Thank you for being so vulnerable and real about a subject that is sometimes taboo. God is always working. Even when we don’t see it or feel it. Thank you and God bless.
Thank you very much for your thoughtful comment. I agree with you. God is always working, so we must keep praying and never give up. Blessings to you!♥️
I don’t know how I ended up with your videos but what a blessing you are. I pray Gods strength over you and your family and especially your son and everyone going through this in Jesus Name. This is NOT your fault. Shame on people saying that at a time when you need encouragement more than criticism. I’ve witnessed this. DONT STOP PRAYING. GOD WILL TURN AROUND!!! I’ve witnessed it many times!!!! You are loved my dear sister in Christ!!! I’m literally grabbing breakfast in ChickFilA drive thru holding back tears. ❤
What a precious message that has encouraged me tonight. Thank you so much for your words and for taking time to send them. Blessings to you, sweet friend. ♥
Sherry your strength and faith are such an encouragement! Your son knows he is loved and one day he will cry out to the his Lord and God will hear! My prayers are with you as you walk this journey! May God’s love and peace continue to surround you and strengthen you!!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I have a child who is into the occult and drugs. I have no idea if she is alive or dead. Her birthday was July 26. It’s hard. Please pray for her and me. Also a radical liberal daughter who will have nothing to do with me because I’m Christian and she doesn’t want her kids exposed to that. She was the sweetest most wonderful child growing up until she went to the University of Washington. She has 3 beautiful children that I have never spent time with. Please pray for me! And them! I have been going thru cancer and I’m thankful I haven’t had to deal with her and I honestly don’t know if I want to. I’ve been in such pain
I am so very sorry for all you are going through, friend. Having an illness like cancer is more than enough to cope with on its own, but dealing with wayward children or alienated children is a heartfelt pain that can't be described. I will pray now for your daughter who just had a birthday. And also for your other daughter. Praying is the most powerful thing we can do for our loved ones. Even when we don't know what to ask for, God hears our prayers and understands. ♥
College attendance has robbed many young people of their faith. But keep praying for your daughter! When our drug addicted child was on life-support due to an overdose, the Lord showed me and a friend, independently, a vision of Jesus, sitting across from our daughter and in conversation, preparing her for heaven. The third confirmation came after her death, when her sister asked the Lord, where her sister was. The Lord then highlighted a wall plaque which said “Just another day in Paradise“. What a merciful God!
Which version of Christianity is your daughter rejecting?? Her childhood version or the one of fundamentalists so often seen in the news these last few years?? Ask your daughter which values she lives by & wishes to pass onto her family. You might be surprised by the underlying basis, no matter what she recognizes...
Only compassion and empathy from me. I walk this journey with my daughter.... She now has severe cancer and neurological damage. She's 32. God have mercy on us all. ❤️🙏🏼 Margaret Elaine
Thank you for sharing. I have two sons that have been on drugs since they were teenagers. We did all we could for them but like you said it only helps for a while. I have one son in prison and one that stays with me. He works but all his money goes for drugs. He overdosed a couple of weeks ago, I found him in the bathroom I called 911 and they came and revived him but that hasn’t slowed him down and he’s 45. I son is violent and I’m afraid of him. I keep praying and believing God will move him out of my home. I know exactly the road you’ve walked down because I have also walked it. Keep me and my sons in prayer. I’m praying for you and your family ❤🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
I am sorry to read of this, Rita, and to know of the heartache you have experienced. I am praying for you right now, that the Lord will give you protection and guidance each step of the way. ♥
Beautiful story. Thank you for sharing so openly and honestly. Your son is a person first. A person with a substance use disorder. (Not…. He is an addict.) Again, thank you for your precious story of loving kindness and hope.
I just want to.offer some encouragement. Two of my sons cause me to get on my knees quite often. I keep wondering why God isn't "working". I have been decluttering my house for two years. It doesn't look like it. In fact it looks worse than ever. It is astounding the amount of work I am doing, shredding of papers and sorting, etc. I looked around yesterday and thought...it doesn't LOOK like I am working, but I am. And a lot is getting done behind the scenes. As soon as I said that in my mind, I heard in my Spirit....."So am I. You just don't see it yet." i got chills, just knowing it was the Lord speaking to me. I hope this helps someone. Please pray for my sons, and I am praying for yours.
Amen. And....I came to seek and save the lost. And...His mercies are new every morning. I agree with all mothers here in prayer for God's merciful interventions in our sons' lives. Amen.
@summerrose4286 Thank you for sharing this important reminder that God is in control and is always working even when we can't see it in our human frailty.
@summerrose4286 Thank you so much. This was so encouraging to me in different areas of life. My Prodigals… homemaking-declutterring… my own spiritual growth and obedience… May God bless you and your children abundantly( and Sherry and her children too) in Jesus Amazing Name above all names. Amen.
My youngest of 3 sons is estranged from me and its very painful. He is 35 and started ignoring me right after he graduated from college. His name is Joshua, so I cried right along with you as you read from the Book of Joshua. You are certainly not alone, nor am I.
I felt that I should respond. I'm being ignored as well by a child in her 40s. The hurt is deep & strikes most profoundly in the middle of the night. It seems that I am being punished for becoming a widow. It's probably more complex than that, but the timing is awful. I will pray for reconciliation for you & your son. No one understands unless they've been there.
I’ve walked this road for 17 years. It’s literally hell on earth. It’s nothing we have done. You can’t make someone an addict just like we can’t make them sober. Prayers for you and all.
My husband and I walked that walk with our youngest son and I can relate to everything you shared. My husband made him move out of our house when he was 15. He was skipping school and making drug deals in our front yard. We made arrangements for him to live with one of his Uncles but he never did. Living through those years was the hardest thing I ever did. And if hadn’t been for Jesus walking with me and sending people to encourage me I am sure I would have given in to despair. I can remember thinking that I just didn’t want to care any more. We were so battle weary after years of believing lies and being devastated when we learned the truth. When the teachers and police talked to me about my son it was like they were talking about someone I did’t know. One of the things I came to understand so much better was God’s love for us, his lost and sinful children. No matter how much I wanted to let him go and not care anymore my love for him would not let me. After many years God delivered him and he returned. He has now been married for 17 years and he and his wife have a son. He has held down a good job for 18 years. When our son returned my husband started going to church with me every Sunday. We will celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary this month. I am telling you this to encourage you just like people did for me when I was in what I refer to as the Valley of the Shadow of Death like you are now. No matter where your son goes Jesus is right there with him. And he will continue to pursue him. Nothing is too hard for God.
I cannot tell you how much I appreciate testimonies from people who have not yet had the “happy ending” and may not ever have it but are still trusting and faithful to our Lord. It means so much to hear stories like this from believers like you. Thank you so much!
Thank you for sharing this, Sherry. My son has been clean for about 12 years. To GOD be the glory. My prayer is that your son will get free from his addiction. And that you will have a peace that passes all understanding. ❤🙏
Yes it does, friend. Thanks so much for watching, for supporting me, and for sharing. It's tough to be vulnerable but I felt God leading me to do it. ♥
I understand having a deep love for a child but at the same time feel like the love is missing in action?.. it's really hard to explain. Like the deep love is there but lost? Like all the ways they are mean to you, rejecting you, lying to you, slandering you to your grandbabies.... seem to outweigh the love they should be showing you. And you want to just stay away from them because you're struggling and fighting against anger, bitterness, resentment, not wanting that to show through to them. And they are so clueless. 😢😫
I understand, dear Karin. I have had all these feelings too. In my heart, I believe we can love certain people best when we love them from a distance. We can still pray for them and make ourselves available. But we don't have to participate in being abused by others, even those who are our own children. This, to me, is the definition of tough love. Essentially you can say, "I love you, But I won't let you destroy me. I have others who need me and depend on me. This requires me to take care myself. The best way for me to help you is to allow you the same freedom God has offered me: The freedom to make your own choices. If your choices take you away from me, I will be sad. But I will accept it. Please know I will never stop praying for you. I will never stop loving you. I am here for you, whenever you are ready to do what's right."
I am the mother of an addict. My husband and I are raising her daughter. It has been a tough three years. I cried so hard I damaged my vision. I cannot live in her world. I struggle with forgiveness. I am so angry with her. She did all this on purpose. I don't like the person she is now. But mostly I am sickened by what she has done to her precious daughter.
