My journey from gambling addiction to freedom in Christ

From someone who used to spend 16 hours a day trading and gambling, hoping money would fill the void…

I hit rock bottom 6 months ago. Lost my savings, my girlfriend, and almost my sanity chasing the next big trade. The market had become my god – I was obsessed with charts, constantly checking my phone, unable to sleep. The anxiety was destroying me but I couldn’t stop.

One night, after a particularly devastating loss that left me in tears, I remembered my grandmother’s words: “When you don’t know what else to do, cry out to Jesus.” In desperation, I fell to my knees and prayed for the first time in years: “God, if you’re real, please help me. I can’t do this anymore.”

What happened next still amazes me. I felt this incredible peace wash over me. The compulsion that had gripped me for years just… lifted. I can’t explain it other than divine intervention.

The journey since then hasn’t been easy – I still get tempted. But God has been faithful. Through prayer, Bible study, and an amazing church community, I’m learning to find my worth in Christ rather than my bank account.

Today marks 6 months free from trading/gambling. My mind is clear, I sleep peacefully, and I’m rebuilding relationships. Most importantly, I have a relationship with Jesus that’s more valuable than any trade could ever be.

For anyone struggling with addiction – whether it’s gambling, substances, or anything else – there is hope. God can break those chains. He did it for me.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” – 2 Corinthians 5:17

What are your thoughts on addiction and faith? How do you think communities of faith can better support those battling addiction while showing grace and understanding rather than judgment?

I want to be transparent – this isn’t my personal story, but one I came across that really moved me and made me reflect on the transformative power of faith. I shared it because I believe many of us struggle with different forms of addiction or compulsive behaviors, and stories of hope and redemption like this one can inspire those who are suffering in silence.Let’s discuss this with compassion and respect for everyone’s journey. 🙏