One of the reasons I felt called to start this podcast was because of stories like Donovan and Lavonna Garrett’s. If you don’t believe God can make a difference in your marriage and family then you need to listen to the testimony of how Donovan’s alcohol abuse almost destroyed him, his marriage and his entire family. As I look at the photos of their beautiful family today, I’m in tears, knowing that if Donovan hadn’t surrendered his life to Christ, their story would have had a much different outcome. No, they aren’t perfect, as none of us are, but they have so much joy radiating from them because of what God has done. If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol, I promise this episode will encourage and give you hope.
Donovan is recognized throughout our community because he played the part of Jesus in our church’s Judgement House for several years. It’s amazing how God can take someone who was so out of control under the influence of alcohol and change his life to the point of using him as a vessel to reach others for Jesus in such a powerful way.
I hope this episode will encourage you, especially if you’re walking through your own seemingly hopeless situation. It’s Donovan and Lavonna’s desire to glorify God with their story, because they know He alone deserves the honor.
Highlights from this Episode
“Out of all the alcohol, all the drugs, everything I’ve ever put in my body, I’ve never had a feeling like I had that night. I know it was God. My life has never been the same since. It changed me from the inside out.” – Donovan
“When you sell out to God and you’re serious with God and you make Him Lord of your life, He will change your life. He changed my life.” – Donovan
“You all have been told probably for the last several years that you have a disease and poor you. I’m telling you that it’s not true. You have a choice. You have a choice every day.” – Lavonna quoting one of the counselors who was talking to the newest residents as she left Donovan at Home with a Heart. She smiled as she walked away thinking, “He’s in the right place.”
Scripture References
I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in Him. – Psalm 40: 1-3 (Donovan)
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11 (Lavonna)
Resources and Links
Donovan gives all the credit for his being set free from alcohol abuse to God, all those who prayed for him and to Home with a Heart. A Christian rehabilitation home-like environment dedicated to helping men get set free from the bondage of drug/alcohol abuse through Jesus Christ one day at a time.. They are located in Liberty, S.C.
Lavonna believes that if she hadn’t sought Christian advice from godly friends, she could have taken a very different path. If you don’t have Christian friends, seek help from a godly pastor or a Christian counselor. Focus on the Family has great Christian counselors available to talk to and who can connect you with a local counselor in your area.
Christian radio can also be a great source of comfort and encouragement, especially if you’re going through a difficult time. His Radio (89.3 in Greenville, S.C.) is a local station that can be streamed online from wherever you are.
Overcoming Alcoholism to Restore a Marriage Parts 1 & 2 with Donovan and Lavonna Garrett