Please understand that she is not of herself, she is owned and blinded by the spirit of addiction, whatever that addiction is. Remember that forgiveness is for you so you can rid the pain, resentment and disappointment from your every day living. It doesn't mean you have to have a relationship with the person you're forgiving it just means that they no longer have power over you your thoughts or your heart..🙏🏻✝️💞
My heart is with you. Please do not give up on your son. I have 2 children (adults) who are addicts. So I have been in your shoes. Place your son at the foot of the cross…give him to Jesus.
My son died at age 47 after drinking himself to death in his hot tub. He had had successful treatment about a year before that. We didn’t even know he had backslid until the police knocked on our door in the middle of the night. Ten years ago and I miss him every day. My first born, beloved son. His father, my ex, died two years later of alcoholism. I’ll never get over it.
My youngest son got into drugs at the age of 17. He is 42 now and he is an addict. This is the hardest thing I have ever had to deal with. I have tried everything I could think of. The bottom line is this, you did not make this choice for your son. He is the only person that can stop this madness. I went through years and years of the ups and downs, still am. Every day I wonder if he is alive or dead. No parent should ever have to go through this. But I have no idea how to stop it. I am raising his son now.
unfortunately, I can say I know what you have been through with your son. Thank you for your honesty and heartfelt video. I pray for your son, my daughter and all who are going through troubled times.
You are an angel sent by God to me…my heart so burdened as my dear son is in the throes of his addiction…been praying throughout the night…he is 45 and rejects me and help…I don’t know you but I Love you…you made me feel cared for…thank you!❤
My heart goes out to you. It is so hard to be in this situation. We call on God to give us peace and strength. He is our hope and he is faithful. Sending love your way. Blessings.
Thank you for sharing truthfully and vulnerably about your life and struggles. The church needs to be better about sitting with people in their pain rather than trying to find a quick fix and move on. We learn so much about God's character in our trials and once you've gone through a deep valley, you're able to comfort others who are going through a similar one. My son has been estranged from me for 3 1/2 years and it's such a heart wrenching thing to go through but I am growing during this time and pray that God will open his heart to return to Jesus even if he never speaks to me again. May both our boys experience SOZO, being saved, delivered and healed, and presented to the Father fully sanctified in Christ one day.
How could a parent refuse to let them live in their home? We are living this right now. We are saying no, and there are many reasons. Thank you so much for sharing.
@@wanderinghome9979 Unless you are in it with a child, you don’t get it. Outsiders like to look in and bring ridicule. Criticism and judgment can be harsh.
I KNOW YOUR PAIN. It is SO painful for the parents of these children. At night I have the hardest time remembering what I’ve done wrong with mine but each person has to make their own choices. GOD has been my comforter especially when others have judged us. Bless you Dear Sister ❤
😢I feel your heart, I am so sorry. A mothers heart can hurt so much. The verse you mentioned was special to my oldest son as well. He has gone through a lot the last few years and has yet to come back to the Lord. Thanks for sharing. Love and God bless❤
My heart breaks for you. I have a son and just can’t imagine losing him to an addiction. I pray that one day he will return to you clean and restored. ❤ thank you so much for sharing your story! 😢❤
It's too easy to fall into the "armchair quarterback" syndrome. Until a person has walked through difficult times, we need to keep our judgements to ourselves and pray for compassion for others.
The dad of the prodigal son was never criticized for his parenting. I’ve beat myself up often over my parenting even though in the situation I was in, I did the best I could. One day the Lord told me, “Look at me. I’m a perfect Father and see how rebellious my children are?” 😮 He also said, “if you don’t think I can fix him what makes you think you can?” Seems the trick is knowing exactly what to do and what to let go of and let God (the Serenity Prayer). It is 💔
Prayers sweet, Sherri. We have 3 children, the 2 oldest ones being our boys, the youngest being our beautiful daughter. She is an addict! Our hearts have been broken so many times! I've prayed and cried so many tears and will continue to do so. Her story is a long one, but she has a heart of gold. I would appreciate any prayers you can spare! ❤
Hi Deborah....Thank you so much for sharing this with me. I am so sorry your daughter is going through addiction. It is painful on so many levels. Please know I have paused right here and now and said a prayer for your girl. I pray for her healing and restoration. Praying for you too, friend. ♥
Hi Ms Sherry please know God hears and sees you he knows your weakness and your strength I’m praying for you I loss my son 1 year ago from suicide he was 21 years old he struggled from depression which he hid well and we didn’t know but his friends new also my son never left a suicide note nothing but he committed suicide and took his life and as a mother I struggle with the loss of my son daily I have my good days and bad days but once I let go of my anger and gave everything to god for my son’s suicide I found peace I love you my sherry teen suicide is devastating in young men and women let’s pray for our children I love you sherry indefinitely ❤
I have walked this road. It’s beyond heartbreaking. This was the main reason I quit congregating because people say the wrong things that hurt. Totally understand the numbness and despair 💔
My son and I are not in contact. After watching 13 trips through rehab and I had enough of the lies and manipulation. But I sure do get that feeling you mention of when you see someone on the streets with a sign. I actually found myself watching youtube videos people make of the homeless encampment in the same city where he currently is. I am looking to see if he is there, since he has had bouts of homelessness. But even if he is, there isn't much I can do unless I want back on that merry go round - I had to get off - it was killing me. I pray for God's mercy and compassion on these addicts - He is their (and our) only hope.
We do the best parenting we can with what we know. But when they become of age, it is their responsibility to become their own good parent. All we can do is in our minds wrap them in their favorite blanket and turn them over to God to do what we can't.
God bless you. Many of us have children who have broken our hearts, but we still love them. We just can't enable them in their addictions and illnesses. That sounds easy, but it is so very hard. We pray, we love, and we trust God.
The Devil is a conniver & a liar & a thief. He knows each & every deceitful way to get at each of us. He knows our weaknesses. Hope in our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ. He is working. He will conquer. Prayers for all battling any addiction & for the loved ones who suffer with them.
My respect for you grows, Sherry. My first husband was an addict. It was hell on earth. On this day, your son's birthday, I pray he lives up to his verse, that God restores what the locust has eaten, and that He uses your courageous honesty to rescue many others in similar situations. So much love for you, Michele
Thank you so much, Michele. I am sorry to hear about your first husband's addiction. Perhaps God developed our connection because he knew you and I had been through similar challenges and would be able to share a deeper understanding. Thank you for your prayer for our son. I love and appreciate you and your ministry. ♥
My heart understands your son life as I have a grandson who two years after high school that he did not want to be a man any more he wanted to be a woman. And begun the medical treatment for a physical change . The family tried to help him rethink his plan for a few years . He chose to continue his and to remove his family. We have not seen him or talked to him in 8 years. I understand your pain. He is still your family. My prayers go with you. I too pray for all our wayward souls.
I’m in my early 70s, and my former husband had addictions, though he has now passed on from heart issues. My own Dad was, back in the 1930s through 1950s, (obviously before my birth) an Alcoholic and would spend extended time away from home, leaving Mama and children alone. My two oldest brother got into trouble and that didn’t help! When I was about 8 years old, He promised God and Mama, to get help, quit drinking and become A better man. This doesn’t usually work out, but he actually followed through, hard as it was! I didn’t know the details until much older, of course! I do remembered Daddy going with us to church! It was amazing; by then, I was near 10 yrs. old, and he went down front, repented and told his story! Soon he was Baptized, as was I, my sisters and Mama was re-Baptized! Unfortunately, the two brother I mentioned, live away from town, up north. They did not believe Daddy had become Christian and sober, and working steady . They weren’t interested in Jesus, at all! Later on, the third brother came back home after Army Service, and few years later, he accepted Jesus, married and good family love was Around! Eventually, the oldest brother moved back home and he came to Hesus, with his wife already believing. One holdout brother, never wanted anything to do with it! Time moved on, our Dad passed after long illness, and later. Mama passed from heart problems. By this time, I was divorced, as well as a sister. Now, younger of brothers divorced. Later, the holdout brother decided The Lord was good, Other issues came and went, and always, Jesus courage, strength and Grace gave each of us what was useful for the time and place. Today, I battle chronic pain, from auto-immune diseases, mostly Lupus and Kidney , heart and Lung disease, for past 27 years. Jesus helps every day, especially when I’m at the lowest. His Grace is sufficient, and Mercy everlasting and new every morning! Amen 🙏🦋🙏🦋🙏 Prayers for you and family, and your son . 🙏🦋🙏🦋🙏
Oh I appreciated this video which I just came across today, a year later. I am living the same life with my 26 year old son. I’ve always felt completely isolated bc I don’t know anyone in a similar circumstance. It is such a hard ordeal to go through. Thank you for sharing.
