Recovery Through Christ

In this episode of Recovery Through Christ, Pastor John Alworth breaks down one of the single greatest barriers to freedom and healing: denial. Grounded in scripture—including Lamentations 5:21 and John 8:32—Pastor Alworth explores how self-deception, rationalization, and external blaming keep individuals trapped in cycles of addiction, pride, anger, and emotional bondage. Drawing on both clinical insights and personal experience, Pastor Alworth outlines the four stages of denial (Unawareness, Resistance, Admission, and Acceptance) and emphasizes that true, lasting recovery begins with rigorous honesty before God and oneself. Whether dealing with substance abuse, trauma, or destructive habits, listeners are invited to step out of darkness and embrace the new identity and purpose God has designed for them. Key Topics & Highlights The Danger of Denial: Understanding denial as a defense mechanism and how rationalization, minimization, and blaming delay life-saving recovery. The 4 Stages of Denial: Unawareness $\rightarrow$ Resistance $\rightarrow$ Admission $\rightarrow$ Acceptance. Lies vs. Biblical Truth: Replacing the enemy’s lies ("This is just who I am") with the truth of God’s Word (2 Corinthians 5—becoming a new creation). The First Step to Restoration: Why surrendering powerlessness and embracing total honesty with God is essential for Christ-based recovery. Living Resurrection: Celebrating life transformation and baptismal testimonies from recovery ministries like the Open Door Mission. Key Contact & Broadcast Information Call / Text Host Directly: 832-475-8642 (For recovery guidance or legal consultation) Sponsor: The Allworth Law Firm Broadcast Schedule: Wednesdays at 5:30 PM Radio Station: KKHT Podcast On-Demand: KKHT.com

In this live episode broadcast on August 26, 2026, Pastor John Allworth dives into the second part of his series on breaking free from addiction, shame, and spiritual bondage. Addressing the heavy relapse statistics and psychological hurdles faced by those in recovery, Pastor Allworth exposes the top ten lies the enemy uses to keep people trapped—from "This is just who I am" to "I've gone too far for God to forgive me." By contrasting each lie with biblical truth, he delivers a message of hope, practical mindset shifts, and total restoration through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Key Contact Information & Event Details: Host: Pastor John Allworth Sponsoring Law Firm: Allworth Law Firm Radio Station / Podcast Archive: KKHT (Catch full podcasts at KKHT.com) Broadcast Schedule: Wednesdays at 5:30 PM Weekly Recovery Group Meeting Details: Event: Break Every Chain When: Thursdays at 7:00 PM (Includes free food, message, praise & worship, and fellowship) Where: New Covenant Church, 901 Wilson Road, Humble, Texas

Pastor and attorney Jon Alworth addresses the powerful deceptions that keep individuals trapped in addiction, guilt, and destructive behavior. Drawing from scripture and his personal testimony of freedom, Pastor Alworth breaks down common enemy lies—such as "I can't change," "I've gone too far," and "Nobody understands"—and contrasts them with the restorative truth of the Gospel. Discover how total surrender to Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit can break lifelong bondage, renew your identity, and bring true healing and purpose. Key Contact & Resource Information: Host: Pastor Jon Alworth Phone / Text: (832) 475-8642 (For free faith-based rehab assistance or legal support) Sponsor: The Alworth Law Firm Broadcast / Podcast Access: Airs Wednesdays at 5:30 PM. Catch full episodes and podcasts at KKHT.com.

In this episode of Recovery Through Christ, Pastor Jon Alworth exposes one of the enemy’s most effective tactics: using isolation to create vulnerability, shame, and relapse. Drawing from Ecclesiastes, the story of Elijah, and the vibrant fellowship of the early Church in Acts, Pastor Alworth breaks down the vital difference between refreshing solitude and dangerous isolation. Whether you are recovering from addiction, navigating grief, or feeling disconnected, this message offers a powerful reminder that Christianity was never meant to be lived alone. Discover how stepping out of the shadows into authentic, Christ-centered community provides the accountability, grace, and strength needed to break every chain and walk in God’s marvelous light. Need Help? If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, connect with Pastor Jon directly by texting 832-475-8642. Listen Live: Catch Recovery Through Christ every Wednesday at 5:30 PM on KKHT 100.7 FM, or stream on-demand at KKHT.com. Sponsored by the Allworth Law Firm.

