Rick’s Testimony

Rick  first arrived at the Columbus Rescue Mission in February 2009 Drinking and bad relationships have ruled my life in the past 20 years.  I was born in Albion, Nebraska on August 7, 1970.  I graduated in 1989 in Springfield, MO. My drinking problems didn’t really start until my late twenties.  I knew about Jesus, but didn’t really believe in Him when I first started to follow my sin problem. I lost someone I really loved because of 10 years of drinking.  But, I found out what Jesus did on the cross for me.  John 3:16 says “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life.” Then I became homeless and came to the Columbus Rescue Mission.  I started to go to church and learned more about Jesus.  I would get a job and become independent which I did.  But, it seemed like every time I would get out on my own and have a place to live; my sin would come back and drag me down again. I checked into a treatment center for alcohol and drug abuse.  After I got out I fell back into sin again; drinking and going away from God.  Except this time, I prayed to God to guide me back His way and He did.  I came back to the Columbus Rescue Mission and have joined the New Life Program as a disciple.  I want to grow in my faith and follow Jesus. Every day from now on I have to put on my armor to fight against satan.  It’s a constant battle.  Ephesians 6:10-20 says, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.  Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.  For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.  Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” I am a believer in Jesus Christ, my Lord.  Jesus paid for my sins on the cross.  God loves me and I am going to follow Jesus.  God Bless! Rick