One of the toughest things for me has been going to share group after telling my story. If you are unfamiliar with this process, in Celebrate Recovery, everyone meets in large group first. This is where I told my story. Afterwards we break into small groups which are gender specific to process the lesson or the testimony’s impact on you. So, last night the small group topic was my story’s impact on the men in our group. I’ve always had a very difficult time receiving compliments, but last night, it wasn’t as though I were receiving compliments. I was listening and watching how God was using His Work in my life to impact others in their own struggles. One man who has only come twice simply wept when it was his turn. He passed and later in the hour told his part. But, what was so kind to hear was the message from one of our leaders. He is the man who has replaced me as the ministry lead. He said, “This is the first time I’ve heard your story given from the freedom side. Your past doesn’t seem to have you in bondage any more. Forgiveness is evident.” I had no idea what my story sounded like before, but I can say that the one telling the story this time believes without doubt that he is a new creation–Praise God!

The journey does continues and tomorrow morning I’ll give my story in a different context with the men at the church breakfast. I pray for the one/s who need to know their secret bondage has a freedom awaiting for them!