to take the stage and it kind of bummed me out but at least I was able to share truth with them. I truly believe that the Lord blessed these conversations because I saw a difference in each of them before they left. I noticed that one of the guys carried himself in a very tough manner. By the time he left the tent the expression on his face changed and he was no longer a tough guy, but a friend. They ALL gave me a big hug and a 'thank you' before they left, which they had nothing to thank me for! I'm always happy to share my story and about Jesus."  -- Arthur Yepez-Outreach volunteer "The feeling of loneliness can be crippling, leaving you gasping for a breath of fresh air, for someone or something to take the pain of being alone away. This week I met a girl who is crippled by her loneliness even though she's not physically alone. She left home to live with a boyfriend who doesn't treat her well and she can't return home to a house full of alcoholics. She's in a place where she hates life and doesn't want to live but also doesn't want to take her life. This had me in tears, my heart hurt for her and with her. I spent a long time encouraging her and loving on her. At the end of our conversation I had the whole team pray with me for her. I also exchanged emails with her and I'm staying in touch, to get her connected with local churches that can help her get out of her situation and help her with finding a great Christ centered community. I felt like she walked away with a renewed sense of strength. "  -- Avery Whitsett-Outreach Volunteer "Out here on the tour we are accompanied by a few other great organizations with a like-minded mission. Specifically. I have grown close to Joe from I Am Second. For the second time this summer Joe has felt the urge to introduce me to someone he felt led to bring over to me because he felt that I was meant to talk to him and would be able to relate in a way that he may not be able to. He brought over a guy named Garrett. Garrett was a big guy, similar to me but a little taller. I knew right from the start that we would have a lot in common. After talking with Garrett I could tell that he had a gentle spirit like myself and just in a big, tattooed, intimidating body. After a brief conversation we were able to relate in that way. We both have had to deal with being intimidating on the outside which growing up caused a little bit of a social barrier at times. We shared a story that was extremely similar and I am blown away that without prior knowledge, Joe was able to feel that we needed to talk. To me, this is a story about the body of Christ working as one. God has His way of using all his hands and feet out here on the tour to impact people's lives. We see a lot of division in the church today and something like this is a reminder that we are all on the same mission, serving the same king. We are vessels that can sail together. "  -- Blake Gederberg-Outreach volunteer "The ways in which God is using us to bring hope to the kids at Warped Tour is so eye opening. I've realized that while most the time I do steer the conversation towards the grace of God, I don't always have to. A lot of these kids have been hurt by religion or forced into it and have a distorted view of what Christianity is. We have the opportunity to show them what Christlike love looks like by just listening to them and loving on them. So many of them are wary to open up to us for fear that our intentions are to convert or condemn them. But once they realize we are actually there to listen to their darkness and encourage them and genuinely care, they really open up. The fact that we could be the ones that change their negative perspective on what a Christian is to a positive, is a privilege. I've also noticed this on a level beyond our tent, in our every day lives. We have that same opportunity to represent unconditional Christ like love with the people on our bus and on the tour in general. "  -- Carrie Miller-Outreach volunteer

I'm pretty sure this summer has marked the lives of many and we are looking forward to finishing out the tour strong. We do have a cost of $6,000 that we need, so if you feel led to give, please do so. Continue praying for our team because there have been some rough moments in these last few days. Our bus broke down and our team has had to separate and go on different buses, which is potentially for the duration of the tour. Thankfully the last date of the tour is 8/8, so we're on the home stretch, but we are still in need of your prayers and support.

[stealkillanddestroy-blog]

Warped 2015 update 5

We have such a gift day after day to be on the road with Vans Warped Tour. Our outreach team has met hundreds of young people and heard stories that you wouldn't believe. Our goal is to provide a safe place for these young people and we are certain that is exactly what these teens are feeling when they stop by our tent this summer. 

Check out some special stories from our team from this last week.

