A Fresh Start in Life

I arrived at the WSRM looking for a fresh start.  I had known for many years that my life needed a time of new beginning.  I initially thought that I would merely use the WSRM to get my physical needs met (i.e. food, clothing, and shelter), but God had much more in store for me.  What I had thought would be a short stay turned into a year long journey of spiritual transformation.  As the days went by God began to reveal His truth to me.  My faith, which up to that point had been like a roller coaster ride, was becoming a reality.  The WSRM was not only meeting my physical needs, but also providing me with a life of renewed hope in the healing and happiness found through a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Starting over meant that I had to reevaluate my spiritual life.  I had read through the Bible before, but came to the WSRM with no direction.  I accepted Christ as my Savior in 2001, but lacked the wisdom and courage to walk in the truth of God’s Word.  The desire for change had been there, but I had no plan to carry it out.  Through the WSRM I was receiving a solid foundation in the Scriptures.  Through the classes, chapel services, and counseling offered, I began seeing changes in my attitude as well as my outlook on the future. 

Upon completing the ninety day Life Builders program, I was pleased to discover that the journey I had embarked on did not have to end.  I was happy to learn that the 12 month Transformers program would serve as the place of renewal I had been looking for. This program not only served to deepen my spiritual growth, but also helped me to develop a plan for the future.  Through being counseled on how to conquer the “giants” that had held me back in life and being instructed on how to make positive decisions concerning my future, I began to experience the change I had so desperately wanted and needed in my life.   As I reflect on this journey, I am reminded of Psalm 27:11 which states, “Teach me your way, O Lord, and lead me in a level path because of my foes.” 

As I look back, I can see the positive changes that have occurred in my life.  As I fix my eyes on what is yet to come I now have the courage to trust in God’s sovereign will over my life.  He makes all things possible for me everyday.  God now sits on the throne in my heart.  It is remarkable to see how God has used the WSRM as a tool to bring about this radical transformation.

I am no longer one of the least, the last, and the lost.  What was presented to me as a year long program became a daily program which I plan to continually practice as I transition back into society.  As I rejoice over the role that the WSRM has played in my life, I can’t help but think about the many individuals who will come after me.  I am confident that they too will be presented with the tools necessary to live abundant lives in Christ.