What's Your Redemption Story?

In the Navy, it seemed like I was at the top of my game. But when I got out in 2003 at 40 years old, I had to start over working for companies that cared more about the bottom line than about people. That went against my grain. I worked hard, climbed the corporate ladder, but nothing ever satisfied me. I was being consumed.

Government ship repair contracting was good for a while, but with a new administration, ship repair funds quickly dried up.  Then the 2008 housing crash hit, and we lost two houses.  Personally, and financially, I was at rock bottom. Trying to hold on to a professional reputation, my family was adrift, living in a small apartment. I was angry at the world and with people. My drinking, coupled with drug abuse, nearly destroyed me, my family, and my life. I even contemplated taking my own life.

In desperation I told my wife, ‘Find us a home where I don’t have to interact with people.’ She found one in East Palatka, Florida, and in 2010 we moved there. Out of a promise to her, I attended a small church—and that’s where God got a hold of me. He directed my steps, gave me peace and purpose, and kept opening doors that I walked through, often times hesitantly.

Fast forward to today—I now serve God in many roles including here at 91.3 Hope FM and as Associate Pastor of Trinity Baptist Church.  Only God could do that. I know where I was, I know where He’s taken me, and I know Who holds tomorrow.

Everybody’s got one — a redemption story. What’s yours?

Maybe it’s the moment you found hope when everything seemed lost. Maybe it’s how Jesus turned your brokenness into a testimony of grace.  However it happened, your story matters — and it can inspire someone else who needs to hear it.

We’d love to hear your redemption story, and with your permission, even share it with others to encourage hearts across our community.

Click here to record your story (please be brief, it only goes up to 90 seconds) and let us know how God wrote redemption into your life. Or email it to me at ricky@whif.org.

Because everybody’s got a story. What’s yours?