Musician helps young girls realize God’s design on their lives

NASHVILLE, Tenn.—As Francesca Battistelli performs concerts around the country, she shares life lessons, hoping to encourage young girls with the message that God has a plan and purpose for their lives—and they should settle for nothing less than what God has designed for them.

“It’s been really cool to hear stories about how so many girls are realizing that God created them uniquely and that he loves them unconditionally,” Battistelli said. “I think it’s so important for them to hear that God has different plans for each person, and they don’t have to measure up to someone else’s standards. They really are free to be who God created them to be.

Francesca Battistelli has received five nominations for the Gospel Music Association Dove Awards, including Female Vocalist of the Year, Artist of the Year and Song of the Year.

“When I was in school, I went through a time in my life where I struggled a lot with thinking that I had to be perfect in order for God to love me. I’m so thankful that’s not the case.”

At an early age, Battistelli expressed an interest in music and began performing in musical theaters and singing at church. After graduating from the University of Central Florida with a degree in English, Battistelli moved to Nashville to begin a full-time music ministry.

“While I was in college, I felt like I should be doing music but also knew that I needed to be committed to finishing school,” she said. “It was during this time that God helped me to get better at my craft and allowed me to keep pursuing music even when I couldn’t devote myself to it full-time.

“When I moved to Nashville, it was tough because I didn’t know anyone and had to leave everything that was comfortable to me. But I’ve found that it’s during these times of feeling inadequate and stepping outside my comfort zone, that God is teaching me the most valuable lessons about relying on him.

“My parents have always encouraged me to take bold steps for Christ. Through each experience, the Lord constantly shows me that it’s worth it to trust and obey him.”

In 2008, Battistelli released her debut album, My Paper Heart, which contains a collection of songs about life and faith. 

Because of the authenticity and vulnerability expressed in her songs, Christian radio stations around the country have been inundated with requests for her songs.

This year, Battistelli was nominated for a Grammy award and garnered five nominations for the Gospel Music Association Dove Awards, including Artist of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year and Song of the Year.

In addition, Battistelli’s songs have received prominent placement in the movie Julie and Julia, and television programs including Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, The Biggest Loser, The Hills and So You Think You Can Dance. 

Through these opportunities, Battistelli has been given many platforms to share about the hope and security that she has because of her relationship with Christ.

“Ultimately, I want to be an encouragement as a believer,” she said. “I’ve been through so many experiences where I have known sorrow, and I have known joy.  During these times, God has spoken quietly the words of his heart, and he has shown me colors in the grayest hues of winter. 

“He has sung songs over me in solitude, and he has never let go of my fragile heart. He knows every corner of it—the tattered, torn and untouched places. He knows the songs that move it, the words that pierce it, and the people he uses to change it. So, I know that I am forever safe in his hands and want to share the message of hope with others.”