I came to the Denton Freedom House broken, looking for an answer. Little did I know I’d find exactly what I was looking for and so much more. Growing up I endured physical and mental abuse. I witnessed many things I shouldn’t have and had a lot of resentment. I followed my mother and father’s foot steps and sought pleasure in my sin and found solace in my addictions. I left home and was on my own at age seventeen.
I stayed in and out of jail and always felt empty. I went to prison for attempt to commit aggravated robbery in 2003. Upon my release, God introduced me to a man who employed me, and witnessed to me.
Last year I went to jail twice. While there I attended bible study, and eventually committed my heart to God. I found out about D.F.H. in jail. Shortly after my release, I met Jeremy Adams while walking down McKinney Street at the construction site of Zera Coffee Company. I wasn’t looking for him. I was actually running from my commitment to God. What I didn’t know is that I was about to have a divine intervention from God. I went around the corner and there sat a D.F.H. van.
I wanted to run but my spirit wouldn’t allow me to. I spoke with Jeremy and although he questioned my sincerity, he assured me there was a spot available at D.F.H. for me. I then told him I had unfinished business to take care of. I left and every day for three days my spirit kept rehashing that conversation with Jeremy. Finally on the third day, October the 28th, I decided to come to D.F.H.
This was the answer for me. I found where I belonged. Only in full surrender to God have I learned to find peace in His wisdom. D.F.H. has taught me how to bear fruit, obtain knowledge, and how to apply that knowledge through my actions. I have learned the importance of reading and trusting in God’s Word. God has snatched me from sin and bondage and breathed new life into me.
I chose to be an intern here at D.F.H. and give back a portion of what has been so graciously bestowed upon my life. I don’t know what the next chapter of my life entails or where the Lord may lead me. I don’t know what line of service is ahead for my King or His Kingdom. I do know that for this season I am right where God wants me to be. God has restored my mind and is refining me one day at a time. I have found true freedom.
For all who support monetarily, for the intercessors, for the mentors, for all who labor behind the scenes. Thank you. No good deed goes unnoticed before the Lord.
God bless you.
Derek A. Richardson
