I was saved at sixteen and later served as a youth leader and worship leader in church. However, I ended up falling into sin with my girlfriend and felt so condemned that little by little, I began to distance myself from serving. Eventually I left church and went back to my old lifestyle that God saved me from years ago.
But things were not the same as before I got saved. The Lord did not let me enjoy the world anymore, and it resulted in me seeking after Him during my backsliding. I could not understand how I could keep in touch with God while struggling with alcoholism. I did not know why I could talk to Jesus as if He was still close to me.
Soon my first son was born, and I still wasn’t grounded in any church. I slowly found myself struggling with drugs as well as anxiety and panic attacks like never before. When I was younger, I was told the angel of the Lord was about to judge me, and I would never do anything in the church. Those words stayed with me as I struggled with panic and anxiety. I was at my wits’ end.
I was lying on the floor of my parent’s house when my dad told me about a pastor who was talking about how speaking in tongues can help with combating anxiety. I had never heard anything like that before and was curious. I happened to put the television on and saw Joseph Prince preaching. I was bewildered by what I was hearing. It was at that moment I began to find hope for my soul.
I could not get enough of the gospel of grace, so I got Pastor Prince’s book Destined to Reign. My life would be forever transformed. Soon I began a new job and little by little, the Lord walked me out of depression, panic, and anxiety! It did not happen overnight because I still had to learn the truth of grace daily. Today I find myself encouraging others who still struggle with those negative emotions and strongholds.
I have not touched drugs for seventeen years. I have also been able to experience peace that surpasses understanding and unspeakable joy. I’ve learned to run to God with all my faults and fears and that I can place everything in His hands without feeling judged or condemned. Jesus has finished the perfect work for me, and I sit with Him in heaven regardless of my state. I am righteous in Him forever!
Thank you, Pastor Prince, for preaching the gospel of grace that pulled me out of the clutches of a hellish reality. I am forever grateful.
Patrick Jimenez | California, United States
