Every now and then, it helps to hear the story of someone who has come out on the other side. Here is Chandler’s story.
At age 12, Chandler’s path to addiction began with what seemed like harmless experimentation. Despite excelling in high school sports, which temporarily kept him away from hard drugs, graduation left him without direction. Success at work brought money but led back to substance abuse and eventually prison.
The turning point came after losing his brother to violence. Consumed by thoughts of revenge and anger toward God, Chandler isolated himself, falling deeper into addiction. One night at his brother’s grave, in a moment of raw emotion, he found himself simultaneously cursing God and begging for help.
Within a week, a probation violation became God’s unexpected answer. Though initially resistant to entering Wichita Falls Faith Mission’s addiction recovery program, Chandler decided to “fake it till I make it,” attending morning worship and Bible studies with a determination to change.
“I was amazed by how much time and care the staff invested in helping us. Their dedication went far beyond just doing a job,” Chandler reflects. “Here I am, 36 years old, a grown man who’s messed up. Why are you taking time out of your life to help me?”
Today, Chandler embraces his daily walk with Christ, although he acknowledges it’s complicated. He’s chosen to stay in Faith Mission’s transition house, recognizing the importance of community in his recovery journey.
It’s a priviledge to witness God at work. He still transforms lives and I thank Him every day that he uses Faith Mission and Faith Refuge in his plan.