"As the day came to a close in Holmdel, NJ a specific girl came to my attention. I could tell by the look on her face and her body language that something was troubling her. After Carrie said "Hi" to her it was obvious from that point on that she took interest to our tent and she lingered in the area until she then decided to come in the tent and read the cards on the board and we were able to share with her what we did out on the tour. She had a very short response to it something like, "this is really cool, I like this" and then we asked if she wanted to fill out a card and when she did, it was quick and she handed it to Carrie as she quickly exited the tent and walked off with a sense of shame and embarrassment. Her card indicated that she felt that it was all her fault and that she was to blame for something. After she walked off I knew God wanted me to go find her. So I walked off to track down a young teenage girl in a mass crowd during Pierce The Veil, which for anyone who knows about that band, I had my work cut out for me trying to locate this specific girl in a sea of girls in almost the same outfit as her. I searched for about 10 mins and then began to feel like I missed her and she had made off by now. Just then I stumbled upon her and went up to this nervous girl and before she was able to make eye contact with me I asked her why she felt like she was to blame. I knew that someone had done something to her that was out of her control and I told her that and right then she began to cry. I shared with her how I sensed her shame and embarrassment and I knew God sent me to find her and it was no mistake that she stumbled upon our tent today. I asked her to come back to the tent where I knew I had the girls back there who would be able to assist further and more comfortably for her because I had a feeling it was a situation involving sexual assault of some kind. When we got to the tent Carrie was able to immediately sense what was going on and took over the conversation. After the conversation she came over to thank me for seeking her out and coming back to find her. I still sensed shame and guilt on her and I once again told her she had no reason to carry those burdens anymore and that she can walk with her head up. She then cracked a smile, walked away and then stopped and turned back and took one last look at us and the tent as if she was wanting to take a mental snap shot of us so she can be reminded of today in days to come when she is troubled with her emotions. This summer has been full of stories of rape and sexual assault. It's a very real and prevalent thing in our generation. I am honored to be on the front lines this summer encountering these stories and speaking life into these kids. "  -- Blake Gederberg-Outreach Volunteer "So today a girl came into the tent acting a bit curious but hesitant, so I told her about SKAD and encouraged her to write a card if she was dealing with anything. She seemed eager to write something down, so I waited and when she was done she handed me her card and left off in a hurry before I could talk to her. Her card said something along the lines of "It's all my fault." A lot of the times kids just aren't ready to talk about what they write down, whether it's because it hurts too much or they're embarrassed. So before I could ponder her reason I was distracted by another girl. By the time I was done talking to her I noticed Blake talking to the first girl and she looked extremely shaken up. I felt immediately that I needed to comfort her and came over to hug her while Blake talked to her. He pursued her because he knew in his heart what she blamed herself for and by the time I got over there they had established that someone hurt her and he was asking what had happened so they could talk about it, but she was hesitant. I don't know if it was the Holy Spirit or the fact that I've seen this guilt many times before, but I knew in my heart what she blamed herself for as well. So I asked her if she was sexually assaulted and she nodded and I asked if it was a family member or a friend and she whispered to me who it was. I noticed she was having an anxiety attack because she was scratching her side raw, so in that moment I felt like it was time to have girl on girl time. She told me the story of what happened and why she blamed herself. She was taken advantage of in a time of vulnerability and had to learn the ugly truth about how us girls can almost never let our guard down. It's tough for a girl to know she's not the one at fault in that situation when others tell us we are. Guilt plagued her to her core because her best friend blamed her for what happened. The amazing thing though, was watching the tension melt off of her as we spoke. After having a good one on one I closed with three points I wanted her to remember when she left. 1, Talk to a counselor. 