For fifteen years, I was dealing with different addictions. First, I was addicted to cough syrup and pills and later to marijuana and cigarettes.

I tried to break my addictions to marijuana and cigarettes using willpower, but would end up in a worse state than before. I also tried going into rehabilitation for three months, only to end up relapsing. When I took prescription pills to fight my dependence on nicotine, I ended up sick in hospital. It was very frustrating.

Being the eldest in my family, I felt I had so many responsibilities and standards to live up to. I found myself running away from them and always felt very insecure and empty inside. I would further indulge in my addictions to fill the void within.

I felt I had reached a point where I just couldn’t see a future for myself. I even contemplated suicide but could not bring myself to do it as I believed it would put me in hell.

When my younger sister got married, I realized I needed to change and turn my life around. I visited her on the day our pastor was scheduled to counsel her family. I shared my frustrations with the pastor and he gave me Pastor Prince’s book, Destined to Reign. He asked me to get in touch with him after reading it.

The book opened my eyes to the truth of Jesus and His wonderful grace. I learned how Jesus had already saved me when He shed His blood at the cross. These truths lifted my spirit and changed my perspective on life.

I contacted my pastor after reading the book and was invited to a Bible study. My eyes were further opened to the gospel and I felt my faith strengthen. I was also baptized in the Holy Spirit during one of the sessions and began speaking in tongues! What a wonderful blessing!

On Good Friday, a preacher from a neighboring state came to my church and asked if anyone wanted healing. I raised my hand along with the congregation and he prayed for us. He also encouraged us to receive our healing by faith.

When I returned home that day, I smoked a few cigarettes. But the very next day, I chose to believe I had already received my healing. So I decided not to smoke anymore and what would happen. By the grace of God, I have not smoked a single cigarette or marijuana since, and have remained clean for almost a year now.

Indeed, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Phil. 4:13). It’s not my effort or willpower, but the Lord’s grace that helped me overcome all my addictions. My relationship with the Lord has also become so much deeper and more meaningful as I’m reminded of His love and blessings every day. Praise the Lord!