New Wine Testimony: Shawne

I don't remember the first time I drank alcohol. I know I was 14 or 15 years old, but I do not remember the very first time. Of course, those first couple times were 'fun,' it was with my friends, and we were just having a 'good time.' If only I had known that this would be the start of over 20 years of alcohol and drug abuse. I could write a book about the negative aspects of my life during these 20 drunken years, but I won't. If you have been living under the influence of alcohol for any long period of time, you already know what I went through because you probably have also: infidelity, drinking and driving, and overall risky behavior in every aspect of my life.

When I was 17 years old, I had a brief moment of clarity in my life. I was introduced to church, Jesus, and given a chance to change my life. I did, but only briefly. But that foundation of truth stuck with me through my entire life. 19 years later and after about two years of drinking and driving almost everyday, I finally could not take it anymore. Mentally, I was a wreck. God never let go of me, even though I ignored Him. I admitted everything to my wife. After so many years of drunkenness and unfaithfulness, she was at the end of her rope with me. Who can blame her? I explained that I knew the only thing that was going to help me was that which was tugging at my heart. I told her that I needed God. Setting Captives Free is where I turned for help. I needed godly help. I am convinced God led me to Setting Captives Free.

As I write this I can celebrate 59 days of no alcohol! If you are not someone living in the sin of drunkenness that may not seem like much but, if you are, 59 days sounds pretty amazing. My life has been saved by Jesus. Everyday I read the Bible, everyday I pray, and everyday I walk in victory over sin because God has rescued me. My old life is gone. I am no longer a drunk. God has restored my family and my life. Yes, in 59 days! I now look forward to the rest of my life...with God.