2, The only thing he took from her was her choice and it undoubtedly was not her fault. 3, Temporary things give temporary peace but our eternal God gives eternal peace. Three of the most important things I have learned from my own personal experience or experience with working with sexual assault victims. The smile on her face as we hugged and departed was priceless. The way God used Blake and I very harmoniously in that situation was really cool!"  -- Carrie Miller-Outreach Volunteer "Everything happens for a reason. I do believe in this statement. This week we had a guy come into our tent just asking if we knew anyone that sold sunglasses and took cards as payment. Apparently everyone around us only took cash. Of course I responded "hey we have sunglasses and take cards!" He told me that he had been watching a band and someone knocked off his prescription sunglasses. As I grabbed the sunglasses I heard the Lord tell me to give it to him for free. So I obeyed and said "hey brother God told me to give these to you, it's on the house." He was shocked. He asked what we were all about and I shared our info with him. He asked to fill out a card and it said he didn't feel good enough. As I started to talk to him I felt the Holy Spirit promoting me left and right in ways only could be special and mean something to him. As I was talking with him I noticed Arthur praying. Then God instructed boldness, he told me to help lead this guy to the Lord, I called Arthur to come pray over him and I lead him. Arthur had a huge smile on his face because he already knew what was going to happen, the spirit had been prompting him too. He gave his life to the Lord and the coolest part was we kept telling him God had a purpose for him that it wasn't by chance he walked into our tent. It was emotional and amazing and sometimes I can't share the tiny details because they are too precious and special for the people that we're involved "  -- Avery Whitsett-Outreach Volunteer "I can't express what an honor and privilege it is to be doing outreach on Vans Warped Tour. Almost breaks my heart that it ends in about two and a half weeks. I want to personally take the time to continue to ask for prayer. If anyone that is reading this would take time to specifically pray for the outreach team, it would be highly appreciated. The Lord is moving so much in the ministry tent and in our own lives. About two days ago, we witnessed another young person come to know the Lord. There was this young man that Avery was talking to. I saw him put his card on the board and it expressed how he doesn't feel good enough. As Avery was talking with him, I felt led to just sit and pray for this guy. I was praying for the conversation between him and Avery and for his heart. During my prayer I started to ask God to draw near to him. After repeating this prayer a few times I heard Avery call my name and I knew what was happening. She called me over to join a prayer with this guy. I briefly got to meet this incredible person and we started to pray. He repeated a prayer asking the Lord into his heart. I was almost left speechless. He was genuinely letting God into his life. What an honor it was to witness. After prayer, we chatted a little bit and he pointed out his card to me. I had already known what it had said which is why I started praying for him. And I was able to tell him that he is worth an abundant life. God didn't need us but still chose to love us. He expressed how emotionally moved he was by that sentence I said. God was already working on his heart. I can't wait to see what the Lord does for the remainder of this tour. "  -- Arthur Yepez-Outreach Volunteer