In this episode of Recovery Through Christ, Pastor Jon Alworth explores how addiction often leads to isolation, fear, and avoiding life's mounting responsibilities—including financial and tax burdens. Joined by tax attorney and former IRS counsel Lance Stodghill, Pastor Jon shares his own journey of overcoming insurmountable tax debt during recovery. Together, they break down the deep parallels between addiction recovery and tackling debt: confronting pride, taking personal responsibility, and seeking help instead of sticking your head in the sand. Lance walks through the six concrete options for resolving back taxes—from installment agreements and Offers in Compromise to the "Fresh Start" program—and provides actionable steps and free resources (like VITA and Low-Income Taxpayer Clinics) to help you get back on track. Key Topics Covered: Isolation and Trauma: Understanding the roots of addiction and how it pulls us away from family, friends, and reality. Overcoming IRS Fear: Why hitting rock bottom financially might actually be the best time to settle tax issues. The 6 Ways to Handle Tax Debt: A breakdown of full payment, installment plans, Offers in Compromise, bankruptcy, currently not collectible status, and why the "ostrich method" never works. Rebuilding Your Life: Moving out of darkness, restoring relationships, and practical steps to regain financial and spiritual peace. Contact Information & Resources for Pastor Jon Alworth & Recovery Support Direct Cell / Helpline: (832) 475-8642 (Call for personal assistance with Christ-based addiction placement, prayer, or legal consultation with the Alworth Law Firm) Listen to Past Episodes:KKHT.com Broadcast Schedule: Wednesdays at 5:30 PM Guest: Lance Stodghill (Tax Attorney) Law Firm: Stodghill & Alley Website: SA Tax Law Free & Low-Cost Tax Resources Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) – South Texas College of Law: 1-800-646-1253 IRS Transcripts & Earnings History:IRS.gov Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): Search for a local VITA site at IRS.gov for free tax return preparation assistance.  

"Overcomers are not born; they are forged through surrender." In this powerful episode of Recovery Through Christ, Pastor Jon Alworth sits down for an intimate, eye-opening conversation with a man who has spent the last two years running the soundboards behind the scenes: his own show producer, Steven Kay. For decades, Steven lived a highly successful public life in Christian radio—while privately harboring a dark, heavy secret. Moving away from the label of "addict" and exposing the subtle traps of a "drug abuser," Steven opens up about: The Power of Choice: How the enemy uses subtle whispers and toxic relationships to lure us back into old, destructive patterns. The Trap of the Double Life: The exhausting reality of hiding behind hypocrisy and the shame that keeps so many from seeking help. The Difference Between Sobriety and Deliverance: How Steven transitioned from simply "choosing not to sin" to experiencing the true, supernatural peace of Christ that removes the desire altogether. Tune in to hear a raw, honest testimony of how God never stops chasing us down, proving that no matter how deep into the darkness we run, His grace is always fast enough to catch us. Need Prayer or Support? Email Steven: steven@SalemMediaHouston.com Text Pastor Jon: 832-475-8642 (Please text first) Catch the Podcast: Listen online at KKHT.com

"There is not one time that I didn't come out of that prison more blessed than I ever blessed them." — Pastor John Hammond What happens when true deliverance replaces the miserable struggle of "white-knuckling" your way through life? In this episode of Recovery Through Christ, Pastor John Alworth sits down with his close friend and ministry partner, Pastor John Hammond of Hope for All in Jesus Prison Ministry. Celebrating an incredible 44 years of taking the Gospel behind bars, Pastor Hammond shares jaw-dropping testimonies of how God is moving in Texas prisons. From a former Satanist finding radical joy in Christ to church attendance skyrocketing from 70 to over 230 incarcerated men in a single room, a powerful spiritual revival is underway. The two pastors dive deep into the real-world impact of faith-based rehabilitation. They discuss how a genuine relationship with Jesus completely transforms a person's community, lowering the historical 90% recidivism rate down to 43% by giving former inmates a built-in family of believers. Whether you are looking to break your own chains of addiction, seeking a Christian approach to legal counsel, or feeling called to volunteer your time to step into the darkness and bring others into His marvelous light—this episode is an urgent reminder that true abundance is found in Kingdom work. To get involved, visit hopeforallinjesus.org or text Pastor Alworth directly for free, Christ-based rehab placement resources. Missed a portion of this live broadcast? Catch the full podcast archive anytime at KKHT.com.

