"Real People, Real Choices"
These aren’t polished stories or made-up tales. They’re from real people, in real places, living real lives. To protect privacy, we only share partial names and locations — but the truth of their journeys is what matters most. Each story shows that no matter where you come from, or what you’ve been through, God can meet you right where you are.
James P., Brooklyn, NY
“I was addicted for years. Drugs had me chained, and I thought there was no way out. My family gave up on me, my friends were gone, and I was just existing, not living. One night, I hit rock bottom. A friend who hadn’t spoken to me in months called and said he was praying for me. At first, I brushed it off, but something stuck.
Over time, I started to notice small changes. A little more strength each day. A little more hope. I picked up a Bible and read words that felt alive. Slowly, I realized I couldn’t do this on my own — but Jesus could.
Today I’m free. Not because of my willpower, but because He broke the chains I couldn’t. My past doesn’t define me anymore — His love does.”
Maria R., Dallas, TX
“After my divorce, I felt like my life was shattered. I carried so much guilt and anger that I couldn’t see a way forward. I blamed myself, I blamed others, and I even blamed God. For months I lived in a fog of loneliness and pain.
One Sunday, I walked into a church I had never been to before. I sat in the very back, hoping no one would notice me. As the music played and people prayed, I felt something I hadn’t felt in years — a whisper inside that said, ‘You’re not done yet.’
That moment changed me. It didn’t erase the hurt overnight, but it gave me hope. Step by step, I began to heal. I’m learning now that His love never left me, even when I pushed Him away. My story isn’t over — it’s just beginning again.”
David L., Newark, NJ
“I grew up on the streets, running with the wrong crowd. Trouble was normal, and jail time felt like it was waiting for me. Eventually, that’s where I ended up. Locked up, angry, and convinced that my life was already written.
But in prison, I met a man who carried himself differently. He had peace, even in the middle of all that chaos. He told me about Jesus, and for the first time, I actually listened. Something about his words hit me deep.
Behind bars, I found freedom. Jesus broke through walls I thought were permanent. Today, I’m out, working, and mentoring young men so they don’t make the same mistakes I did. My past doesn’t hold me anymore — I’m walking a new road.”
Angela M., Chicago, IL
“When I lost my son, my world collapsed. There are no words for that kind of pain. Every morning I woke up wishing it was just a nightmare, but it wasn’t. I cried out to God, asking why He would let this happen. I wanted to give up completely.
In the middle of my grief, something unexpected happened. A neighbor came by and prayed with me. She didn’t have fancy words, just love. In that moment, I felt God’s presence holding me up, even though the pain was still raw.
He didn’t erase my grief overnight, but He gave me strength to keep going, one day at a time. Now, I use my story to walk with other mothers who’ve faced the same loss. We cry together, pray together, and find hope together. God is teaching me that even through heartbreak, His love is still here.”