What is so unique about these stories is that these guys shared different perspectives from how the Lord is using them together to reach teens on the road. It's so very exciting to see how He speaks to our team in unity and they're working together to make His name known. We hope your heart is touched, just as much as ours are through these stories in this blog and previous blogs. There's so much to share and it's so hard to choose which ones! 

Special thanks to our friend Rachel who came out and shot some photos for us. These photos speak a thousand words. 

We still need your help fundraising.

We still owe a little over $11,000 for our bus and merchandise, so we are asking that you consider giving. Every single dollar helps us reach our goal, so please pray about it and if you feel led, give. Of course, please continue to pray for us as we finish out the next few weeks. We are confident that provision will come, but we're asking you to help us continue making a difference in the lives of the teens we come in contact with at Warped.

[stealkillanddestroy-blog]

Warped 2015 update 4

Our team is having a blast on the road. Despite the heat and hard stories, the Lord is giving them the strength each day to continue running the race. They've spoken to so many teens and young adults this summer and like I mentioned last week, we've received many messages online from them. Below are just a few of the sweet things teens have said to us.

One of our favorite ways to share how the road is going, is by sharing stories from each of the volunteers. So check them out below!

"One of my favorite conversations these past few days was with a 19-year-old guy in New York. On his card, he wrote about his cocaine addiction. I knew there was something that had to conjure up this dark habit. He then told me that he was lacking self-worth which led to his addiction. I was so angry with the enemy when I heard those words come out of his mouth. I immediately was speaking life into this guy and rebuking all of the lies that we're going on in his head. This guy had such a sweet spirit and it broke my heart that he had this heavy chain holding him down. I told him that if he remembers one thing when he leaves the tent, to remember that he is worth it. He is worth living life abundantly and free from the darkness because that's what Jesus promised us. We ended our conversation in prayer which was incredible. He said that I uplifted him so much that day, and I praise God for that. This guy heard the gospel at the tent and he heard what Jesus can do for us. He hugged me like four times before he left and I grew such a big heart for this guy. It burdens me to hear what he had to say but I'm filled joy knowing that the Holy Spirit was moving in the tent. "  -- Arthur Yepez-Outreach Volunteer "Sometimes we have kids that walk into the tent, hear what we are about and walk out. This last week this happened to us, but a little later these two girls came back. One of the girls asked to fill out an index card. As she started to fill it out I began praying for the right words to give to her. She allowed me to read the card and it said she wanted to die, she was done with life, it wasn't worth it to live, she's 15. As I spoke with her, poured into her life and spoke of God's love for her, I finally asked her what some of her hobbies and passions were. She told me she loved to draw, so I decided to introduce her to the co-owner of Choonimals (like Blake had done before) and told her about the story of how they came to be with their drawings, etc. I encouraged her to know she could use something she loved to do to give her some push to get through this time in her life, to make goals and dreams come true through hard work and time! After all was said and done I finally got her to smile and gave her a big hug. Her friend had still been following the whole time and watched and listened to everything. I stopped and introduced myself and asked what her friends name was, the girl stopped and said oh this is my mom. I was confused as to why she didn't input much while we talked. It left me feeling slightly unsettled but I stayed in prayer the rest of the day. The story really stayed with me and I'll continue to pray for her and her mother and that God shows up in a miraculous way. In the end, God is in control. "  -- Avery Whitsett-Outreach Volunteer "These past 12 days have been one heck of an experience. 12 cities in 12 days, non-stop, no off days until yesterday. Thousands of faces walking around all telling a different story but at that current moment all their stories have brought them to that one place, Warped Tour. Is it the music that brings the kids to the pain? Or is it the pain that brings the kids to the music? Is it the brutally honest and raw content that corrupts their lives? Or is it the brutally honest and raw content what brings them comfort? Questions similar to these surface from time to time from the parents that come through the tent. I'm not sure what it is that draws the parents in, for some it's the scripture "John 10:10" on the tent or maybe it's the "radical movement to wake a generation" that entices them to come talk to us. I value the conversations with parents just as much as I do with the kids. Why? Because an impactful conversation with mom or dad can create a new mindset that can carry over into their home which can have a longer lasting and a daily impact on these kids. We see card after card about kids with parents who pick on them for appearance and music taste and make them feel less than because of those choices and it breaks my heart. There's 2 kinds of parents we see at warped tour. The parents who are there and support their kids but would be more at ease being there since the kids are so young or the parent who is at warped in vain and is bitter and judgmental about the whole day. Either parent I welcome gladly into the tent. The 1st kind of parent needs to be thanked. They need to know that what they are doing has a huge impact on their kid. More than they probably hear from their kid. That kind of love and support seems to be a lost art in this scene. The second parent just needs a different outlook. I get it, you don't like the music. Understandable. They don't need to put their stamp of approval on the music, but they need to put their stamp of approval on their kid. Their kid needs to know that they are still loved and supported by their parents despite minor choices in life that they make such as music taste or wardrobe. All it takes is a simple perspective change. Many parents say, "well this music makes my kid so dark." It's not the music that makes a kid this way. In my personal opinion, the music is what helps the kid feel okay for feeling the way they do. They turn to this music because they feel something, they can relate, it's honest, it's real, and it's relevant. Radio music isn't gonna cut it for a hurting teen. These kids don't wake up feeling like P- Diddy, everyday isn't a party, and love doesn't always happen the way it seems to happen in songs. It's when the parents begin to understand that, then the understanding of their child comes easier. To me, that's a conversation I'm ready and willing to have because it gets taken home with that family. Those kids will feel the love and acceptance of their parents in a very real way. Some for the first time. "  -- Blake Gederberg-Outreach Volunteer "When I read this card I instantly felt like I was holding something so fragile. A cry for help, like seeing a flare gun spark at sea. And also the preciousness of her haunting darkness being brought to light, that opportunity being so seldom for her and girls alike. She wrote it and expressed it like it was no big deal, because this had been a fact of life for her for so long. I wondered why she hadn't gotten out of her situation and the answer came to light when she told me about her nieces. She didn't want what has been her darkness to be theirs too. She's afraid of him. She felt trapped and settled with that fact. I don't know if my words and advice resonated with her. I hope she remembers how strong she is, and brave. Brave enough to end the cycle that more than likely wouldn't end with her. I hope she remembers her worth and what truly defines her. I know I'll remember all of those things about her above anything else. Girls like her are why I'm out here, why I do what I do."  -- Carrie Miller-Outreach Volunteer

