Addiction affects people of all ages and from all walks of life. It also has an impact on the families and friends of those who become addicted.
Gabriel, husband and a father of four, nearly lost his family because of his alcoholism. Without God’s intervention Gabriel’s life was headed for disaster.
“I was addicted to alcohol for 30 years. I had many partners outside my marriage. I fought with my wife whenever I was drunk. I would bring friends home and we would drink together. I would also bring my extended family together and slaughter for my ancestors,” said Gabriel. 
Nothing worked for Gabriel as his life was plagued by bad luck. Things were bad for him. “At some point I was beaten up by my colleagues who were on strike. They falsely accused me of working during the strike. I sustained head and other internal injuries,” he said. Gabriel’s wife, Zanele, came to the church in 2004. In her desperation to save her marriage and her husband’s life, she also invited him to the church. Gabriel turned down his wife’s invitations for several years. Only in December 2007 did he decide to join her.
“The UCKG had its Night Vigil at FNB Stadium and I decided to attend. I continued coming to the church since that day. I later committed my life to God and I engaged in chains of prayers. My wife also prayed for me. God showed Himself in my life. I slowly lost the desire to drink until I stopped completely,” said Gabriel.
“The Campaign of Israel was introduced in the church and I took part asking God to transform and bless my life. After the campaign God blessed me. I was paid money from a company that had been liquidated and I managed to buy three houses and a plot. I also bought cars — a BMW 730 D, a Vito Mercedes, a Renault Scenic, a Yaris, and a VW Touareg some of which are being used by my children. There is peace in my family. God has changed me, my life and my family,” said Gabriel.