I feel your pain. I admire your courage to tell your story. I am the mom of an alcoholic and I watched my husband die of this disease at age 52. I should have done tough love with my husband. Maybe he would be alive today. I am currently doing this with my 41 year old son. It is heart breaking.
Hello ❤️❤️❤️❤️ From South Africa, My TWO sisters are addicts, the one is a alcoholic and the other is a drug addict. I come from a family of 6. The addict always thinks they are the one suffering... they are getting high or passing out drunk, it is the family members who suffer the most. I don't cry easily... But when you looked into the camera and the tears in your eyes...I burst into tears... I am SOOOO happy I found your channel ❤️❤️❤️ PS The eldest sister who is a addict, also super smart her birthday is 9th April. the other addict is the youngest sister. they are "functioning" addicts.
Hi Penny...thank you so much for sharing about your family with me and for watching my video. Everyone who loves an addict knows the pain that comes along with it. I'm sorry you are going through this with your family members. ♥
The book, Setting boundaries with your adult children, it's such a good book for us who taveled this road. I read it when I knew there would be an intervention with my son. The suthor is Allison Bottke. I heard sbout this book from Focus on the Family years ago.
I have been subscribed to your channel for quite a long while now; I have your home spun binder video saved and downloaded because one day when I become a wife and mother I plan to have such a folder. When I saw that video I could never have imagined that you were dealing with all this. I sincerely hope your son gets clean and for good and rebuilds his life and that your relationship with him is re-established. Not that I know you personally but you seem like an excellent mother. That video of your binder has been so inspirational to me. You are organised and caring and sometimes life just throws curveballs regardless of all the safeguards and processes one puts in place.
Thank you so much for this comment. It has touched my heart....so much so that I read through it twice. I appreciate your encouraging words today and I thank you for your support over the years. Many blessings to you. ♥
Thank you, for sharing. We've been through a similar situation with our daughter. Many tears and prayers have filled the last 8 plus years. God is good and we know we are not alone or abandoned.
Never loose hope and God has Him in his struggle. The Lord is watching and has him in the palm of His hand mama. Trusting and believing Him for your son.
Our daughter was addicted to pain medication that was perscribed by her doctor when she had back surgery and it ended up being done a second time. She finally went to rehab and she has been 2 years cleaned, She refuses all pain medication now unless it is under a doctor's supervision like when she had surgery on her hand. She had the medicine before and after surgery but came home with nothing but taking an aspirin for pain.
Hi Betty. Thank you so much for sharing this with me about your daughter. I am thankful she is clean for 2 years. Praise the Lord! I pray for all those who are going through addictions. It is hard for everyone involved.
What a conduit you are for us parents who also have Prodigal children. May the Lord continue to comfort you in your suffering. Might I share one of my favorite quotes during my grief after losing my husband tragically: There is no pit that God is not deeper still. Corrie Ten Boom I pray God’s Spirit and his people will bring you much comfort today. ❤
Amen Trudy! Love that quote. I also love this quote by Charles Spurgeon: "I have learned to kiss the waves that throw me up against the Rock of Ages” I know how easy it is to feel shame over a wayward child or other trials we face. But we all have trials of one kind or another. Whatever drives us closer to Jesus, we should be grateful for it. To me, this is what the Scripture is saying when it tells us, "In everything, give thanks."
Sherry, my heart goes out to you & your husband. I. too lost a son but in a different way. He was a Christian but he took his life. He was the most wonderful son growing up & to the end but it happened!
Oh Barbara. I am so sorry. My heart is sad over your loss. There are so many things about life that we will never understand...but one day. Thank you for sharing with me. Sending love to you. ♥
I can relate with this so much. I have a sibling who's addicted to opioid pills, its horrible. I wonder when her life will turn around. When we can wake up from this nightmare.
God's Word always wins. His Word and purposes never change. If there is anything of good report or worthy of praise - it is our Lord. And that is what downcast, contrite and lowly humans can trust. Amen
Oh My Dear! I'm so sorry that you have had to walk this road. I have walked this road with you for the past 15 years. It truly is like walking through the valley of the shadow of death. Every emotion that you shared, I was right there with you. Hold on to the knowledge that truly God has not abandoned your son. 5 years ago I got word and my son had been arrested and was going to be spending many years in prison. I was thankful to God, because finally he had my son somewhere where he could really work on him. Today my son is 5 years sober, out of prison for a year and is walking close with God. I still struggle with the knowledge that any minute that could change. But the realization that no matter what God is with him, I think that will see me through whatever the future holds. Thank you for sharing your story! You are right, unless you've gone through this you can't understand any of the emotion, the fear, the sense of betrayal, the ups the downs. You have done well Sister, you are not alone, as you know from your devotional and from all of the testimonies here in the comments. God be with you my dear.
❤️Sherry so sorry to hear of your son’s struggles. As parents we hurt deeply when our children are hurting. I hear your heart. It can feel very hopeless and overwhelming when there is nothing we can do. God has your son . Remember God has you too and knows your heart and sometimes when you feel you don’t know what to pray God knows. Will keep you and your family in prayer 🙏❤️❤️
Thank you so much, Cindy. I know you are a woman of faith and that you are dedicated to God's Word. Your sweet words have served as a comfort to me. I appreciate your prayers and all the ways you have supported me through the years. May the Lord bless and prosper you, friend. ♥
God bless you and I pray He wraps his arms around you and gives you peace. My daughter and I have not spoken in 7 yrs. It’s not because of an addiction, but of just canceling me in this new world of thinking. I have been to the lowest of lows and I know how you must feel as a mother not knowing where her child is. It is so heartbreaking. I pray he recovers and comes home, to his earthly home, as well as his spiritual home. Sending prayers for your family❤
Sherry, I watched your video again. Oh, my dear sister, my heart grieves along with you. Thank you for being so open about your personal life. My son has struggles, too. At this time, he is doing okay and has wonderful mentors in his life. He, at times, feels discouraged how, as a Christian, he could sin against God. He has good times and bad times but knows and is reminded by others that he is not abandoned by God. How wonderful God gave you those verses for this particular day, so perfect for your son's birthday. God's way of telling you he's with you always. ❤
My heart goes out to you. Thank you so much for sharing, & showing the strength God gives us through our trials & tribulations! Through you God has touched my heart too! ❤
I have learned a hard truth since my children have been grown and that is no matter how great a job we do as parents our children are going to do what they want to do. It's no your fault or my fault that our children make bad decisions. But I recall a passage of scripture that says teach them the way they should go when they are young and when they are old they will not depart from it. So I believe all of the wonderful things yall taught him about GOD is still with him somewhere inside. I pray for a peace in your heart that passes all understanding sweet lady. Thank you for sharing this challenging part of your life in order to help others. GOD Bless you always.😊
Thank you for sharing your story it hits very close to home and is heartbreaking. Those who haven’t been through this can’t possibly understand. You live with sadness constantly.
I recently started following you. Hearing your testimony about your son touched me so much. Jesus always shows up on time. 😢😢😢 Keep praying and keep believing my devotion today--Persistence in prayer is what Jesus is calling us to! What are you believing for? What do you need God to do in your life? It’s time to be faithful to pray and continue in prayer until the answer has come. Sometimes we’ll like the answer, and other times we won’t but don’t stop short of Heaven’s Answer. Spiritual fatigue in prayer is a common tactic of the enemy; if he can get us to back up and back down from prayer, then he’s got us. But, if we remember that God speaks and answers, we’ll persist in making requests of Him. The verses end by asking, “Will He find faith.” What a powerful and convicting line. Will He find faith in us, or will we quit? Faith will be revealed by our persistence in prayer! CONFESSION I will pray and keep on praying until I see the victory! Luke 18:1-8 NIV [1] Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. [2] He said: “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared what people thought. [3] And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice against my adversary.’ [4] “For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, ‘Even though I don’t fear God or care what people think, [5] yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won’t eventually come and attack me!’ ” [6] And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. [7] And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? [8] I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” Confirmation sister, keep praying even if you don't feel it. It's a spiritual battle. Put on the amor. Love you sis.❤❤
My heart goes out to you as you share your story about your son. Our son was such a fun kid, but at 16 years old he began trying drugs and things just snowballed from there. We also tried multiple rehabs, programs, compassion, tough love, and the list goes on. He eventually served time in prison. He has been out of prison for five years. He still struggles with the addiction, but so far he is winning. He describes the desire like the old cartoons with the devil sitting on your shoulder tempting you. He says the desire is just always there calling to him. My prayer is that one day that desire will go away, but until then that he has the strength to fight it. Over the last 5 years, we have been rebuilding our relationship with him and it is so much better. Anytime someone asks about him, though, my answer is, "He is doing well TODAY." Who knows what tomorrow could bring....He is 36 years old, and it has been a tough road. I will keep your family in my prayers. Bless you, and thank you for sharing your story.