These stories are so important because they give you an idea of the depth of conversations that our team has daily-on the road and locally during our weekly meetings. We could give you numbers all day long, but these stories are like precious gems, that need to be treasured and prayed over, thought about, and our desire is to give these young people a voice. Our job is to advocate for these kids and share their stories to the world because so many people are in a little bubble and do not think these kinds of things are going on, but they are. This could be your niece, your nephew, your cousin, your neighbor, that 'punk kid' with weird hair you see at Starbucks daily, the captain of the cheerleading squad, the valedictorian, the student council president, your grandchildren, or even your child. Hurt and pain is not limited to 'troubled' looking teens. We live in a fallen world and it's bound to happen, but what can we do as a ministry to help those who are willing to confess some of the deepest, darkest, brokenness in their hearts? We can allow the Lord to use us to love them well, speak into their hearts, pray with them, and share their stories to hopefully inspire others to reach out and pour into those around you. 

Lastly, we still need your help to cover the cost of the rest of the tour. We need a little over $11,000, so please consider giving towards that. With your help, we will be able to continue to be a listening ear to young people, a message of hope to those in need, a safe place of community, and solace for the weary heart.

Thanks to everyone who has already made a donation. We honestly could not continue doing this without you. You guys are incredible!

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So many stories and struggles have been shared throughout this summer @vanswarpedtour. When we visit your city, our hope is you'll come #bringyourdarknesstolight and leave feeling hopeful. #skad #youthoutreach #warpedtour

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Send a link to your online portfolio to [email protected] and why you would want to take photos of SKAD in action at Warped! If approved, you could get a press pass to come shoot our NPO for the afternoon. Serious inquires only. #warpedtour #photography #youthoutreach

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It's never a dull moment when you visit our tent @vanswarpedtour. Come share your struggle with one of our incredible team members. They'll be that listening ear you've always longed for, a shoulder to cry on-If you need it, and they're there to speak life into your heart and hopefully you'll leave feeling inspired. 📷: @rayduker #youthoutreach #warpedtour #hope #bringyourdarknesstolight

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"Reflecting on all you have to be thankful for, is quite possibly one of the greatest things for your soul. I find myself drinking a delicious latte, listening to some tunes, reading and writing all of the things I'm so grateful for. Does it mean that life isn't still hard? No, but it takes my heart off of the bad and resets my focus. Does it mean my day will be flawless, absolutely not, but it puts my spirit at ease and reminds me to just have a thankful heart. I encourage you guys to take time for yourself today. Get alone, read, write, be thankful. Let us know if it helps you. Your wellbeing is worth it. YOU are special, loved, and never alone in life. Let freedom wash over you." @thestellamalone [founder of SKAD] 📷: @karsyndupree (at The Foundry Coffee House)

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Warped 2015 update 3

Our inbox has been filled with "Thank you's" from teens from all over. Young people and even older people are taking the time to thank our team for taking the time to listen to their story, to pray with them, hug them and give encouraging words. It is a delight each day when our inbox is read through and stories are shared of lives being changed from stopping by our tent at Warped Tour. 

