Introduction
I had the pleasure of interviewing Chris Philen about his miracle life story. Chris and I work together on a business called Target Walleye, where he sells advertising space. However, what truly sets Chris apart is his journey of redemption and transformation. From a life filled with addiction and despair to finding hope and purpose, Chris’s story is one that will resonate with many. Chris Philen shares his experiences and the pivotal moments that led him to a life of faith and miracles.
A Normal Upbringing
Chris begins by describing his upbringing, which he considers to be quite normal. He grew up in a loving family that introduced him to God and instilled strong values in him. Chris excelled in school and sports, even dreaming of playing professional baseball someday. However, as he entered high school and his twenties, he found himself drawn to the party scene and began drinking with his friends. Although he got into some trouble, it didn’t have a significant impact on his life at that time.
Marriage and Loss
Chris’s life took a turn when he got married and started a family. He was initially happy, with four children, a home, and a successful career. However, his drinking habits began to escalate, and he started losing everything that mattered to him. By the time he turned 40, his wife and children had left, they lost their house, and he lost his job. Chris found himself homeless, feeling godless and unloved. His most cherished relationship was with alcohol, which had become his escape from reality.
A Calling to Change
One day, Chris felt a calling to check his email, something he hadn’t done in a year and a half. He walked across town to a public computer and discovered an email from his father. His father had attended a church event where he heard stories similar to Chris’s and recommended that he consider seeking help from Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge. His father emphasized that Jesus was the only one who could save him. Initially skeptical, Chris decided to give it a try.
A Journey of Redemption: Miracle Life Story
Chris walked through the doors of Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge, unsure of what to expect. He contemplated leaving but decided to stick it out. On the second day, he found himself on his knees, crying out to God, acknowledging the mess he had made of his life. He made a commitment to stay in the program for the entire 13 months if God would help him fix his life. Chris not only completed the program but graduated with honors.
Finding Purpose and a New Career
After completing the program, Chris decided to stay in the Brainerd Lakes area. He met incredible people who supported him on his journey of recovery. Through one of these connections, he found a new career opportunity that allowed him to make a significant income. Although he initially found success, Chris realized that he was losing sight of God and prioritizing his own desires over God’s will. He felt a lack of joy and fulfillment in his life and knew that something needed to change.
Answering the Call
Chris reached a point where he couldn’t ignore the longing in his heart for something more meaningful. He made the decision to leave his lucrative job, trusting that God would open a new door for him. And just as he had hoped, a week later, Jim Kalkofen, one of the original owners of Target Walleye, reached out to Chris and asked for his help with the digital magazine. Chris gladly accepted the opportunity, even though it wasn’t a full-time position and didn’t pay much. He enjoyed being part of the industry and saw it as a chance to make a difference.
A New Chapter
As time went on, Chris’s role at Target Walleye expanded, and he was offered a full-time position as the director of sales and marketing. With the guidance of prayer and a sense of blessing, Chris accepted the role. He felt grateful for the opportunity to work in a field he enjoyed and to be surrounded by supportive colleagues.
Overcoming Adversity
Just when things seemed to be going well, Chris faced another significant challenge. In December, he was diagnosed with throat cancer. The news was devastating, but Chris quickly reminded himself of the miracles God had already performed in his life. He reached out to his friends, family, and prayer warriors, and together, they rallied around him in prayer.
A Miraculous Recovery
Four months later, Chris received the incredible news that he was cancer-free. He attributes his recovery to the power of prayer and the faith he has in God’s ability to perform miracles. Chris’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the importance of relying on God in times of adversity.
Conclusion
Chris Philen story is one of redemption, hope, and the unwavering love of God. From a life filled with addiction and despair, Chris found his way back to faith and experienced miraculous transformations. His journey serves as a reminder that no matter how lost we may feel, God is always there, ready to guide us towards a better path.
Chris’s story also highlights the importance of seeking help and support when facing challenges. Through the Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge program, Chris found the strength to overcome his addiction and rebuild his life. He surrounded himself with a community of people who believed in him and offered their prayers and encouragement.
Furthermore, Chris’s decision to prioritize his relationship with God over worldly success is a powerful lesson. Despite having a lucrative career, he realized that true joy and fulfillment come from aligning our lives with God’s will. By answering the call to work with Target Walleye, Chris found a sense of purpose and fulfillment that he had been missing.
Lastly, Chris’s battle with throat cancer serves as a testament to the power of faith and prayer. Despite the initial shock of the diagnosis, Chris remained steadfast in his belief that God could perform miracles. Through the support of his loved ones and the power of prayer, he emerged victorious, cancer-free.
Chris Philen’s story is a reminder that no matter how dire our circumstances may seem, there is always hope for redemption and transformation. By opening our hearts to God’s love and guidance, we can experience miracles in our own lives. As we embark on our own journeys, may we find inspiration in Chris’s story and remember that God is always standing at the door, ready to lead us towards a life filled with purpose, joy, and love.