"Every one of these principles in the Twelve Steps you can trace... to biblical scripture." — Pastor John Alworth Almost everyone is dealing with a recovery of some sort, whether it is from addiction, pain, depression, or the heavy cycle of shame and guilt. In this live broadcast of Recovery Through Christ, Pastor John Alworth breaks down how the principles of traditional 12-step recovery programs—such as AA, NA, and Celebrate Recovery—are actually deeply rooted in the Holy Bible. Pastor Alworth walks listeners through the 12 key Christian principles that mirror a faithful walk with Jesus: honesty, hope, faith, courage, integrity, willingness, humility, love, discipline, patience, awareness, and service. He directly compares traditional 12-step wording with a Christ-centered perspective, demonstrating how real, lasting deliverance from the bondage of sin and addiction is only unlocked when you crown Jesus Christ as the Lord of your life. Tune in to discover how the truth of Scripture can break the chains of denial, restore broken family relationships, and lead you out of the darkness and into His marvelous light. If you missed any part of this broadcast, you can catch the full podcast at KKHT.com. Join us again next week for an incredible lineup of special guests, including a powerful personal testimony and an interview with Pastor John Hammond of Hope for All in Jesus Prison Ministry!

In this episode of Recovery Through Christ, host Pastor John Alworth welcomes Joe Menslage, the publisher of Katy Christian Magazine and Houston Latino Family Magazine, for an inspiring conversation on the power of faith-based media, the modern landscape of truth, and the necessity of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ to break the bonds of addiction. Key Highlights From the Episode: Truth in a World of "Fake News": Pastor John and Joe discuss the 21-year history of Katy Christian Magazine and its mission to provide an uplifting, unifying alternative to mainstream media propaganda. The Blueprint for True Recovery: Pastor John contrasts standard 28-day treatment cycles with Christ-centered recovery. They dive into why treating the spiritual root cause—rather than just the symptoms—is the only way to find lasting freedom from addiction. Practicing with Christian Principles: Pastor John shares a look inside his individualized personal injury practice, the Alworth Law Firm, highlighting how prioritizing client needs over profit reflects his faith. Planting Seeds for the Kingdom: The two reflect on how sharing the Gospel through media, family, and personal interactions acts as a vital tool for planting seeds that can transform lives decades down the road. Need Help or Legal Guidance? If you or a loved one is battling addiction, or if you need a personal injury attorney who operates under Christian principles, text Pastor John Alworth directly at 832-475-8642. Free, faith-based recovery resources are available. Connect Online: Visit KatyChristianMagazine.com or HoustonLatinoFamilyMagazine.com to read the recent articles on Pastor John's ministry, Break Every Chain, and the Open Door Mission.

In this episode of Recovery Through Christ, Pastor John Alworth shares how a personal relationship with Jesus is the ultimate foundation for healing, restoration, and breaking free from the cycles of addiction and shame. Reflecting on his own story of deliverance and living resurrection, Pastor Alworth explains how God consistently places supernatural interventions, people, and circumstances in our paths to get our attention—even when we aren't looking. The discussion moves into what scripture reveals about supernatural events as the end times approach, offering a warning against growing global deceptions, fake news, and counterfeit miracles. Pastor Alworth emphasizes the vital role of the Holy Spirit in developing spiritual vision and discernment, reminding believers to test everything against the Word of God. Finally, the program breaks down 14 everyday, ordinary occurrences—from unexplained peace during a crisis to sudden prayer promptings and the gift of encouragement—that are actually powerful, overlooked signs of God's supernatural hand working in our daily lives. Key Scriptures Highlighted in This Episode Lamentations 5:21 — “Turn us back to you, oh Lord, and we will be restored.” Luke 15 — The parables of the lost sheep and the prodigal son. Matthew 24 & 1 Thessalonians 2:9 — Warnings regarding deception, counterfeit signs, and the end times. Acts 2:17 & Joel 2:28 — The pouring out of God's Spirit in the last days. Need Help? If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, connect with Pastor John directly by texting 832-475-8642. Listen Live: Catch Recovery Through Christ every Wednesday at 5:30 PM on KKHT 100.7 FM, or stream on-demand at KKHT.com. Sponsored by the Allworth Law Firm.