"We've gotten the hang of how a day at Warped Tour looks like for SKAD. At first I wasn't too sure what to expect but I'm grateful that I have an incredible team. The heat can be very exhausting and it really does take a lot out of you. Everyday I'm desperate to find refuge in God and allow Him to fill me up. It's hard to pour into young people at Warped Tour under the circumstances of heat and loud music. So it's very important to me to get the rest and time in prayer for the strength that I need. I encountered a young guy a couple days ago that has a powerful story in the sense of him going through so much but being able to stay positive. This guy was molested when he was younger and because of that he suffered from anxiety. He's been able to overcome his past darkness and now has a positive outlook on life. I then asked him where he stands on faith and what he thinks about God. He mentioned that he's uncertain about that but yet he's open to whatever life may reveal to him. I truly believe that God is after his heart and wants to pursue it. When I told him this, his face lit up and he had a huge smile from ear to ear. I asked I could pray for him and he was more than okay with it. Being able to pray over this guy and have real conversations was such a privilege and an honor. He said that he didn't expect to have a deep conversation at Warped Tour and thanked me for taking the time to listen to him. Also for being so open-minded about his beliefs. It really hit me when he said that, because we are called to meet these kids where they're at no matter what they believed. So the fact that he felt comfortable talking to me is because of the heart of Jesus. He met people where they were at- the broken, the sinful, the weary and so on. The power of prayer is absolutely amazing, so anyone I have the opportunity to pray for is such an honor. I believe that God is going to use this young man and work in his heart, he has a powerful story and such a sweet uplifting spirit. "  -- Arthur Yepez-Outreach Volunteer "Justice. Daily I ask myself, "where's the justice?" Everyday breeds a little more longing to see justice in the lives of these young kids that come through the tent. To the girl who feels like her innocence was taken from her at a young age by someone she called dad and now has turned to exposing her scars through exploiting herself for the next guy who she can attempt to replace the images of what's been done to her with forced intimacy with the first guy who comes knocking. To the girl who has deemed herself to be unlovable because she has been abused, mentally, physically and emotionally by the very people who have brought her into this life. To the girl who's mom abandoned her leaving her no other choice but forced foster care. My heart breaks for you. As much as I want to see justice I want to even more see true healing in your lives. To have you reclaim the worth that you were tagged with since your birth. To not be ashamed of your story but to use it to reach others. May you see yourself stronger rather than weaker. You're still here. You're loved. You're not defined by what's been done to you, but by what's been done for you. You were worth it, as Jesus took their sin on His shoulders and showed you the love you deserve. There's no abandonment in His love, and there's no flaw. May you find that true love and feel its sustainability. "  -- Blake Gederberg-Outreach Volunteer "So many touching conversations have been had the last few days but today I got a glimpse of the impact we are making. This morning when I woke up I received an email from a girl I spoke with in New Mexico. It says... "Hello. This is ******* (name blocked out for privacy) you probably don't remember me but you prayed for me in Albuquerque and right now your the only person I can talk to. I'm sorry for bothering you but I just would like to thank you for what you did. You gave me that tiny bit of hope to get me going passed my suicide date I set for my self. Okay ill leave you alone. But thank you." I cried as I read it, that she had passed her suicide date. What I am doing and saying through and because of the Holy Spirit is making a difference. I was overfilled with joy all day long. I am so grateful for being apart of this tour, mission, ministry, God is at work and I'm honored to be apart of it. "  -- Avery Whitsett-Outreach Volunteer "This girl was slowly walking past our tent in Orlando Florida, checking out what we were about. So I told her about SKAD and the the bring your darkness to light campaign we were doing. She agreed with me that it was so important to not hold our burdens and struggles in and that she was still getting over what happened to her. She didn't seem interested in writing a card so I asked her what had happened. After she told me her parents died on Christmas morning, she told me that it was hard but that she wanted to focus on her dreams and doing what it takes to be happy. I was so taken back by her motivation and pursuit of happiness despite the darkness surrounding her. Darkness that she could have let control and consume her, but didn't. I asked her what her dreams were and what would encourage her, she said she was interested in music and wanted people to know her story and be influenced by it. So I thought since her story was so inspiring to me it could be even more inspiring to others. I asked her to write what she wanted to share on a card and I posted it on SKADs Instagram (all with her permission of course). I was so excited to be able to encourage her in her healing process and help get her story out there because I felt in my heart that she was going to change lives. But little did I know God had bigger plans for her story. A couple hours after I posted her story on our IG, the warped tour Instagram reposted it! Thats 700,000+ more people that saw her story! And the comments came flooding in, encouraging her, telling her how inspired they were, loving on this girl! Who just happened to walk by our tent, who God led me to just encourage, who inspired thousands within a day. Wow. God, you're really cool. "  -- Carrie Miller-Outreach Volunteer

Please continue to pray for our team. Pray that they would have energy to continue going forward each day, that they would be encouraging and walk in unity with one another  and last, but certainly most important, that each member of the team would give their day to the Lord every morning before their day is even started.

