From Addiction to Surrender

Matthew doesn’t shy away from where his story began. “I started doing drugs about 15, and that kind of spiraled my life pretty quick,” he said. “I was in and out of jail, in and out of prison.”

For years, that cycle defined his life. But during his last time in prison, something began to change.

“This last time I went to prison, I just knew I wanted something different,” Matthew said. “I just kind of decided I was going to surrender my life to God.”

That decision marked a new direction.

“I started reading the Bible, going to church, getting closer to God,” he said. After being released, Matthew went to New Freedom and began looking for his next step. That is when House of Refuge Sunnyslope stood out.

“This one just kind of stuck out,” he said. “I reached out… and got in here.”

From the moment he arrived, Matthew chose a different way of living. “I just continued praying, being guided by God, and taking advice,” he said. “I was open-minded, I was listening to what was being told to me, and I was following through with it. And things were working.”

And things truly did begin to change.

Matthew found employment and stayed committed, growing step by step in his work.

“I started as a security guard,” he said. “Then transitioned to the front desk, and now I’m transitioning to a counselor.”

What once seemed unlikely is now right in front of him.

“I got a better job in my career. My career job actually starts on Monday.” But the transformation in Matthew’s life goes far beyond a job.

“I would say my restoration with my family,” he shared. “And just my ability to trust God and kind of hand over the reins… not make so many rash decisions so fast and seek counsel.”

Community has played a significant role in that growth. “Definitely the small group on Wednesday, the guys from Illuminate,” he said. “They love God. They’re on fire for God, and they really break things down.” Through those relationships, Matthew found something steady and life-giving. “Community has been big.”

As he looks ahead, Matthew is stepping into a new chapter. He recently secured an apartment, something that did not come easily. “I was getting rejected a lot of places,” he said. “Recent felonies, absolutely zero rental history. I’ve never had a lease in my name.”

But once again, God made a way.

“God opened the door,” he said. “And I got in.” Now, with a new job, a new home, and a restored sense of purpose, Matthew is focused on what comes next. “My next six months… just continue, just build relationships and keep relationships a priority,” he said. “And I’ve got to replenish my savings account.”

When asked what he would say to someone just beginning the program, his answer is simple and direct.

“First off, trust the Lord,” Matthew said. “Second, remain teachable. That was probably the biggest pillar for me. Remain teachable and trust the process… and trust in God.”

And for those considering getting involved, whether by giving, serving, or mentoring, Matthew has seen the impact from both sides.

“It’ll change your life,” he said. “I’ve seen it… as a resident and as a mentor. They get as much out of it as the residents do.”

Matthew’s story is still unfolding, but today it is marked by something that once felt out of reach—a life surrendered to God, steady growth, and a future filled with purpose.

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