Thank you for your vulnerability and sharing your battle and faith. Our son is not what you would label a true addict, but he is attracted/addicted to all things- drugs, sex, any teaching or philosophy that is ant-God. He has been in and out of our lives and gave up his 3 sons years ago. We continue to pray for him, and God is at work even when we don't see it. Prayers for you and your family.
Hello from Greece! Happy anniversary for your son. It is an intense trial that he is going through and with him the whole family. Thank you for being so honest with this. I hope that he understands that he is not abandoned, that he has a family who loves and accepts him and above all, a God who performs miracles. Your son is very young. Do not lose hope.
Thank you for sharing and being transparent. I am also walking through this with my son. I am ministry too. The battle is real. I pray for my son and for all this generation who struggle with addiction. May the Lord heal and deliver our kids! Sending hugs!
Keep praying for your son. Prayer works! Don't give up praying for his deliverance! Only God can do miracles. With man it is impossible but with God all things are possible! Hang in there and keep praying!
My parents and I have walked a simila road with my brother.Never homeless always in contact.He has a family and all 3 are grown now.He even went to prison twice for piddly stuff.Never drugs.Now at 72 lives within 15 minutes of me.Daddy & mom were to helpful at times during his time as a wayward person but I didnt say anything..His last time in prison mom & dad both passed from cancer.That had to hurt him.so.much.So I pray for his salvation .Other times I thank God for it as if it is done.Thank you for being strong enough to share .It is great therapy..I know... 18:44 .
Sherry, I know this was from last year but I so appreciate your openness and willingness to be vulnerable with us. I appreciate you. "Never abandoned"-God is always with us.
Thank you for your honesty. I'm living the same except I do talk to him. He is in CA and we live in GA. God bless. Friend from North Georgia Mountains.
I just came across your videos they are very inspirational. You are an awesome speaker. Have never heard of scripture writing and was intrigued. I do journal and have a creative Bible that you can colour etc. I find it hard to remember scripture. I figured it maybe was my age as getting older. I know I have to write things down to process things especially when I was in school for exams etc. As you were speaking about your son I thought about something I heard recently “God loves him ever so much more then we can imagine” He hears your heart and knows what you are feeling and sees your tears. Will pray as the prodigal came home your son will come home as well. ❤
I love how you are trusting the Lord in the middle of all the pain. I will be praying for your son that God will break through all the junk and draw him into His heart and that one day soon all your prayers will be answered. ♥️🙏
Thank you so much for sharing your story. The timing of it showing up in my feed today was God ordained. My oldest son is 40 and has struggled with addiction for over 20 years. Just today he is in crisis again. My Bible study just this morning was on Joshua 1 too. Gods timing is perfect.
I am so sorry that you are experiencing this, Sharon. And I'm sorry your son is going through this crisis. I'm stopping to pray for both of you right now. ♥
There is nothing you could have done to prevent this. I'm so sorry for the hateful ways people chose to treat you instead of being merciful and loving.
I stumbled upon your channel today & have watched several of your Scripture writing videos, which were wonderful! Then just watched this. It shows that you posted this a year ago, but the intensity of your encouragement & vulnerability is clearly touching so many of us even a year later! Thank you so much for living out your love for our Precious Savior and showing us how to be faithful to Him during heartbreak. Praying He is close to you today, and praying He shows His mercy & love to your dear son. Glad to be loving the Lord & His Word with you!
I understand exactly how you feel. Even though your son has not seen you or is in touch with you, you are experiencing a sort of grief. I can relate as my oldest son committed suicide last August. I never thought he would do something like that. I was and still am decimated by this. I don't think I will ever get over it. I will keep you in my prayers. There is still hope for your son!
Hi Bev...I am so sorry about your son. I wish I had the right words of comfort. Thank you for sharing with me and for praying for me. What a blessing that is.
Sherry I am so very sorry that you and your husband and family have been and are suffering so much. You know of course that addiction is horrendous for the addict as well and I'm sure your son did not want to betray or hurt you in any way but was doing what he felt he had to do to survive and get from day to day. He maybe did really want to get a job but the effects of the drugs took that away from him. I don't believe anyone wants to be an addict or remain one in spite of all the help given but they are no longer in control once addicted so can't stop even though they desperately want to. I am praying for you all that you will feel supported and protected and that God and Our Lady will bring your son home safe and well soon. God does work miracles every day. Nothing is impossible for God. God bless you all, love Vera in Northern Ireland ❤
My Goodness.......I understand why God called you to create a channel. Thank you for letting His light brightly shine through you. You exude humilty, sweetness, truth, great warmth and love. These are all from our glorious God! I am blessed by you ❤
So refreshing to hear honesty and truth regarding the pain of loving addicts. Jesus delivered me 40years ago of many addictions and yet I get attracted to other addicts and the emotional pain is enormous…. I found Al-Anon very helpful throughout the years I feel like giving you a warm hug and also pray your son will be delivered. He (Jesus) seeks the lost sheep 💜 Leave us 99 who are ok to seek the broken and the lost God is so good 🌸
Thank you for being so vulnerable and real about a subject that is sometimes taboo. God is always working. Even when we don’t see it or feel it. Thank you and God bless.
Thank you very much for your thoughtful comment. I agree with you. God is always working, so we must keep praying and never give up. Blessings to you!♥️
I don’t know how I ended up with your videos but what a blessing you are. I pray Gods strength over you and your family and especially your son and everyone going through this in Jesus Name. This is NOT your fault. Shame on people saying that at a time when you need encouragement more than criticism. I’ve witnessed this. DONT STOP PRAYING. GOD WILL TURN AROUND!!! I’ve witnessed it many times!!!! You are loved my dear sister in Christ!!! I’m literally grabbing breakfast in ChickFilA drive thru holding back tears. ❤
What a precious message that has encouraged me tonight. Thank you so much for your words and for taking time to send them. Blessings to you, sweet friend. ♥
Sherry your strength and faith are such an encouragement! Your son knows he is loved and one day he will cry out to the his Lord and God will hear! My prayers are with you as you walk this journey! May God’s love and peace continue to surround you and strengthen you!!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thank you so much!♥
I have a child who is into the occult and drugs. I have no idea if she is alive or dead. Her birthday was July 26. It’s hard. Please pray for her and me. Also a radical liberal daughter who will have nothing to do with me because I’m Christian and she doesn’t want her kids exposed to that. She was the sweetest most wonderful child growing up until she went to the University of Washington. She has 3 beautiful children that I have never spent time with. Please pray for me! And them!
I have been going thru cancer and I’m thankful I haven’t had to deal with her and I honestly don’t know if I want to. I’ve been in such pain
I am so very sorry for all you are going through, friend. Having an illness like cancer is more than enough to cope with on its own, but dealing with wayward children or alienated children is a heartfelt pain that can't be described.
I will pray now for your daughter who just had a birthday. And also for your other daughter.
Praying is the most powerful thing we can do for our loved ones. Even when we don't know what to ask for, God hears our prayers and understands. ♥
Thank you so much for your comforting reply. I will pray for your family, too!
College attendance has robbed many young people of their faith. But keep praying for your daughter! When our drug addicted child was on life-support due to an overdose, the Lord showed me and a friend, independently, a vision of Jesus, sitting across from our daughter and in conversation, preparing her for heaven. The third confirmation came after her death, when her sister asked the Lord, where her sister was. The Lord then highlighted a wall plaque which said “Just another day in Paradise“. What a merciful God!
God bless you!! You can still love them and pray for them from afar. No one has the power to stop that.
Which version of Christianity is your daughter rejecting?? Her childhood version or the one of fundamentalists so often seen in the news these last few years?? Ask your daughter which values she lives by & wishes to pass onto her family. You might be surprised by the underlying basis, no matter what she recognizes...
