When I received this book as part of a launch team, I wasn’t sure I wanted to read it. As someone who has never smoked, drank alcohol, or abused drugs, what could I learn from it that would enrich my life? I mean, I know the guy and he does get saved at some point and then all that before Christ stuff is forgiven. It is over and doesn’t matter because God has forgiven it. Right? So why read it?
I was regretting asking to be on the launch team. I had avoided reading the book up to the point that I needed to read it fast so I could meet a deadline. I’d agreed to write a review (what you are reading). So, I picked it up and started reading a story I fully expected to be predictable since I had read a mini version in one of Gallaty's earlier books, Growing Up.
Here’s the deal: I could not put it down. I read it in two evenings. Turns out, I had a lot to learn if I think I’m going to be able to minister to people who need Jesus to save them out of drugs and alcohol—any addiction. Many people have their lives turned upside down and side-ways by drugs and alcohol. My present struggle with my diet and weight loss is an everyday reminder that we all are susceptible to addictions that can wreck our life and health.
Robby’s story was very relatable since I live on the gulf coast. The locations are familiar and I’ve met some of the people who were mentioned. While that helped me stay focused, it was the story that was riveting. I know that Gallaty is a pastor right now and this story, not many years ago, makes the ending that I already know so improbable. How did it happen? Read for yourself.
I often tell people who are experiencing problems that our God is in the “putting people back together business.” He created us and when we mess up, He can fix it. Only God can fix it those problems out of the reach of money, technique, or talent. I have seen this true in my own life, in my family, and now in Robby Gallaty. I learned from reading this book. Pick it up and read it. Get it here
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