Revelation 12:11 states that “they [believers in Jesus] overcame him [the devil] by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony” (NIV). Pablo Cambefort — a Panamanian man who was rescued by Jesus — shares his testimony. He now attends Paint International Church in Panama City, pastored by AGWM missionaries Nelson and Amy Lugo.

My life before Christ was extremely chaotic, unsuccessful, and dysfunctional. I felt very lonely, filled with sadness and fear.

By age 30, I had divorced twice, leaving a son and a daughter in broken homes. I was admitted to a mental institution after being diagnosed with chemical dependency from using alcohol and drugs.

I was angry for all I had done wrong, ashamed and guilty over the pain I caused. The identity I believed and the bad habits I had formed were enslaving. Sin gripped me.

When I was at the mental institution, I found a Bible and started reading it. Six months later, I returned home and was invited to a Christian surfers Bible study where I experienced the presence of God for the first time. I also met Pastor Chad Burgbacher — founder of Paint Church — and he invited me to attend a service.

In 2010, I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior at a Christian surfers retreat and started attending Paint. In the last decade of my membership at the church, my life has changed completely. The Lord has healed my wounds, given me a new identity in Christ, and delivered me from all the bad habits I formed.

I have experienced the grace of God in multiple ways, including opportunities to serve in the Christian surfer ministry, playing drums for church worship, and overseeing Paint’s finances. I have been married to my wife for three years and have a wonderful Christian family. I also serve with my wife in a recovery ministry, helping others find freedom from their hurts, hang-ups, and bad habits.

From the Mental Institution to the Church: Pablo’s Story of Transformation

By AGWM Communications