Only compassion and empathy from me. I walk this journey with my daughter.... She now has severe cancer and neurological damage. She's 32. God have mercy on us all. ❤️🙏🏼 Margaret Elaine
I'm so sorry, Margaret. May the Lord bring comfort to your heart as a mom and also to you daughter and all she is experiencing.
Thank you for sharing. I have two sons that have been on drugs since they were teenagers. We did all we could for them but like you said it only helps for a while. I have one son in prison and one that stays with me. He works but all his money goes for drugs. He overdosed a couple of weeks ago, I found him in the bathroom I called 911 and they came and revived him but that hasn’t slowed him down and he’s 45. I son is violent and I’m afraid of him. I keep praying and believing God will move him out of my home. I know exactly the road you’ve walked down because I have also walked it. Keep me and my sons in prayer. I’m praying for you and your family ❤🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
I am sorry to read of this, Rita, and to know of the heartache you have experienced. I am praying for you right now, that the Lord will give you protection and guidance each step of the way. ♥
Thank you Miss Sherry ❤❤️🙏🏻🙏🏻
The Lord go after the one…Holy Spirit draw this son back to You!
Amen and Amen ❤
Beautiful story. Thank you for sharing so openly and honestly. Your son is a person first. A person with a substance use disorder. (Not…. He is an addict.) Again, thank you for your precious story of loving kindness and hope.
I just want to.offer some encouragement. Two of my sons cause me to get on my knees quite often. I keep wondering why God isn't "working".
I have been decluttering my house for two years. It doesn't look like it. In fact it looks worse than ever. It is astounding the amount of work I am doing, shredding of papers and sorting, etc.
I looked around yesterday and thought...it doesn't LOOK like I am working, but I am. And a lot is getting done behind the scenes. As soon as I said that in my mind, I heard in my Spirit....."So am I. You just don't see it yet." i got chills, just knowing it was the Lord speaking to me.
I hope this helps someone. Please pray for my sons, and I am praying for yours.
Praise the Lord for this good word. I love the Scripture out of John 5: 17, in which Jesus said, "My Father is always working and so am I." ♥
Amen.
And....I came to seek and save the lost.
And...His mercies are new every morning.
I agree with all mothers here in prayer for God's merciful interventions in our sons' lives. Amen.
@summerrose4286 Thank you for sharing this important reminder that God is in control and is always working even when we can't see it in our human frailty.
@summerrose4286 Thank you so much. This was so encouraging to me in different areas of life. My Prodigals… homemaking-declutterring… my own spiritual growth and obedience… May God bless you and your children abundantly( and Sherry and her children too) in Jesus Amazing Name above all names. Amen.
So good! Thank you for posting!❌⭕️❌
drugs are strong, but God is stronger❤️✝️🕊🙏🏼
My youngest of 3 sons is estranged from me and its very painful. He is 35 and started ignoring me right after he graduated from college. His name is Joshua, so I cried right along with you as you read from the Book of Joshua. You are certainly not alone, nor am I.
I felt that I should respond. I'm being ignored as well by a child in her 40s. The hurt is deep & strikes most profoundly in the middle of the night. It seems that I am being punished for becoming a widow. It's probably more complex than that, but the timing is awful. I will pray for reconciliation for you & your son. No one understands unless they've been there.
@@sherrycortese5856 And I will pray for you also.
I’ve walked this road for 17 years. It’s literally hell on earth. It’s nothing we have done. You can’t make someone an addict just like we can’t make them sober.
Prayers for you and all.
Thanks so much, Yvonne.
Until they, the addict, decides to change their life, no one can do it for them .
My husband and I walked that walk with our youngest son and I can relate to everything you shared. My husband made him move out of our house when he was 15. He was skipping school and making drug deals in our front yard. We made arrangements for him to live with one of his Uncles but he never did. Living through those years was the hardest thing I ever did. And if hadn’t been for Jesus walking with me and sending people to encourage me I am sure I would have given in to despair. I can remember thinking that I just didn’t want to care any more. We were so battle weary after years of believing lies and being devastated when we learned the truth. When the teachers and police talked to me about my son it was like they were talking about someone I did’t know.
One of the things I came to understand so much better was God’s love for us, his lost and sinful children. No matter how much I wanted to let him go and not care anymore my love for him would not let me.
After many years God delivered him and he returned. He has now been married for 17 years and he and his wife have a son. He has held down a good job for 18 years. When our son returned my husband started going to church with me every Sunday. We will celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary this month.
I am telling you this to encourage you just like people did for me when I was in what I refer to as the Valley of the Shadow of Death like you are now. No matter where your son goes Jesus is right there with him. And he will continue to pursue him. Nothing is too hard for God.
Thank you for sharing your story with me, Vivian. So thankful your son is doing so well! ♥
@@thehomespunwife You are so welcome
I cannot tell you how much I appreciate testimonies from people who have not yet had the “happy ending” and may not ever have it but are still trusting and faithful to our Lord. It means so much to hear stories like this from believers like you. Thank you so much!
Thank you for this comment Terri. ♥
As long as there is breath, there is hope.
💜🙏💜
That's what my mother always said. ♥️
Oh my goodness. Thank you for sharing. The truth is we don’t know unless we walk in their shoes. My heart breaks for you. We all have our hurts.
You had me crying with you 😢. Sending hugs! 🤗💖
Thank you so much, Shosho. Your hugs mean a lot!♥
Thank you for sharing this, Sherry. My son has been clean for about 12 years. To GOD be the glory. My prayer is that your son will get free from his addiction. And that you will have a peace that passes all understanding. ❤🙏
Praise the Lord! So thankful your son is clean, Karen. I appreciate your prayers, friend.
I shared this with my sister before even finishing it. She desperately needs to hear this. Deep love hurts deeply
Yes it does, friend. Thanks so much for watching, for supporting me, and for sharing. It's tough to be vulnerable but I felt God leading me to do it. ♥
I understand having a deep love for a child but at the same time feel like the love is missing in action?.. it's really hard to explain. Like the deep love is there but lost? Like all the ways they are mean to you, rejecting you, lying to you, slandering you to your grandbabies.... seem to outweigh the love they should be showing you. And you want to just stay away from them because you're struggling and fighting against anger, bitterness, resentment, not wanting that to show through to them. And they are so clueless. 😢😫
I understand, dear Karin. I have had all these feelings too. In my heart, I believe we can love certain people best when we love them from a distance. We can still pray for them and make ourselves available. But we don't have to participate in being abused by others, even those who are our own children. This, to me, is the definition of tough love. Essentially you can say, "I love you, But I won't let you destroy me. I have others who need me and depend on me. This requires me to take care myself. The best way for me to help you is to allow you the same freedom God has offered me: The freedom to make your own choices. If your choices take you away from me, I will be sad. But I will accept it. Please know I will never stop praying for you. I will never stop loving you. I am here for you, whenever you are ready to do what's right."
I am the mother of an addict. My husband and I are raising her daughter. It has been a tough three years. I cried so hard I damaged my vision. I cannot live in her world. I struggle with forgiveness. I am so angry with her. She did all this on purpose. I don't like the person she is now. But mostly I am sickened by what she has done to her precious daughter.
Please understand that she is not of herself, she is owned and blinded by the spirit of addiction, whatever that addiction is. Remember that forgiveness is for you so you can rid the pain, resentment and disappointment from your every day living. It doesn't mean you have to have a relationship with the person you're forgiving it just means that they no longer have power over you your thoughts or your heart..🙏🏻✝️💞
I can relate. I will pray for you
I am so sorry. It is a difficult road to walk. Sending hugs to you.
My heart is with you. Please do not give up on your son. I have 2 children (adults) who are addicts. So I have been in your shoes. Place your son at the foot of the cross…give him to Jesus.
My son died at age 47 after drinking himself to death in his hot tub. He had had successful treatment about a year before that. We didn’t even know he had backslid until the police knocked on our door in the middle of the night. Ten years ago and I miss him every day. My first born, beloved son. His father, my ex, died two years later of alcoholism. I’ll never get over it.
I'm so so sorry. My heart goes out to you. May the Lord comfort you with his peace.
My youngest son got into drugs at the age of 17. He is 42 now and he is an addict. This is the hardest thing I have ever had to deal with. I have tried everything I could think of. The bottom line is this, you did not make this choice for your son. He is the only person that can stop this madness. I went through years and years of the ups and downs, still am. Every day I wonder if he is alive or dead. No parent should ever have to go through this. But I have no idea how to stop it. I am raising his son now.
