Gwendel Lewis

Almost three years ago, I went in for what was supposed to be a simple thyroid removal surgery, a three-hour procedure. They kept me overnight for observation.

The next day, something in my neck popped, and I began to hemorrhage. Within moments, they rushed me back into emergency surgery. As they placed the mask over my face, I felt my spirit leave my body.

I hovered above the operating table, watching everything unfold. On my left and on my right stood angels. Peace surrounded me. In that moment, I knew my time was not finished. God still had more for me to do.

The next day, I woke up in the ICU on a ventilator. I remained in the hospital for six days. From that day forward, I made a decision: I would run to Christ and never turn back. Since that moment, I have not picked up a vape, smoked marijuana, or taken a single drink of wine.

But let me be honest, the journey wasn’t easy. After the surgery, I lost my voice. My vocal cords were paralyzed, and for nine long months, I could not speak. No one could hear me.

Yet even in the silence, God was working. Healing came gradually, day by day, breath by breath. And now, here I stand, preaching the Word of God in the streets, in states, and in countries, with a voice stronger than before.

That was my crushing. God allowed it, not to destroy me, but to drive me into His arms. And I stand here today to tell you this: Don’t wait until you are crushed to answer the call on your life.