"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." — Ephesians 2:10 Most people spend their entire lives waiting for a booming voice from heaven, a dramatic Damascus Road encounter, or a spectacular, earth-shaking miracle to prove God is real. But what if God is trying to get your attention right now through the ordinary, chaotic, or even painful circumstances of your life? In this incredibly transparent episode of Recovery Through Christ, Pastor John Alworth shares what it looks like to tune your spiritual vision to recognize supernatural opportunities. Reflecting on his own past, Pastor John opens up about hitting rock bottom: battling severe health issues, drowning in debt to the IRS, facing isolation, and losing his family. Yet, it was precisely in that cornered moment that God supernaturally intervened through a single, unexpected phone call that changed the trajectory of his life forever. Highlights From This Episode: The Living Miracle of Transformation: Why a person walking off the streets, surrendering a decade-long addiction, and gaining a clear mind is the greatest modern-day miracle you will ever see. The Holy Spirit Nudge: Understanding our role as Christ's ambassadors and co-workers (2 Corinthians 5-6), and how the gift of the Holy Spirit actively guides us through ordinary choices. Problems vs. Opportunities: How a massive giant like Goliath looked like a death sentence to an army, but a supernatural promotion to a shepherd boy named David. God’s Multi-Faceted Healing: A powerful look at the different ways God answers prayer—whether through instant divine deliverance, the miracle of medical science, or ultimate eternal healing. Your current struggle—whether it’s addiction, a fractured marriage, or a financial storm—is not an accident. God hasn't abandoned you; He is inviting you to step onto the water. Stop looking for the spectacular and start looking for the supernatural in your everyday routine. Catch the Broadcast: Join us for Recovery Through Christ with Pastor John Alworth every Wednesday at 5:30 PM on KKHT 100.7 FM, or listen to the podcast on-demand anytime at KKHT.com. Sponsored by the Allworth Law Firm.

"Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.'" — John 14:6 In secular circles, anyone starting recovery is given a foundational piece of advice: you have to change your people, places, and things. But how do you actually do that when the temptations of the world are waiting on every street corner? In this episode of Recovery Through Christ, Pastor John Alworth calls in from home to share a powerful truth: true, faith-based recovery isn't just about behavior modification—it perfectly mirrors our daily walk with Christ. Long before believers were ever called "Christians," the early church in the Book of Acts was simply known as The Way. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The Shortcut Fallacy: Why the enemy offers artificial peace and instant gratification that ultimately leads to slavery (John 8:34), while Christ leads us on a life-giving journey. Why "Trying Harder" Fails: The biological and spiritual reasons why willpower alone isn't enough to rewire the brain, and why Jesus asks us to abide, not just white-knuckle our way through. Overcoming the Stumble: A compassionate look at slips and relapses. If a child stumbles while learning to walk, a loving parent lifts them back up—and God does the exact same for you. The Power of the Pack: Why isolation is the enemy's greatest weapon, and how finding a Bible-based recovery community acts as a "hospital for the wounded." Whether your struggle is with alcohol, drugs, pride, or trauma, you do not have to walk this narrow path alone. Turn your back on the wide road to destruction, embrace the ultimate victory of total surrender, and let God order your steps toward a brand-new identity. Catch the Broadcast: Tune in to Recovery Through Christ with Pastor John Alworth every Wednesday at 5:30 PM on KKHT 100.7 FM, or stream the podcast anytime on KKHT.com. Sponsored by the Allworth Law Firm.

"Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil." — Ephesians 6:11 Whether you are in the deep throes of addiction, standing on the edge of a slippery slope, or fighting to prevent a relapse, recovery is never just a physical challenge—it is a spiritual battle. The enemy behaves like a roaring lion, using isolation, shame, and self-deception to keep us trapped in darkness. But God has not left us defenseless. In this powerful live broadcast, Pastor John Alworth breaks down Ephesians 6 to give you a highly practical, step-by-step field manual for recovery. Drawing from his own journey and his work with Break Every Chain ministries, Pastor John translates the ancient Roman armor into daily, real-world tools for modern victory: The Belt of Truth: Breaking denial and being ruthlessly honest with your family, sponsors, and yourself. The Breastplate of Righteousness: Guarding your heart against the toxic lies of shame, guilt, and worthlessness. Feet Shod with the Gospel of Peace: Swapping the chaos of addiction for rock-solid daily routines, healthy friendships, and making amends. The Shield of Faith & Helmet of Salvation: Deflecting cravings and capturing destructive thoughts before they take root in your mind. The Sword of the Spirit: Actively deploying the Word of God to slash through the enemy's traps. Sobriety isn’t merely about white-knuckling your way past a substance; it’s about replacing destructive habits with righteous ones and filling your life with things that strengthen the soul. Tune in to discover how you can stop running from your failures and start running to a Savior who offers absolute freedom. Because whom the Son sets free, is free indeed! Need Help? If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, connect with Pastor John directly by texting 832-475-8642. Listen Live: Catch Recovery Through Christ every Wednesday at 5:30 PM on KKHT 100.7 FM, or stream on-demand at KKHT.com. Sponsored by the Allworth Law Firm.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. — John 10:10 Are you or a loved one feeling trapped in a cycle of addiction, shame, or destructive behavior? The enemy wants you to believe that substances offer freedom, but they only deliver chains. In this powerful episode, Pastor John Alworth returns live to share his deeply personal journey of celebrating 67 years of life and over 13 years of true, Christ-centered sobriety. Reflecting on a family history marked by addiction, Pastor John stands as a living testament to the miracle of God’s grace. He breaks down the practical and biblical reality of what happens when you step out of the darkness and into the light. Sobriety isn’t about what you give up—it's about what you gain: peace, clarity, restored relationships, dignity, and a deeper walk with Jesus Christ. Contrast the heavy burdens of the flesh with the freeing fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5), and discover why lasting freedom only comes when we love God more than our vices. No matter how many times you’ve fallen or how heavy your chains feel, your past does not disqualify you. Tune in to discover the undeniable joy of a clear mind, a clean heart, and a Savior who is still in the miracle business. Listen Live: Join us every Wednesday at 5:30 PM on KKHT or catch up on demand right here. For more information, visit KKHT.com. Sponsored by the Allworth Law Firm.

Why do over 80% of individuals who go through secular 28-day recovery programs relapse within the first year? In the conclusion of this foundational two-part series on Recovery Through Christ, Pastor John Alworth addresses the critical missing link in lasting transformation: a dedicated relationship with Jesus Christ. Broadcasting live to Southeast Texas in 2026, Pastor Alworth breaks down Steps 5 through 12, mapping the traditional recovery timeline directly back to its original scriptural origins. This episode tackles the massive spiritual hurdles that keep people trapped in cycles of addiction, anxiety, and depression—specifically the heavy chains of unforgiveness and shame. Pastor Alworth shares the immense power of reciprocal forgiveness, the necessity of forgiving yourself, and how real healing occurs when we replace the generic "higher power" with the living Trinity. By examining the book of James and the book of Romans as practical recovery manuals, this broadcast highlights how to renew your mind against the noise of modern culture, step into your calling as an ambassador for Christ, and carry the message of true freedom to a world in bondage. To receive a digital copy of the ministry's "Christ-Based 12 Steps" or the "Scriptural Basis for the 12 Steps," text your email address to Pastor Alworth at 832-475-8642. Full episode archives are available at KKHT.com.

