The Power of Testimony: Sharing My Journey of Redemption and Joy

Troy Husted

November 2, 2024

"so my word that comes from my mouth will not return to me empty, but it will accomplish what I please and will prosper in what I send it to do.” You will indeed go out with joy and be peacefully guided; ..." - Isaiah 55:11-12 CSB

In a world where individual stories often go untold, I believe it is essential to share our testimonies—not to boast about our accomplishments, but to testify to the transformative power of faith and the grace of God in our lives. Each of us has a unique journey, and my testimony serves as a reminder of what the Lord has done for me and can do for others.

I was once a misfit child, burdened by sins that I believed made me unworthy of God’s presence. For years, I found solace in alcohol, using it as a crutch to numb my feelings, pains, and insecurities. I thought I was in control, but in reality, I was spiraling down a path of self-destruction. It was only when I reached my breaking point that I realized I could no longer suppress my struggles through substances. It was time to lay my burdens before the Lord, and in doing so, I found liberation.

God took a child once filled with depression and despair and replaced that emptiness with a heart overflowing with joy. As it says in Psalm 30:11-12, “You turned my mourning into dancing; you took off my sackcloth and clothed me with joy.” No longer do I dwell on sadness; instead, I sing praises to the Lord, celebrating the grace that fills my heart. My testimony is a testament to the wisdom of God, who gently guided me away from the destructive choices I once thought were right. I had to relinquish my self-proclaimed authority over my life and recognize how easily I was influenced by the teachings of the society around me.

One of the most profound moments in my journey was when the Lord granted me a vision that revealed where my heart and eyes truly were. I experienced what felt like passing through the gates of Heaven, entering a timeless period at the beginning of civilization. In that moment, God showed me that I was so focused on the past and dwelling on the future that I was missing the present moments of life. Family, friends, fellowship, and worship were the least of what occupied my thoughts. Through His grace, He disciplined me to live in the moment, walking in His presence daily as He taught me the lessons of life.

I am no longer concerned about world events or the situations I face, as I now see the true glory of God and the greatest treasures in Heaven waiting for me—eternal peace! I realize that I am merely a foreigner in a foreign land, and my true kingdom is in Jesus.

I share my testimony with a heavy heart, recounting the tragedies of life, including the loss of my son, Braeden, my sister, Melinda, my mother at a very young age, and my grandparents. Through these painful experiences, the Lord soothed my heart and blessed me with a new son and daughter through my marriage to Judy. I gained sisters and a brother, adding to what was lost. God brought others into my life to mother me and share the lessons they had learned. Through friends, parents, grandparents, leaders, and multiple friendships, He filled the hurts of these losses with peace and strength.

This is my testimony to the wonders of God. My heart was cleansed and no longer filled with the anger of life. I recognize that through my accountability to God, I am called to follow the teachings of Jesus and break the curse of sin that stems from Adam and Eve. In my testimony, I rejoice in pursuing the tree of life and surrendering the serpent's lies that tempt me to feast on the knowledge of good and evil. Instead, I find that the lessons I learn in Jesus and by following His ways bring forth the fruits of everlasting joy.

As Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” I have learned to focus not on worldly events or the situations I face but to look Heavenward, welcoming the divine hand of God to lead and purify my way.

They conquered him completely through the blood of the Lamb and the powerful word of his testimony. They triumphed because they did not love and cling to their own lives, even when faced with death. - Revelation 12:11 TPT

I encourage you all to share your testimony and understand why it is important to shine the true glory and awesome grace of our Heavenly Father. Revelation 12:11 tells us, “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” Our stories can inspire others, offering hope and encouragement to those who may feel lost.

Let us not be silent about what the Lord has done in our lives. Sharing our testimonies creates a ripple effect of faith, reminding others of God’s goodness and mercy. May we all embrace the call to be witnesses of His love, lighting the way for others who seek the same joy and redemption. Together, let us proclaim His greatness and the transformative power of His grace.