Gambling Addiction ‣ Witness21

#80 My Double Life: Gambling Addict & Thief – Jeff Parker

on 2025-03-18

Summary

I grew up in a typical middle-class family without much church involvement. After my parents nearly divorced when I was around thirteen, I discovered the gospel through a youth group and committed my life to Christ. However, I slipped into a pattern of hiding sins—especially sexual sin and, later on, gambling. When I got married, I only partially confessed my past relationships to my wife, Stacy, thinking that was enough. I also pretended to have a strong Christian walk in small groups but secretly struggled with pornography and, eventually, online poker.
A trip to Las Vegas for my 30th birthday pushed me over the line, and I used my Christian media company’s credit card to fund my gambling. I managed to “pay it back” quietly, and in my pride and shame, I believed I could handle it on my own. Over the next few years, I siphoned larger amounts of money to support my habit, juggling credit card charges, day trading, and even paying personal bills with company funds. My double life was increasingly exhausting and filled with fear. Deep down, I knew I had to confess, but I kept hardening my heart—fearing man’s judgment more than God’s truth.

Time Chapters

01:20 Parents Nearly Divorce
04:10 Embracing the Gospel
07:25 Hidden Sexual Sin
09:52 Entering Marriage With Secrets
13:15 Joining Igniter Media
15:45 First Gambling Confession
18:10 Returning to Poker in Secret
23:40 Credit Card Theft in Vegas
29:15 Deeper Lies and Embezzlement
38:05 Convicted Yet Refusing Confession

—————– Source —————–

Jeff was the successful Vice President of a Christian media company. Their products were used in churches around the world every Sunday and the company was thriving. Yet Jeff was carrying a secret. A secret that no one in his church, small group, or work could know about, but that ultimately could destroy him. Would Jeff continue on his secret path of destruction, or would he confess and repent of his sin, before it was too late?

Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/jeff-parker-pt-1

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From Gambler to Pastor: How God moved Powerfully in my Life

Witness Testimonies

on 2025-02-10

Summary

Hi, I’m Pastor Steve Gesualdi. I share my journey from a destructive gambling lifestyle and crushing financial debt to the transformative moment when God’s message—echoed in a TV sermon about Abraham and Isaac—changed everything for me. In my darkest hour, overwhelmed by betrayal and despair, I got sober and dedicated my life to Jesus. That turning point led me to Bible school where I rediscovered a personal, vibrant relationship with Christ, and eventually paved my way to becoming a pastor at Good News Chapel in Montreal. Today, through teaching Bible studies, leading prayer sessions, and ministering to others, I witness God’s restoration every day. My story is a testament to the power of Christ to transform lives, proving that no matter how far you fall, His love can renew your purpose.

Time Chapters

01:30 Growing Up in Christian Home
03:20 Early Life, Faith Struggles
06:50 Culinary World Introduction
09:10 Turning Point, Crisis
12:40 Rediscovering God, Renewed Commitment
16:30 Breaking Addictive Habits
19:00 Starting Bible School
23:30 From Student to Pastor
29:30 Serving Others, Counseling
32:00 Favorite Bible Verses
34:40 Meeting My Wife
38:50 Encouraging Mental Health
40:10 Ending Prayer & Reflection

—————– Original Video —————–

WITNESS 009: STEVE GESUALDI At the peak of his culinary career and party lifestyle that came with it, Steve could not find lasting fulfillment. He knew he was called to higher service.

Raised in a Christian home, Stefano initially followed religious routines without a personal connection to God. As he grew older, he drifted from his roots, sinking into a lifestyle of chasing success in the culinary industry, drinking and gambling—only to find himself feeling empty and trapped. His breaking point came after a devastating loss at a casino, which left him deeply in debt and desperate.

In his darkest moment, Stefano fell to his knees in his hotel room and cried out to God, asking for help.That plea marked a turning point that reawakened his faith, leading him to eventually attend Bible college and embrace a new purpose.

Now Pastor of Good News Chapel in Montreal, Steve reflects on the journey that took him from the depths of despair to a life dedicated to Christ and helping others find salvation, hope, restoration and purpose in Him. His testimony resonates with anyone searching for meaning beyond success, struggling with personal battles, or longing to reconnect with God.

Steve’s story is a profound reminder that, no matter how far you’ve wandered, God’s love can restore and renew, giving life real direction and fulfillment. For those facing difficult challenges or seeking hope, Steve’s journey shows that with faith, anyone can find healing and a fresh start.

00:00 Introduction to the Interview
01:30 Growing Up in a Christian Household
03:20 Early Life and Struggles with Faith
06:50 Introduction to the Culinary World
09:10 Turning Point and Personal Crisis
12:40 Rediscovering God and Renewing Commitment
16:30 Challenges in Breaking Addictive Habits
19:00 Starting Bible School and Transformation
23:30 From Student to Pastor
29:30 Serving Others and Faith-Based Counseling
32:00 Favorite Bible Verses and Personal Inspiration
34:40 Meeting His Wife and Building a Life Together
38:50 Offering Encouragement for Mental Health and Faith Struggles
40:10 – Ending Prayer and Final Reflection

#savedbygrace #jesustestimony #jesusislife

I was a Thief & Addicted to Gambling, until JESUS Saved me… (Testimony)

Yeshua Testimonies

on 2025-01-23

Summary

Growing up, I was a thief and struggled with a severe gambling addiction starting at the age of 12. My life was filled with stealing and gambling, leading me down a dark path and even resulting in time spent in prison. Despite my attempts to change, I kept returning to my old habits. However, a powerful encounter with the Holy Spirit convinced me that my only way out was to give my life to Christ. After years of turmoil, Pastor Alec Andre helped me through prayer, leading to my deliverance from addiction. I now lead a ministry with my friend Tommy, sharing the love of Jesus and helping others find freedom through faith. I am grateful for the transformation God has brought into my life and my family’s lives, and I give all the glory to Jesus for His unwavering support and salvation.