Amanda: For many years, I lived the life of a non-Christian and an addict. My addiction led me down a destructive path of crime, jail, and loss. I felt completely hopeless. At my lowest point, I went to jail seven months pregnant with my fifth child. My four older children had already been removed from my custody because of my addiction, and I thought I had lost everything.
Looking back, I see now that God had placed me in that jail for 90 days to protect my baby and keep her safe. While I was there, I heard the song The Motions by Matthew West. That song gave me hope—hope for a new beginning and a life with purpose.
From that moment on, I began to learn the true meaning of living for the Lord. My youngest daughter, the baby I carried while in jail, is now almost 16 years old, and today, we are both Christians. God has transformed my life. I have earned both an associate and a bachelor’s degree in human services. My older children, who were once taken from me, are back in my life, and we now have a wonderful relationship.
God has also given me the privilege of serving Him in many ways. Each summer, I work at Camp Cherith, a Christian camp in Frazee, Minnesota. I also volunteer with 98.5 KTIS. Over the years, Matthew West’s music has been a constant source of encouragement—reminding me not to give up, that my story isn’t over, and that God is still writing it. His songs have given me strength through tough times and helped keep me on the path God has for me.
In addition to my own children, God has blessed me with the opportunity to foster three children, who I now have custody of. Life is not always easy, but I know where my hope comes from, and I am grateful every day for God’s mercy and faithfulness.
Thank you, Matthew, for allowing God to use your music to inspire people like me. My life is living proof that God can redeem any story.