I am so sorry, Kate. Praying the Lord will bring us all comfort and strength. ♥
unfortunately, I can say I know what you have been through with your son. Thank you for your honesty and heartfelt video. I pray for your son, my daughter and all who are going through troubled times.
God is great and he hears our pray esp...for our love ones.
Amen to that, Susan.
You are an angel sent by God to me…my heart so burdened as my dear son is in the throes of his addiction…been praying throughout the night…he is 45 and rejects me and help…I don’t know you but I Love you…you made me feel cared for…thank you!❤
My heart goes out to you. It is so hard to be in this situation. We call on God to give us peace and strength. He is our hope and he is faithful. Sending love your way. Blessings.
Bless you, your family and son. God is greater than everything.
Amen!
Thank you for your honesty. I’ve been living a similar life. My son turned 40 on March 31st. You’re not alone.
♥️
Thank you for sharing truthfully and vulnerably about your life and struggles. The church needs to be better about sitting with people in their pain rather than trying to find a quick fix and move on. We learn so much about God's character in our trials and once you've gone through a deep valley, you're able to comfort others who are going through a similar one. My son has been estranged from me for 3 1/2 years and it's such a heart wrenching thing to go through but I am growing during this time and pray that God will open his heart to return to Jesus even if he never speaks to me again. May both our boys experience SOZO, being saved, delivered and healed, and presented to the Father fully sanctified in Christ one day.
I will certainly pray for you and your son, Lisa. Thank you for taking time to watch my video and to respond to it.
How could a parent refuse to let them live in their home?
We are living this right now. We are saying no, and there are many reasons.
Thank you so much for sharing.
Thanks for watching. Praying right now for you.
@@wanderinghome9979 Unless you are in it with a child, you don’t get it. Outsiders like to look in and bring ridicule. Criticism and judgment can be harsh.
Lifting those that are fighting addiction And their Families 🙏💟🛐☦️
I KNOW YOUR PAIN. It is SO painful for the parents of these children. At night I have the hardest time remembering what I’ve done wrong with mine but each person has to make their own choices. GOD has been my comforter especially when others have judged us. Bless you Dear Sister ❤
Thanks for sharing.♥
😢I feel your heart, I am so sorry. A mothers heart can hurt so much. The verse you mentioned was special to my oldest son as well. He has gone through a lot the last few years and has yet to come back to the Lord. Thanks for sharing. Love and God bless❤
I know this heartbreak. We have the exact same story. I hate drugs; they destroy our families.
Yes they do.
My heart breaks for you. I have a son and just can’t imagine losing him to an addiction. I pray that one day he will return to you clean and restored. ❤ thank you so much for sharing your story! 😢❤
I pray your precious son sees this video, much love ❤️
Thank you so much. ♥️
It's too easy to fall into the "armchair quarterback" syndrome. Until a person has walked through difficult times, we need to keep our judgements to ourselves and pray for compassion for others.
Your story is the story of so many moms. Thank you for showing your faith in our Father, who never leaves us alone. ❤
♥
The dad of the prodigal son was never criticized for his parenting. I’ve beat myself up often over my parenting even though in the situation I was in, I did the best I could. One day the Lord told me, “Look at me. I’m a perfect Father and see how rebellious my children are?” 😮 He also said, “if you don’t think I can fix him what makes you think you can?” Seems the trick is knowing exactly what to do and what to let go of and let God (the Serenity Prayer). It is 💔
Thanks so much for sharing the things God spoke to you. ♥️
Prayers sweet, Sherri. We have 3 children, the 2 oldest ones being our boys, the youngest being our beautiful daughter. She is an addict! Our hearts have been broken so many times! I've prayed and cried so many tears and will continue to do so. Her story is a long one, but she has a heart of gold. I would appreciate any prayers you can spare! ❤
Hi Deborah....Thank you so much for sharing this with me. I am so sorry your daughter is going through addiction. It is painful on so many levels. Please know I have paused right here and now and said a prayer for your girl. I pray for her healing and restoration. Praying for you too, friend. ♥
Hi Ms Sherry please know God hears and sees you he knows your weakness and your strength I’m praying for you I loss my son 1 year ago from suicide he was 21 years old he struggled from depression which he hid well and we didn’t know but his friends new also my son never left a suicide note nothing but he committed suicide and took his life and as a mother I struggle with the loss of my son daily I have my good days and bad days but once I let go of my anger and gave everything to god for my son’s suicide I found peace I love you my sherry teen suicide is devastating in young men and women let’s pray for our children I love you sherry indefinitely ❤
I have walked this road. It’s beyond heartbreaking. This was the main reason I quit congregating because people say the wrong things that hurt. Totally understand the numbness and despair 💔
I'm so sorry for what you have been through. Sending hugs.
My son and I are not in contact. After watching 13 trips through rehab and I had enough of the lies and manipulation. But I sure do get that feeling you mention of when you see someone on the streets with a sign. I actually found myself watching youtube videos people make of the homeless encampment in the same city where he currently is. I am looking to see if he is there, since he has had bouts of homelessness. But even if he is, there isn't much I can do unless I want back on that merry go round - I had to get off - it was killing me. I pray for God's mercy and compassion on these addicts - He is their (and our) only hope.
♥️
We do the best parenting we can with what we know. But when they become of age, it is their responsibility to become their own good parent. All we can do is in our minds wrap them in their favorite blanket and turn them over to God to do what we can't.
God bless you. Many of us have children who have broken our hearts, but we still love them. We just can't enable them in their addictions and illnesses. That sounds easy, but it is so very hard. We pray, we love, and we trust God.
The Devil is a conniver & a liar & a thief. He knows each & every deceitful way to get at each of us. He knows our weaknesses.
Hope in our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ. He is working. He will conquer.
Prayers for all battling any addiction & for the loved ones who suffer with them.
Amen.
My respect for you grows, Sherry. My first husband was an addict. It was hell on earth. On this day, your son's birthday, I pray he lives up to his verse, that God restores what the locust has eaten, and that He uses your courageous honesty to rescue many others in similar situations. So much love for you, Michele
Thank you so much, Michele. I am sorry to hear about your first husband's addiction. Perhaps God developed our connection because he knew you and I had been through similar challenges and would be able to share a deeper understanding. Thank you for your prayer for our son. I love and appreciate you and your ministry. ♥
My heart understands your son life as I have a grandson who two years after high school that he did not want to be a man any more he wanted to be a woman. And begun the medical treatment for a physical change .
The family tried to help him rethink his plan for a few years .
He chose to continue his and to remove his family. We have not seen him or talked to him in 8 years.
I understand your pain. He is still your family. My prayers go with you. I too pray for all our wayward souls.
Thank you for your prayers. I have prayed for you and your loved ones, as well. ♥️
Dear sister my tears are for you and your husband.
I have no idea what you are suffering.
Your right. Until you have walked that walk…you have NO idea.
I’m in my early 70s, and my former husband had addictions, though he has now passed on from heart issues. My own Dad was, back in the 1930s through 1950s, (obviously before my birth) an Alcoholic and would spend extended time away from home, leaving Mama and children alone. My two oldest brother got into trouble and that didn’t help! When I was about 8 years old, He promised God and Mama, to get help, quit drinking and become A better man. This doesn’t usually work out, but he actually followed through, hard as it was! I didn’t know the details until much older, of course! I do remembered Daddy going with us to church! It was amazing; by then, I was near 10 yrs. old, and he went down front, repented and told his story! Soon he was Baptized, as was I, my sisters and Mama was re-Baptized! Unfortunately, the two brother I mentioned, live away from town, up north. They did not believe Daddy had become Christian and sober, and working steady . They weren’t interested in Jesus, at all! Later on, the third brother came back home after Army Service, and few years later, he accepted Jesus, married and good family love was Around! Eventually, the oldest brother moved back home and he came to Hesus, with his wife already believing. One holdout brother, never wanted anything to do with it! Time moved on, our Dad passed after long illness, and later. Mama passed from heart problems. By this time, I was divorced, as well as a sister. Now, younger of brothers divorced. Later, the holdout brother decided The Lord was good,
Other issues came and went, and always, Jesus courage, strength and Grace gave each of us what was useful for the time and place. Today, I battle chronic pain, from auto-immune diseases, mostly Lupus and Kidney , heart and Lung disease, for past 27 years. Jesus helps every day, especially when I’m at the lowest. His Grace is sufficient, and Mercy everlasting and new every morning! Amen
🙏🦋🙏🦋🙏
Prayers for you and family, and your son . 🙏🦋🙏🦋🙏
We must not judge one another.
