From Addiction to Redemption: Jacob’s Testimony

Jacob’s testimony was marked by addiction, loss, and hopelessness. But through God’s grace, he found redemption, proving that no one is too far gone for healing and transformation.

Jacob’s struggle with drugs started when he was a teenager, but his addiction deepened in his early 20s after losing his girlfriend to an overdose. Instead of facing his pain, he numbed it with more drugs. Then, within just 60 days, both of his brothers also died from overdoses. Grief consumed him, and he lost the will to live.

For 30 days straight, Jacob intentionally overdosed, expecting to die. But no matter how much he used, he woke up every time. “I was mad,” Jacob recalls. “I remember arguing with God, saying, ‘Just let me go.’” But God had other plans.

A Call That Changed Everything

On the 31st day, Jacob got a phone call from Willie Leonard at True Purpose Ministries. Willie invited him to their program, offering him a way out. At first, Jacob wasn’t sure, but after 30 failed attempts to end his life, he realized that God wasn’t letting him go. There had to be a reason he was still alive. Taking a step of faith, he entered the True Purpose program, where mentors helped him work through his pain and rediscover his identity in Christ.

One day, during a Tabernacle class, Jacob had a radical encounter with God. When the leader called for prayer, he hesitated but opened his Bible. The first thing he read were Jesus’ words:

“Do not be afraid, just believe.” – Mark 5:36

At that moment, he surrendered his past, stepped forward for prayer, and felt the weight of his burdens lifted. He believed God could heal him—and He did.

It’s Never Too Late for Redemption

In just nine months, Jacob’s life completely transformed. He found peace, restored his relationships with his family and daughter, and became a mitigation manager at Ready Now Restoration. He now helps others overcome addiction and find hope in Christ.

If you or someone you love is struggling, Jacob wants you to know that it’s never too late to turn to God. “It’s not about how many times you fall. It’s about how many times you get back up.” No matter your past, God can restore you.

Watch other stories of God’s redemptive power.