YFC Canada
When God Draws a Heart:
The Eternal Impact of a Life Transformed
By Cliff Heide
“No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them, and I will raise them up at the last day.” John 6:44
One of the most incredible privileges we have in the work we do, is to be able to bear witness to the beautiful and miraculous moment when God draws a heart to Himself. It’s the supernatural spark of eternity igniting within a soul, a divine encounter that forever changes a person’s story. In youth ministry, we witness firsthand the incredible transformation that takes place when a young person encounters the love, grace, and truth of Christ.
John’s Gospel writes that “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them…” This means that every life changed through this ministry is the result of God’s Spirit moving, calling, and redeeming. When youth surrender their lives to Christ, it is the supernatural work of God intersecting with human brokenness, offering redemption, hope, and purpose. In this we marvel at the way God chooses to use us in His work.
We’ve seen youth with heavy burdens— loneliness, addiction, depression, broken family relationships—be transformed, full of joy, peace, and a desire to live for something greater than themselves. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” That is not just a verse—it’s a living testimony we see repeated time and again through this ministry.
The work of God drawing hearts has felt particularly tangible to us this summer, as youth have had the opportunity to encounter God’s love through our camps and summer programs – with many choosing to start following Christ and surrender their lives to him.
To our faithful supporters: your prayers, giving, and encouragement are never in vain. Every campfire conversation, late-night Bible study, small group prayer time, is a seed planted in faith—and it is God who makes it grow (1 Corinthians 3:6). You are partnering in miracles, and investing in eternity.
“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.” 1 Corinthians 3:6
So, echoing the words of Paul, don’t grow weary in doing good, because every time God draws a young heart to Himself, heaven rejoices—and the ripple effect of that moment will be felt for generations. I regularly have people connect with me as adults that mention how YFC programs, staff and volunteers changed their life because they met Jesus. Thank you for being part of this incredible, eternal work!