Luke’s story
Finding joy in recovery
I remember the first day I walked into Teen Challenge SA – I felt lost and broken. The weight of my addiction was suffocating, and I had reached a point where I could no longer deny its grip on my life. For years, I had been caught in a cycle of substance abuse, using drugs to escape pain but only finding more despair. I felt hopeless, like a shadow of my former self, and I knew I needed help.
As I entered the centre, I was filled with anxiety. The people were friendly and calm, but I felt anything but calm. I was surrounded by strangers, all of us wrestling with our demons. My first few days were tough. I struggled with withdrawal and the realisation of what I had done to myself and my loved ones. I was afraid of the journey ahead and questioned whether I could truly change.
During my stay, I met a counsellor who spoke about faith and hope. She shared her own story of addiction and how she found Jesus during her recovery. At first, I was sceptical. I had always viewed religion as something distant, something for others, but her words stuck a chord in me. She spoke of Jesus as a source of strength, a friend who would walk alongside us in our struggles.
I decided to explore this and exercise my faith. One afternoon, I found myself in a small chapel at the centre. It was simple, with just a few chairs and a wooden cross at the front. I sat there alone, and for the first time in a long while, I began to pray. In those moments, I was so broken I didn’t even know how to do it or what to say, but I poured out my heart. I confessed my failures, regrets and fears. I asked for help, not just to overcome my addiction but also to find meaning in my life again.
Over the next few weeks, I started attending a Bible study group. As I read the Scriptures, I was moved by stories of redemption and grace. The story of the prodigal son resonated with me deeply. I saw myself in that young man, lost and wandering, but also in the embrace of a loving father who welcomed him home. It gave me hope that I could be forgiven and restored.
One evening, during a particularly emotional session, I decided to renew my covenant with my long-lost Lord Jesus. It felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I realised I didn’t have to fight this battle alone anymore. With Jesus by my side, I felt empowered to face my addiction and the underlying issues that fuelled it.
In the weeks that followed, I experienced a profound change. My cravings began to diminish, and I found peace in moments that used to trigger my desire to use. I discovered new coping mechanisms, healthier relationships, and a community that supported my journey. My faith became my anchor, grounding me in times of uncertainty.
Today, as I reflect on my time at Teen Challenge SA, I am grateful for that moment of surrender. Teen Challenge SA helped me to unmask deep-seated insecurities. Jesus transformed my life in ways I never thought were possible. I have found joy in recovery, purpose in service, and a deep sense of belonging. I continue to walk this path, knowing that my journey with Christ is only beginning.
Picture: Luke (middle) at his graduation service in October, with Teen Challenge SA staff intake manager Jesse (left) and case manager Will (right).