Are you trapped in a cycle of shame, anxiety, or addiction, wondering how to truly break free? In this special pre-recorded episode of Recovery Through Christ, Pastor John Alworth kicks off a powerful two-part series focusing on deliverance, authenticity, and the spiritual roots of healing. Pastor Alworth strips away the modern, secularized phrasing of traditional 12-step programs to reveal what they truly are: a mirror of the Christian walk entirely built on biblical principles. Diving into Steps 1 through 4, Pastor Alworth explains why substituting a vague "higher power" with the true authority of the Trinity—God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit—is the only way to genuinely rewire the brain and break generational curses. He shares candidly about the "baloney salami" lies the enemy whispers to keep us in bondage, his own joy in living a sober life, and how to conduct a fearless moral inventory rooted in Scripture rather than condemnation. Whether you are battling a substance or wrestling with the subtle bondages of pride and unforgiveness, this episode offers a practical, grace-filled roadmap to help you step out of the darkness and into marvelous light. If you or a loved one are seeking placement in a free, faith-based recovery program, Pastor Alworth invites you to text your name and need to 832-475-8642. For full episode archives, visit KKHT.com.

Are you feeling spiritually stagnant, overwhelmed by anger, or trapped in the cycle of addiction? In this episode of Recovery Through Christ, Pastor John Alworth shares a message that has the empirical, scientific backing to change your life from the inside out. Broadcasting live from the KKHD Studios, Pastor Alworth unpacks the groundbreaking data from a massive 40,000-person Life Way Research study, revealing the stunning, real-world impact of engaging with the Bible at least four days a week. From dropping alcoholism rates by a staggering 57% to plummeting feelings of loneliness and anxiety, the data proves what Scripture has always promised: God's Word is a living, breathing blueprint for transformation. Pastor Alworth dives deep into the miraculous unity of the Bible—a text penned by over 40 distinct authors across three continents and 1,500 years, yet woven together into one flawless, divine message. He also teases jaw-dropping biblical insights that predated modern scientific discoveries by millennia, including the weight of air, ocean currents, and the shape of the earth. Whether your heart feels like stone or you are simply looking for a lamp to guide your next step in a confusing world, this episode provides practical, small steps to build your life on an unbreakable rock. Recovery Through Christ airs weekly on KKHT. Connect with the ministry online or catch the full podcast archive at KKHT.com.

In this powerful episode of Recovery Through Christ, Pastor John Alworth from the KKHT Studios delivers an urgent, "right now" message for anyone struggling with addiction, shame, or the heavy burdens of a fallen world. Reflecting on a prophetic 1965 broadcast by Paul Harvey and the rapid shift in modern culture, Pastor Alworth exposes how easily we can wander into isolation and destructive behavior. Drawing from his own profound story of breaking a multi-generational cycle of alcoholism at age 53, he extends a lifeline of hope, reminding listeners that it is never too late for a "living resurrection." Whether you are battling the global pandemic of substance abuse—from fentanyl to alcohol—or fighting internal wars with pride and anxiety, this episode maps out a clear path to true healing. Tune in to discover your identity as God’s unique masterpiece, learn what it practically means to be a "co-worker with Christ," and find the free resources available to help you or a loved one step out of the darkness and into marvelous light. If you or a loved one are seeking help with addiction, Pastor Alworth invites you to text or call 832-475-8642 to connect with a free, Christ-centered recovery placement.