But pray and be wise.❤
Oh I appreciated this video which I just came across today, a year later. I am living the same life with my 26 year old son. I’ve always felt completely isolated bc I don’t know anyone in a similar circumstance. It is such a hard ordeal to go through. Thank you for sharing.
It's heartbreaking and isolating. It can be difficult to discuss with anyone. But I hope you will. You will find you're not alone. Sending hugs. ♥
I feel your pain. I admire your courage to tell your story. I am the mom of an alcoholic and I watched my husband die of this disease at age 52. I should have done tough love with my husband. Maybe he would be alive today. I am currently doing this with my 41 year old son. It is heart breaking.
I'm so sorry for the pain you have experienced. Praying the Lord will continue to guide us all as we follow him.
@thehomespunwife Thank you, dear sister in Christ.
Ran across this just when I needed it. God bless you!
Thank you!
Hello ❤️❤️❤️❤️ From South Africa,
My TWO sisters are addicts, the one is a alcoholic and the other is a drug addict. I come from a family of 6. The addict always thinks they are the one suffering... they are getting high or passing out drunk, it is the family members who suffer the most.
I don't cry easily... But when you looked into the camera and the tears in your eyes...I burst into tears... I am SOOOO happy I found your channel ❤️❤️❤️
PS The eldest sister who is a addict, also super smart her birthday is 9th April. the other addict is the youngest sister. they are "functioning" addicts.
Hi Penny...thank you so much for sharing about your family with me and for watching my video. Everyone who loves an addict knows the pain that comes along with it. I'm sorry you are going through this with your family members. ♥
The book, Setting boundaries with your adult children, it's such a good book for us who taveled this road. I read it when I knew there would be an intervention with my son. The suthor is Allison Bottke. I heard sbout this book from Focus on the Family years ago.
I have been subscribed to your channel for quite a long while now; I have your home spun binder video saved and downloaded because one day when I become a wife and mother I plan to have such a folder. When I saw that video I could never have imagined that you were dealing with all this. I sincerely hope your son gets clean and for good and rebuilds his life and that your relationship with him is re-established. Not that I know you personally but you seem like an excellent mother. That video of your binder has been so inspirational to me. You are organised and caring and sometimes life just throws curveballs regardless of all the safeguards and processes one puts in place.
Thank you so much for this comment. It has touched my heart....so much so that I read through it twice. I appreciate your encouraging words today and I thank you for your support over the years. Many blessings to you. ♥
Thank you, for sharing.
We've been through a similar situation with our daughter.
Many tears and prayers have filled the last 8 plus years. God is good and we know we are not alone or abandoned.
Amen, Judy. ♥️
Never loose hope and God has Him in his struggle. The Lord is watching and has him in the palm of His hand mama. Trusting and believing Him for your son.
Thank you so much, Kimberly♥️
I completely understand sister. Thank you for sharing. I'm in the waiting season with my family member's situation. Surrendering him to God.
♥
Our daughter was addicted to pain medication that was perscribed by her doctor when she had back surgery and it ended up being done a second time. She finally went to rehab and she has been 2 years cleaned, She refuses all pain medication now unless it is under a doctor's supervision like when she had surgery on her hand. She had the medicine before and after surgery but came home with nothing but taking an aspirin for pain.
Hi Betty. Thank you so much for sharing this with me about your daughter. I am thankful she is clean for 2 years. Praise the Lord! I pray for all those who are going through addictions. It is hard for everyone involved.
What a conduit you are for us parents who also have Prodigal children. May the Lord continue to comfort you in your suffering.
Might I share one of my favorite quotes during my grief after losing my husband tragically:
There is no pit that God is not deeper still. Corrie Ten Boom
I pray God’s Spirit and his people will bring you much comfort today. ❤
Amen Trudy! Love that quote. I also love this quote by Charles Spurgeon:
"I have learned to kiss the waves that throw me up against the Rock of Ages”
I know how easy it is to feel shame over a wayward child or other trials we face. But we all have trials of one kind or another. Whatever drives us closer to Jesus, we should be grateful for it. To me, this is what the Scripture is saying when it tells us, "In everything, give thanks."
Sherry, my heart goes out to you & your husband. I. too lost a son but in a different way. He was a Christian but he took his life. He was the most wonderful son growing up & to the end but it happened!
Oh Barbara. I am so sorry. My heart is sad over your loss. There are so many things about life that we will never understand...but one day. Thank you for sharing with me. Sending love to you. ♥
I can relate with this so much. I have a sibling who's addicted to opioid pills, its horrible. I wonder when her life will turn around. When we can wake up from this nightmare.
It is so difficult. Praying for all those who are addicted...and the people who love them. ♥️
God's Word always wins. His Word and purposes never change. If there is anything of good report or worthy of praise - it is our Lord. And that is what downcast, contrite and lowly humans can trust. Amen
Oh My Dear! I'm so sorry that you have had to walk this road. I have walked this road with you for the past 15 years. It truly is like walking through the valley of the shadow of death. Every emotion that you shared, I was right there with you. Hold on to the knowledge that truly God has not abandoned your son. 5 years ago I got word and my son had been arrested and was going to be spending many years in prison. I was thankful to God, because finally he had my son somewhere where he could really work on him. Today my son is 5 years sober, out of prison for a year and is walking close with God. I still struggle with the knowledge that any minute that could change. But the realization that no matter what God is with him, I think that will see me through whatever the future holds. Thank you for sharing your story! You are right, unless you've gone through this you can't understand any of the emotion, the fear, the sense of betrayal, the ups the downs. You have done well Sister, you are not alone, as you know from your devotional and from all of the testimonies here in the comments. God be with you my dear.
Thank you very much. So glad your son is doing well!♥️
❤️Sherry so sorry to hear of your son’s struggles. As parents we hurt deeply when our children are hurting. I hear your heart. It can feel very hopeless and overwhelming when there is nothing we can do. God has your son . Remember God has you too and knows your heart and sometimes when you feel you don’t know what to pray God knows. Will keep you and your family in prayer 🙏❤️❤️
Thank you so much, Cindy. I know you are a woman of faith and that you are dedicated to God's Word. Your sweet words have served as a comfort to me. I appreciate your prayers and all the ways you have supported me through the years. May the Lord bless and prosper you, friend. ♥
Bless you my friend❤️
I pray God continues to renew your strength like the eagle. May his perfect peace sustain you. I pray Psalm 91 over your son. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks so much, Susan ♥️
God bless you and May God restore your prodigal son to you in a healthy body fully committed to the Lord 🥰🥰🦘🇦🇺🙏🏻🙏🏻
God bless you and I pray He wraps his arms around you and gives you peace. My daughter and I have not spoken in 7 yrs. It’s not because of an addiction, but of just canceling me in this new world of thinking. I have been to the lowest of lows and I know how you must feel as a mother not knowing where her child is. It is so heartbreaking. I pray he recovers and comes home, to his earthly home, as well as his spiritual home. Sending prayers for your family❤
Thank you so much for your kind words and your prayers.♥
And praying for your relationship too!! God never fails. He is right there.
Bless you for sharing your heart and life! Those of us who have walked this walk share your pain and cry with you.
Sherry, I watched your video again. Oh, my dear sister, my heart grieves along with you. Thank you for being so open about your personal life. My son has struggles, too. At this time, he is doing okay and has wonderful mentors in his life. He, at times, feels discouraged how, as a Christian, he could sin against God. He has good times and bad times but knows and is reminded by others that he is not abandoned by God. How wonderful God gave you those verses for this particular day, so perfect for your son's birthday. God's way of telling you he's with you always. ❤
Thank you Beverly. ♥
My heart goes out to you. Thank you so much for sharing, & showing the strength God gives us through our trials & tribulations! Through you God has touched my heart too! ❤
I have learned a hard truth since my children have been grown and that is no matter how great a job we do as parents our children are going to do what they want to do. It's no your fault or my fault that our children make bad decisions. But I recall a passage of scripture that says teach them the way they should go when they are young and when they are old they will not depart from it. So I believe all of the wonderful things yall taught him about GOD is still with him somewhere inside. I pray for a peace in your heart that passes all understanding sweet lady. Thank you for sharing this challenging part of your life in order to help others. GOD Bless you always.😊
Thank you so much, Machelle.
Thank you !
Thank you for sharing your story it hits very close to home and is heartbreaking. Those who haven’t been through this can’t possibly understand. You live with sadness constantly.
