Blog

   Once you experience redemption and restoration through your faith in God, life takes on a new meaning. Free from addiction, heartache, pain, and disappointment, you can finally live the life that God intended for you. However, even in this newfound freedom, there is an ongoing battle that persists. Satan relentlessly tries to deter you from God's path, seeking to drag you back into the pits of despair. Today, I want to share my personal experience and shed light on the continuous struggle we face, and how relying on God can help us overcome these challenges. 

   For years, I found myself caught in a relentless cycle of running, desperately seeking an escape from the pain and heartache that plagued me. I couldn't pinpoint where I was headed; all I knew was that I wanted the suffering to cease. Perhaps, deep down, I hoped that by disregarding the harsh reality of the hellish existence Ricky faced during his active addiction, it would all magically disappear. Maybe my constant running was merely a coping mechanism or a survival strategy to navigate the countless hardships we endured.

Time is an invaluable currency that shapes our lives and uncovers profound truths often overlooked. I have personally witnessed the devastating power of addiction and the immense pain it inflicts on both the individual and their loved ones. However, through my own journey of transformation and newfound understanding, I have come to realize the importance of empathy, grace, and the unwavering power of God's truth in leading us to redemption.

The holiday season, meant to be a time of joy and celebration, can be especially challenging when addiction has a grip on you or your loved one. I recall the haunting memories of past holidays with Ricky in the struggle of addiction, and how they filled me with dread and sorrow.

The path we have traveled to reach this point today has been filled with challenges, but it has also been undeniably miraculous. Only God himself could have orchestrated the events that saved Ricky's life and restored our marriage. Throughout our difficult journey, we both made mistakes. I used to rationalize Ricky's actions, blaming them on his drug addiction and believing that he wouldn't hurt me if he were sober. However, during his last relapse, I could no longer justify the deep wounds caused by his choices. That experience played a significant role in my complete surrender to God.

In life, we often face situations that challenge us to our core. For Ricky, his battle with addiction was one such struggle that tested not only his resilience but also the faith and strength of those around him. As someone who stood by Ricky's side throughout his journey, I discovered a profound lesson about the power of surrender and prayer.