In this live broadcast from April 8th, Pastor John Alworth shifts the focus of recovery from mere abstinence to the necessity of a personal relationship with the Creator. Drawing a parallel to "Gallery Furniture's" famous slogan, Alworth emphasizes that God’s plan for healing is "free, free, free," provided one is willing to engage in a reciprocal bond of love. The episode outlines the dynamics of the man-God relationship through several key perspectives: God’s Initiating Love: Alworth explains that God’s love is "initiating" and "sacrificial." Using the imagery of the Garden of Eden, he notes that when humanity hid in sin, it was God who came looking for them, asking, "Where are you?" He highlights that Christ’s sacrifice on the cross occurred while we were still sinners, proving that God loves individuals into transformation rather than waiting for them to clean themselves up first. The Two-Way Street of Love: A healthy relationship cannot be one-sided. Alworth challenges listeners to move beyond "knocking" and actually open the door to Christ (Revelation 3:20). He defines loving God back through obedience—not as a rigid set of rules, but as a path to clearing the "chaos" of a sinful lifestyle—and through trusting His plan over personal preferences. The Biological Benefit of Worship: Alworth introduces the concept of neuroplasticity, specifically how worship affects the brain. He explains that acts of devotion and creative praise cause "dendrites" (the connectors between neurons) to flower and bloom. Remarkably, the area of the brain most improved by this spiritual practice is the center for empathy, which directly impacts the second greatest commandment: loving your neighbor. Recovery as Reconciliation: Whether recovering from addiction, pride, or a "divided society," the solution remains the same: reconciliation. Alworth reminds listeners that unforgiveness is a "ball and chain" that only weighs down the person holding the grudge. By forgiving oneself and others, the "bridge" broken in Eden is restored. The program concludes with an invitation to move past "religion" (a man-made construct) and embrace "relationship"—the intimacy of crying "Abba, Father" to a God who is ready to pick His children up every time they stumble. Key Scriptural References Romans 5:8Christ dying for us while we were yet sinners. John 5:6The fundamental question of recovery: "Do you want to be healed?" Revelation 3:20The invitation to open the door and "sup" (socialize) with God. 1 John 4:19We love because He first loved us. Psalm 139Being fearfully and wonderfully made with an individual purpose. Reflection Question Pastor Alworth mentioned that we often try to "clean ourselves up" before coming to God. Is there an area of your life you've been trying to "fix" on your own before inviting Him into the process?

In this special Holy Week edition of Recovery Through Christ, Pastor John Alworth is joined by Pastor Boyd Harrell, founder of COOL Ministries (Christ Over Our Lives). The episode focuses on the critical mission of prison ministry and the belief that incarcerated individuals possess immense potential to become "powerful warriors in the Kingdom of God" once delivered from the bondage of sin and addiction. The conversation covers several key themes regarding restoration and reentry: The Case for Prison Ministry: Pastor Alworth addresses the stigma surrounding incarcerated individuals, reminding listeners that Jesus himself extended grace to the thief on the cross. He highlights the practical benefits to society, noting that Christ-based intervention can drop recidivism rates from 80% to 40%. Pastor Boyd’s Testimony: Pastor Harrell shares his "buck wild" journey from shooting drugs at age 13 to facing 25 years to life during his fourth trip to prison. He describes a radical encounter with God in a Houston jail cell in 1993, which led to a five-year period of deep scriptural study and nearly three decades of freedom and ministry. The "COOL" Approach to Reentry: With 27 years in ministry, Pastor Harrell explains how his organization serves 20 prison units through church services and his book, Breaking the Chains. The program uses a 12-step framework rooted in biblical discipleship to help men and women navigate the "scarlet letter" of a criminal record and find a supportive "family of God." The Science of Praise: The pastors discuss neuroplasticity, noting that worship and gratitude aren't just spiritual exercises but biological ones that heal the brain, combat depression, and increase empathy. The episode serves as a call to action for volunteers and donors to support reentry efforts, emphasizing that while the world may see a "convict," God sees a "masterpiece" ready for a living resurrection. Key Scriptural References Luke 19:10Jesus came to "seek and save the lost." 2 Corinthians 5:20Believers as "Christ’s ambassadors" on earth. Psalm 107:14God bringing people out of darkness and breaking their chains. James 5:16The healing power of confession and community. Ministry Contact Information COOL Ministries:www.coolministries.net | Phone: 281-687-8366 Recovery Through Christ:Phone/Text: 832-475-8642