We have a cool story to share on how our last bus payment came through. We had a payment due on 7/2/15 of $5,100, but all we had was $1,500. We prayed, reached out and prayed some more. It was down to the wire and someone from the Living Acts Church donated $2,000 the day it was due, SKAD had some check donations in the mailbox when it was checked and cash to deposit from the road and daily sales that day at Warped and it all totaled down to the cent of what we needed. It was miraculous and so encouraging to our faith. We are putting full faith that if the Lord wants our team to continue to be out there, He will sustain us. We are so thankful to be surrounded by so many 'senders' and pray that if you're one, that you'll pray about how you can be a part of sowing into this ministry. As far as financial needs go, we are in need of $11,602, in which 10,200 is for the bus cost and the rest is for merchandise we purchased, so if you do decide to donate, that's where you'll money will go. We are so thankful for everyone who has given so far and cannot extend our gratitude enough. I'm hoping these stories we're sharing with you guys will continue to inspire you to pray for us and give.

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Regram from @twloha! Love working alongside this amazing team at @vanswarpedtour to bring hope to young people! #mentalhealth #hope #youthoutreach #twloha #skad #hopefortheday #heartsupport

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Something to chew on tonight for all of you night owls. #knowyourworth #youthoutreach #warpedtour #hope #nonprofit

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We are pretty excited about the new mugs we got in house. Stay tuned for these bad boys to be online. #coffeelover #nonprofit #skad #youthoutreach #skad

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Warped 2015 update 2

There are no words to express how powerful our past couple of weeks have been on the road. So many young people have entered our tent feeling despair and left feeling hopeful and encouraged. Here are a few stories.

"This past week, I think what has blown my mind the most is the level of vulnerability these kids feel comfortable being with us. Never in my mind did I ever think they would want to share the darkest parts of them with me. And in the middle of warped tour I might add, a place they came to have fun, listen to their favorite bands and let loose. I'm just a girl, I'm no counselor nor do I have experience in half the things these kids have been through. But I know pain and that we are not defined by it. And I love Jesus and I love these kids just like the rest of my team and I think that's evident first glance into our tent. They get to look at our wall and know they aren't alone in their struggles, and they know we care. We care a lot. But it's only through the power of the Holy Spirit that we are able to convey how deeply we care, and how serious we are when we say they are loved and forgiven. And only by the Holy Spirit are those words taken to heart. "  -- Carrie Miller-Outreach Volunteer "I've been really enjoying these two days off that we have since we are about to go on a fourteen-day stretch! Tour has been intensely hot but so rewarding. I'm learning and growing so much already. My heart is stretching in so many directions. For one part, it absolutely shatters me when I look into the eyes of a young teenager and they tell me that they have no purpose and no worth. Particularly, there was this 17-year-old guy that was telling me that he's always depressed because he feels like he has no one to love him. That he has no special talents or anything to show for his life. It felt like I was talking to 17-year-old me. I knew his pain, his sense of loneliness, and how he desires to belong. I couldn't help but just boldly tell him how loved he is, how he has so much purpose in this life. We talked about Jesus for a bit and how he's uncertain about faith. But he allowed me to pray for him, which I was really thankful for. Prayer is so powerful and I was able to speak hope into this guy's heart. I also met this girl that feels like the world has completely let her down. Her family issues, a boy that broke her heart, and inconsistent friends. She was able to talk about things that she desperately needed to get off her chest. I could see a sense of relief in her as we were talking. Having the world let you down is so relatable, and I expressed my growth in faith and how I find my refuge in God. Though I could get hurt, people can let me down, and sometimes situations bring out the worst in us. But I was able to tell her how Jesus brings redemption. We're always going to be attacked by the enemy but we have hope in Jesus. He will give us new mercies every day and a life to live to the full. I then told her how beautiful she was through the eyes of God and the immeasurable love He has for her. I could see tears in her eyes and it was obvious that this young girl hasn't received the love that she deserves. It was such an honor to show her the love of Christ and to hear her say "I feel so happy now" as if it had been a long time since she was last truly happy. "  -- Arthur Yepez-Outreach Volunteer "I met a 14 year old girl in San Antonino in our tent that filled out a card, her card said she always felt alone and invisible. I talked with her and encourage her, loved on her. She was so very sweet and shy but you could tell if you gave her the chance she would talk for hours and really open up. I asked her who she was here with that day, she told me she was there by herself! She is 14 years old! It broke my heart to see her there by herself at such a young age. I asked her what bands she came to see and decided that I should do something special for her, so I told her she would get to see one of her favorite bands with me, onstage! I told her I'd take her onstage to see Metro Station for their set, she instantly started crying. I met her in time for the Metro Station set and we watch the band walk back stage and then on stage, she loved every minute of it and was grinning ear to ear, and tears of joy, of course. I felt so blessed to make her day special, I thanked God for putting me here at Warped Tour to do such things for the people I encounter. I got to let her know she's never alone, God is always by her side. "  -- Avery Whitsett-Outreach Volunteer "One of my favorite moments will forever be in my heart. A girl was sitting in our tent to shade herself from the sun. Earlier, Arthur had offered her a chance to fill out a card for our Bring Your Darkness to Light campaign, but she said she didn't know what she would even write. Well, while I was talking to her about the heat, she mentioned to me that she was four months pregnant and I immediately got into "momma stells" mode and made sure she was drinking water and had eaten. Well, all of the sudden, I felt led by the Lord to tell her that her baby is a miracle and a gift and that she is going to be a great mother. She said thank you and her head hung a little low. She grabbed a clipboard and started filling out a card. When she was finished she handed me the card and it wrote "I am four months pregnant from being raped. Most people said I should have aborted, but I don't have it in me." I hugged her, prayed with her, and spoke to her about how God will take that ugly situation and make it beautiful with the precious gift of life she is carrying. She cried, smiled, thanked me, and we continued to chat for a bit. We exchanged contact information and I can't wait to hear about that precious baby and how God is going to use its life and the situation for something beautiful. So thankful to have met her today. What a gift SKAD has being on this tour"  -- Estella Malone-Founder/Director

