In this powerful and heartfelt episode, host Alina welcomes long time friend Christian Winder to share his raw, inspiring journey from the depths of addiction to full redemption through faith in Jesus Christ.

Christian opens up about his childhood challenges, escalating alcohol and drug use in high school, mental health struggles, wilderness and boarding school experiences, rock bottom cycles of shame and despair in downtown Denver, and the life changing family intervention that led to surrender. At Harvest Farm, a faith based recovery program, he rebuilt his life through work, community, and a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ.

Key Scriptures Shared:

• Jeremiah 29:11 (NKJV): "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope."
• 1 John 4:4 (NKJV): "You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world."
• Genesis 2:18 (NKJV, on community): "And the LORD God said, 'It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.'"

Today, Christian thrives in Fort Collins with purpose: a rewarding job building wind turbine blades, fly fishing passion, 50 pound weight loss, fitness routine, and active church community, living proof that God restores, rebuilds, and offers new beginnings when we cooperate with Him.

If you're battling addiction, supporting a loved one, or needing a reminder that God still performs miracles, this episode is for you.

Key message: Fully surrender. There is hope. The Father waits with open arms, no judgment, only grace.

Timestamps

00:00 Message of Hope for Those Trapped in Addiction

01:06 Welcome and Podcast Introduction

04:00 Christian’s Childhood and Family Challenges

04:47 High School and Addiction Escalation

06:13 Wilderness, Boarding School and Trauma

11:44 Rock Bottom, Intervention and Surrender

13:11 Harvest Farm: Phases, Work and Spiritual Growth

15:46 Developing a Real Relationship with Christ

22:02 Taking Thoughts Captive and Finding Community

26:02 Embracing Hope, Authenticity and Daily Practices

26:46 Who Christian Is Becoming Today

27:28 Dreams: Leading Others to Christ

28:36 Current Life: Work, Fly Fishing, Fitness

29:51 Final Message to Those in Addiction

31:13 Advice to Younger Self and Families

32:42 The True Meaning of Surrender

33:33 "Double Winner" and Support for Families (Al-Anon)

37:37 Summing Up Life and Legacy

39:23 Closing Prayer for the Struggling

40:30 Dedication to Praying Mothers and Final Encouragement

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