God Never Gives Up

God Never Gives Up

Posted on August 28, 2018

BY TOM DUKE, GRACE ATTENDER

I have been told numerous times lately, and with very clear direction from God, that my story needs to be shared in a larger capacitybut in the meantime, heres a brief snapshot

I grew up an original member of Grace. Since 1991, my family has regularly attended this church and its always been my refuge. Since the folding chair/warehouse days as we like to call them:)

Over the years, Ive faced many difficult trials and tribulations. Quite a bit more than most my age, I am guessing. Ive dealt with many family deaths and horrific illnesses, my own personal divorce (followed by a brutal custody battle). Ive also suffered through alcohol abuse/addiction, arrests, hitting rock bottom time and time and time again until I felt that there was nothing left and there was nowhere else to go. I lost multiple jobs due to the consequences of these decisions and, from there, faced anxiety, literal and figurative demons who seemed to be much more present than humans for longer than I care to remember in my life, devastating rumors, and much more.

Because of my unwavering faith in God, a relationship and faith that grew through this church, I for the first time, can see the top! Ive taken steps to follow Him and walk this horribly obstructed path piece by piece. I dove headfirst into my deepest fears, understanding that until I dealt with the depths of MY inner issues and struggles (while holding Gods hand for strength, courage,and protection, of course), only then could I begin this journey to leading the life He intended for me to live. Humbling myself to the level necessary to allow Him to work in me.

I am now 151 days and 100% sober! Ive finally regained the trust of my friends and family, and have a wonderful relationship with my best friend and fianc. I have a valid drivers license again (at one point thought this was never going to happen). I've also made it successfully through all programs( court-appointed or not, Ive completed them and actually enjoyed them) and, in turn, have become a leader and speaker inside of them to help folks who were or are just like me. People have begun to understand and dispel with clear confidence the horrible rumors and hatred that were previously shared about me. And I know that is God working through it all.

I never thought Id be able to say I made it past day 1. God has shown me through this living hell a new direction and I believe wholeheartedly that He is leading me, steering me, PUSHING me to share this message for it to be used by Him to help others battling what can seem to be a No-Win fight. To those who have given up hope, to those who are in such a dark hole that they cant see a way out, who think there IS no way out: I am here to tell you to never give up. Never ever give up. For He will honor even the smallest step of faith. Ive been there. Nothing surprises Him, for He already knows! Find God and find a church that is willing to love and accept you for you, while also walking alongside you to push you to grow. Find people who wont let you settle; who wont judge you, who wont gossip about you, who trust you and in turn, you can trust as well. Find our loving God who wants to show you what Hes created you for! He wants you to find your purpose... and with the smallest bit of faith and hope in Him, He will show you things you never thought youd find. Dont take my word for it; take His. Id love to share my story in greater detail if and when it would be of the most benefit and Im always open if anyone would like, or just needs a friends ear. You can contact me at trduke99@yahoo.com.

What can I say? I love you all and Thank You beyond words for all that youve done for me. All My Best, Tom Duke

Comments

Brother live on in Christ

Posted by Jeff on October 5, 2018 @ 5:30 pm

I praise God for all he has done for you Tom! (Forgive me if I still call you “Tommy”!). I am so proud of you for fighting for your life with God by your side. If God is for you, who can be against you?? I am also grateful that you shared your powerful testimony with your church, Grace church. We are here for you and your fiance’/wife and your entire family. May God continue to strengthen you as you walk with Him each day. Welcome home!!

Posted by Cathy Foley on June 28, 2018 @ 2:36 pm

Thanks for sharing your story! God is faithful...all the time!

Posted by Wendy Wagner on June 20, 2018 @ 11:34 am