I’m 64 years old now, and I gave my life to Jesus when I was 54. For nearly 40 years, I was addicted to drugs—mainly crack cocaine. Though I was raised in a Christian home, I rejected faith early on. I started using marijuana and alcohol at 16, then moved on to using and selling cocaine by 19.
Despite landing good jobs—including one at Delta Airlines—I lost them all because of my addiction. I went through multiple rehabs, was homeless, and ended up in both federal and state prison. I stole from loved ones, committed crimes, and was even shot at, yet somehow survived it all. My life was a cycle of destruction, heartbreak, and hopelessness. I truly believed I was beyond saving.
At 54, I was broken, depressed, and certain I would die alone. Then one Christmas, after hearing the song “Say Amen” by Howard Hewett, something stirred in my heart. I felt the Holy Spirit tugging on me. I promised Jesus that if He kept me alive until Sunday, I would go to church and give Him a chance. On December 28, 2014, I walked into GT Church in Decatur, IL—and walked out a new man in Christ.
In an instant, Jesus took away my desire for crack. It was a miracle. After decades of bondage, I was finally free. I haven’t used since. Jesus not only delivered me from addiction—He gave me a new heart. I started caring for others, stopped cursing, and even became a homeowner. He restored everything I had lost, including my dignity.
Since then, I’ve shared my testimony through Pastor Joseph Prince’s ministry, at GT Church, and on a podcast with OneWay Ministry. What I once hid in shame, I now share with boldness—because my story isn’t about me, it’s about the power and love of Jesus. He rescued me when I had nothing left, and gave me a new life.
If you’re struggling or praying for someone who is, don’t give up. Jesus can do for you what He did for me.