In this episode of Recovery Through Christ, Pastor Jon Alworth explores the theme of spiritual and emotional freedom, emphasizing that "not all chains are visible." While many associate bondage strictly with substance abuse, Alworth broadens the definition to include shame, anger, fear, past trauma, and the "bondage of lies" that keep individuals from their full potential. The message focuses on three primary keys to restoration: The Power of Surrender over Willpower: Pastor Alworth argues that true freedom is not achieved through human grit or "trying harder," but is received by surrendering to Jesus Christ and accepting the guidance of the Holy Spirit. He describes the Holy Spirit as the "helper" who provides the discernment and strength necessary to navigate a modern world filled with ungodly distractions. The Science of Worship: Drawing on the concept of neuroplasticity, Pastor Alworth explains how sinful patterns and addiction physically affect the brain's dendrites. He notes that scientific testing suggests creative activities and, most significantly, worshiping God can help the brain "flower" and heal, restoring a sound mind and the capacity for empathy. Living Out the Freedom: Freedom is a daily walk, not a one-time event. Pastor Alworth encourages listeners to "stay tethered" to Christ by joining community groups, volunteering, and replacing isolation with the light of fellowship. He highlights that while the enemy (Satan) uses deception to convince people they are beyond saving, the truth found in the Bible proves that God uses imperfect, "broken" people—like Paul, Moses, and David—for His greatest works. The program concludes with a powerful reminder of God’s restorative power, with Pastor Jon Alworth sharing his own testimony of being set free at age 53 and having his health, marriage, and career restored through his relationship with Christ. Key Scriptural References Luke 4:18-19Christ’s mission to heal the brokenhearted and set captives free. John 8:32-36Knowing the truth to be "free indeed." 2 Timothy 1:7Trading the spirit of fear for power, love, and a sound mind. Galatians 5:1The call to stand firm in the freedom Christ has provided. James 5:16The importance of confession and community in the healing process.

In this episode, Pastor Jon Alworth explores the spiritual foundations of overcoming addiction and destructive cycles. Moving beyond simple behavior modification, Pastor Alworth argues that addiction is a "worship disorder" — a misplaced appetite where individuals attempt to fill a spiritual hunger with temporary substances or behaviors that ultimately "leak" and fail to satisfy. The program synthesizes three core pillars for a successful life in recovery: A Biblical Approach to Avoiding Relapse: Pastor Alworth emphasizes starving the flesh and feeding the spirit. He details the cycle of addiction—trigger, thought, fantasy, justification, and action — and explains that victory starts before the action is taken by "turning on the light" of Christ to dispel darkness. Replacing Desire with Hunger for God: Drawing on the imagery of "broken cisterns" from the Book of Jeremiah, he explains that recovery requires replacing harmful cravings with a hunger for God's "living water," which provides permanent peace rather than temporary escape. Understanding Your Purpose: The program concludes by defining the believer's identity as an "Ambassador for Christ" and a "Masterpiece" created for good works. Pastor Alworth encourages listeners to discover their unique spiritual gifts — such as mercy, hospitality, or leadership — to serve others and find true fulfillment. The message is one of radical hope, reminding all of us that regardless of past relapses or current struggles, we are "new creations" in Christ and that God’s mercies are renewed every morning. Key Scriptural References Lamentations 5:21The promise of restoration and turning back to God. John 10:10The contrast between the enemy (destruction) and Christ (abundant life). Galatians 5:16Walking by the Spirit to overcome the desires of the flesh. Romans 12:2Transformation through the renewing of the mind. Ephesians 2:10Believers as God’s craftsmanship/masterpiece.

HOST: Pastor Jon Alworth

HOST: Pastor Jon Alworth

HOST: Pastor Jon Alworth

HOST: Pastor Jon Alworth GUEST: Pastor John Hammond Hope for All in Jesus Prison Outreach https://hopeforallinjesus.org/

HOST: Pastor Jon Alworth

HOST: Pastor Jon Alworth

HOST: Pastor Jon Alworth

HOST: Pastor Jon Alworth

HOST: Pastor Jon Alworth

HOST: Pastor Jon Alworth GUESTS: Brandon Thomas & Fred Irman Open Door Mission www.OpenDoorHouston.org

HOST: Pastor Jon Alworth

HOST: Pastor Jon Alworth

HOST: Pastor Jon Alworth

HOST: Pastor Jon Alworth

GUESTS: Michael & Desiree Vecchio Project Hope www.ProjectHopeRC.com Saving Grace www.SavingGraceWH.com

GUESTS: Pastor Ronald Taylor & Pastor Robert Daniels www.menwithavision.com