It has been amazing seeing this team up early every morning to start their day, encouraging one another, setting up the tent, and pouring out to each kid that takes the time to come in and chat. Despite feeling tired and hot, they are so eager to show hope and love each day and it's astonishing.  Please continue to pray for the team and the kids dropping by the tent each day. That they would be able to have new eyes to see themselves the way they were designed. Please consider giving towards this summer outreach. We still owe $15,000 for the bus alone and we have a payment due tomorrow of $5,100 in which we are very short 

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Come visit us this summer @vanswarpedtour and #bringyourdarknesstolife. You may come in feeling down and hopefully you'll leave feeling filled up and encouraged. #youthoutreach #hope #skad #warpedtour

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So many incredible people @vanswarpedtour made this day so special for some of our local SKAD kids. We are so thankful for the most amazing people out on this tour that helped make it happen! ❤️❤️

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"One of my favorite moments today, will forever be in my heart. A girl was sitting in our tent to shade herself from the sun. Earlier, Arthur had offered her a chance to fill out a card for our Bring Your Darkness to Light campaign, but she said she didn't know what she would even write. Well, while I was talking to her about the heat, she mentioned to me that she was four months pregnant and I immediately got into "momma stells" mode and made sure she was drinking water and had eaten. Well, all of the sudden, I felt led by the Lord to tell her that her baby is a miracle and a gift and that she is going to be a great mother. She said thank you and her head hung a little low. She grabbed a clipboard and started filling out a card. When she was finished she handed me the card and it wrote "I am four months pregnant from being raped. Most people said I should have aborted, but j don't have it in me." I hugged her, prayed with her, and spoke to her about how God will take that ugly situation and make it beautiful with the precious gift of life she is carrying. She cried, smiled, thanked me, and we continued to chat for a bit. We exchanged contact information and I can't wait to hear about that precious baby and how God is going to use its life and the situation for something beautiful. So thankful to have met her today. What a gift SKAD has being on this tour."-@thestellamalone #bringyourdarknesstolight #hope #youthoutreach #warpedtour