I recently started following you. Hearing your testimony about your son touched me so much. Jesus always shows up on time. 😢😢😢
Keep praying and keep believing my devotion today--Persistence in prayer is what Jesus is calling us to! What are you believing for? What do you need God to do in your life? It’s time to be faithful to pray and continue in prayer until the answer has come. Sometimes we’ll like the answer, and other times we won’t but don’t stop short of Heaven’s Answer. Spiritual fatigue in prayer is a common tactic of the enemy; if he can get us to back up and back down from prayer, then he’s got us. But, if we remember that God speaks and answers, we’ll persist in making requests of Him. The verses end by asking, “Will He find faith.” What a powerful and convicting line. Will He find faith in us, or will we quit? Faith will be revealed by our persistence in prayer!
CONFESSION
I will pray and keep on praying until I see the victory!
Luke 18:1-8 NIV
[1] Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. [2] He said: “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared what people thought. [3] And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice against my adversary.’ [4] “For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, ‘Even though I don’t fear God or care what people think, [5] yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won’t eventually come and attack me!’ ” [6] And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. [7] And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? [8] I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?”
Confirmation sister, keep praying even if you don't feel it. It's a spiritual battle. Put on the amor. Love you sis.❤❤
We are praying. Prayed for him yesterday. Prayed for him today. Will pray for him tomorrow. ♥️
My heart goes out to you as you share your story about your son. Our son was such a fun kid, but at 16 years old he began trying drugs and things just snowballed from there. We also tried multiple rehabs, programs, compassion, tough love, and the list goes on. He eventually served time in prison. He has been out of prison for five years. He still struggles with the addiction, but so far he is winning. He describes the desire like the old cartoons with the devil sitting on your shoulder tempting you. He says the desire is just always there calling to him. My prayer is that one day that desire will go away, but until then that he has the strength to fight it. Over the last 5 years, we have been rebuilding our relationship with him and it is so much better. Anytime someone asks about him, though, my answer is, "He is doing well TODAY." Who knows what tomorrow could bring....He is 36 years old, and it has been a tough road. I will keep your family in my prayers. Bless you, and thank you for sharing your story.
Thank you for your vulnerability and sharing your battle and faith. Our son is not what you would label a true addict, but he is attracted/addicted to all things- drugs, sex, any teaching or philosophy that is ant-God. He has been in and out of our lives and gave up his 3 sons years ago. We continue to pray for him, and God is at work even when we don't see it. Prayers for you and your family.
Thank you so much...and I have prayed for you just now as well. May the Lord be with us.
Hello from Greece! Happy anniversary for your son. It is an intense trial that he is going through and with him the whole family. Thank you for being so honest with this. I hope that he understands that he is not abandoned, that he has a family who loves and accepts him and above all, a God who performs miracles. Your son is very young. Do not lose hope.
He was 38 this year and we continue to pray for him, wherever he is.
Thank you for sharing and being transparent. I am also walking through this with my son. I am ministry too. The battle is real. I pray for my son and for all this generation who struggle with addiction. May the Lord heal and deliver our kids! Sending hugs!
Amen, Sandy!! ♥
Your love of God is shining through your tears for your Son. God bless you and keep you. ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you, Judy!♥️
Keep praying for your son. Prayer works! Don't give up praying for his deliverance! Only God can do miracles. With man it is impossible but with God all things are possible! Hang in there and keep praying!
Amen. We are praying! Thank you!
Oh Thank you Jesus for this sweet woman you have walking amongst us, I know you are so good you are the hope of this world.
I so needed to hear this today. Thank you for your honesty and wisdom.
My parents and I have walked a simila road with my brother.Never homeless always in contact.He has a family and all 3 are grown now.He even went to prison twice for piddly stuff.Never drugs.Now at 72 lives within 15 minutes of me.Daddy & mom were to helpful at times during his time as a wayward person but I didnt say anything..His last time in prison mom & dad both passed from cancer.That had to hurt him.so.much.So I pray for his salvation .Other times I thank God for it as if it is done.Thank you for being strong enough to share .It is great therapy..I know... 18:44 .
Addiction is a terrible disease. I am so sorry for you and your family. This is heartbreaking. I hope your son gets better.
Sherry, I know this was from last year but I so appreciate your openness and willingness to be vulnerable with us. I appreciate you. "Never abandoned"-God is always with us.
♥️
Thank you for your honesty. I'm living the same except I do talk to him. He is in CA and we live in GA. God bless. Friend from North Georgia Mountains.
I just came across your videos they are very inspirational. You are an awesome speaker. Have never heard of scripture writing and was intrigued. I do journal and have a creative Bible that you can colour etc. I find it hard to remember scripture. I figured it maybe was my age as getting older. I know I have to write things down to process things especially when I was in school for exams etc. As you were speaking about your son I thought about something I heard recently “God loves him ever so much more then we can imagine” He hears your heart and knows what you are feeling and sees your tears. Will pray as the prodigal came home your son will come home as well. ❤
Thank you for your sweet words and for your prayers. They are a blessing indeed.
Thank you Sherry for your honesty. I pray the Lord helps your son and he can overcome the world.
Thank you so much. ♥️
I love how you are trusting the Lord in the middle of all the pain. I will be praying for your son that God will break through all the junk and draw him into His heart and that one day soon all your prayers will be answered. ♥️🙏
Thank you so much. ♥
Praying for you & your family Sherry. May God put his living arms around you.🙏
Thank you so much, Diana. Your kindness is a blessing. ♥
Thank you so much for sharing your story. The timing of it showing up in my feed today was God ordained. My oldest son is 40 and has struggled with addiction for over 20 years. Just today he is in crisis again. My Bible study just this morning was on Joshua 1 too.
Gods timing is perfect.
I am so sorry that you are experiencing this, Sharon. And I'm sorry your son is going through this crisis. I'm stopping to pray for both of you right now. ♥
There is nothing you could have done to prevent this. I'm so sorry for the hateful ways people chose to treat you instead of being merciful and loving.
♥️
I'm so thankful I found this
♥
I stumbled upon your channel today & have watched several of your Scripture writing videos, which were wonderful! Then just watched this. It shows that you posted this a year ago, but the intensity of your encouragement & vulnerability is clearly touching so many of us even a year later! Thank you so much for living out your love for our Precious Savior and showing us how to be faithful to Him during heartbreak. Praying He is close to you today, and praying He shows His mercy & love to your dear son. Glad to be loving the Lord & His Word with you!
Thank you so much for your kind words. What a precious gift it is to be encouraged during times of difficulty. Thank you for praying. ♥
I understand exactly how you feel. Even though your son has not seen you or is in touch with you, you are experiencing a sort of grief. I can relate as my oldest son committed suicide last August. I never thought he would do something like that. I was and still am decimated by this. I don't think I will ever get over it. I will keep you in my prayers. There is still hope for your son!
Hi Bev...I am so sorry about your son. I wish I had the right words of comfort. Thank you for sharing with me and for praying for me. What a blessing that is.
Sherry I am so very sorry that you and your husband and family have been and are suffering so much. You know of course that addiction is horrendous for the addict as well and I'm sure your son did not want to betray or hurt you in any way but was doing what he felt he had to do to survive and get from day to day. He maybe did really want to get a job but the effects of the drugs took that away from him. I don't believe anyone wants to be an addict or remain one in spite of all the help given but they are no longer in control once addicted so can't stop even though they desperately want to. I am praying for you all that you will feel supported and protected and that God and Our Lady will bring your son home safe and well soon. God does work miracles every day. Nothing is impossible for God. God bless you all, love Vera in Northern Ireland ❤
♥️
My Goodness.......I understand why God called you to create a channel. Thank you for letting His light brightly shine through you. You exude humilty, sweetness, truth, great warmth and love. These are all from our glorious God! I am blessed by you ❤
Thank you very much, Shanon. ♥
Jesus stands at the door knocking. It's up to us as to whether we open the door and invite Him in, or walk away. He never forces His will on us.
So refreshing to hear honesty and truth regarding the pain of loving addicts. Jesus delivered me 40years ago of many addictions and yet I get attracted to other addicts and the emotional pain is enormous…. I found Al-Anon very helpful throughout the years
I feel like giving you a warm hug and also pray your son will be delivered. He (Jesus) seeks the lost sheep 💜
Leave us 99 who are ok to seek the broken and the lost
God is so good 🌸
Read Codependent No More to
understand this attraction.🙏🏻✝️
♥️