James Hensley's Story "417 Testimonies of Jesus Christ" Episode 10 With Host Preston & Dennis

James Hensley shares his personal testimony of overcoming a 20 to 25-year struggle with addiction and prison time to find faith and purpose on Episode 10 of "417 Testimonies of Jesus Christ", hosted by Preston Cameron and Dennis Everson.Introduction & Opening Prayer[00:06 Opens in a new window ] Hosts Preston Cameron and Dennis Everson introduce the show and guest James Hensley, who opens the episode in prayer.Early Life & Family Background[02:15 Opens in a new window ] James discusses growing up in Ozark, Missouri, and describes his childhood up until his parents separated when he was around 5 years old due to his father's alcoholism.[05:45 Opens in a new window ] Reconnecting with his father at age 16 and later after getting out of prison, finding that his father had stopped drinking due to health reasons.[07:06 Opens in a new window ] Reflecting on surrounding oneself with the right influences and removing bad influences from life.Addiction & Incarceration[09:11 Opens in a new window ] James details how his drug addiction to methamphetamine began around age 15 or 16 and lasted over two decades, resulting in spending nearly 20 years in the Missouri prison system for various offenses to support his habit.[11:33 Opens in a new window ] Discussing the consequences of actions and referencing Galatians 6:7-10.[15:23 Opens in a new window ] Detailing childhood trauma and physical abuse following his mother's remarriage, and how church provided a safe haven during those years.Mental Health Struggles & The Turning Point[22:22 Opens in a new window ] Relating his mental health breakdown, hospitalizations, self-harm, and suicide attempts after leaving his stepfather's home, which coincided with starting hard drug use to seek acceptance.[28:40 Opens in a new window ] Discussing conviction, the process of sanctification, and how his mother sent him a Bible every time he was incarcerated.[33:00 Opens in a new window ] Recounting a pivotal experience at around age 40 in the Stone County jail in Galena, Missouri, where a visiting pastor prayed over the inmates and James experienced a profound encounter with the Holy Spirit.[35:00 Opens in a new window ] Reading Deuteronomy 8:2-3 regarding God's guidance through 40 years in the wilderness and seeing it mirror his own life.Recovery, Relapse, and Adult Teen Challenge[40:46 Opens in a new window ] Seeking recovery through the Adult Teen Challenge program at Hope Homes of the Ozarks.[41:37 Opens in a new window ] Leaving the program early during his first attempt to assist his son, subsequently relapsing during the COVID-19 pandemic due to isolation and lack of fellowship.[43:58 Opens in a new window ] Returning to Hope Homes of the Ozarks for a second time, completing the program, and serving as a house leader.Life Today & Current Ministry[44:52 Opens in a new window ] Working as an inventory foreman for a company that hires individuals with criminal records and recovery backgrounds, using his position to mentor and pour into others.[47:45 Opens in a new window ] Involvement in Pastoral Relief Ministries, giving him opportunities to preach at local churches and support long-term pastors.[49:00 Opens in a new window ] Attending both Freedom City Church and Selmore Christian Church, finding balance between traditional and modern worship.[51:58 Opens in a new window ] Practicing "loose discipleship" by remaining available to support others coming out of addiction and prison.Closing[56:07 Opens in a new window ] Final reflections on God's ongoing work and faithfulness, followed by a closing prayer.