Episode 1 · Addiction

Can Jesus really change my life?

“This is for someone who feels like they’ve been failing in the same ways over and over… that there is no hope and no way out… that there is a lane for them, a place for them… for one who feels completely alone and lost in this world. The symptoms are a drug user, someone from a rough upbringing — I could speak to so many. It’s like a cure-all. — Tennessee Worthy”

Session type: Song Devotion  ·  Guest: Joshua Tennessee & Laura Beth Worthy  ·  Length: ~59:16

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Joshua Tennessee and Laura Beth Worthy at St. Francis Park
Episode overview

From the streets to a marriage anchored in Christ

Joshua and Laura Beth’s story begins in the shadows — two young lives marked by addiction, broken families, and a desperate search for purpose. Their path to St. Augustine wasn’t planned; it was a series of chaotic decisions, stolen cars, and divine interruptions. They slept behind a statue in St. Francis Park — the same park where they would one day exchange vows.

Through jail cells, homelessness, and near-death moments, God kept whispering. A mysterious man in a van spoke truth he could not have known. A stranger on the street mentioned Pastor Chris at the exact moment they wished they could find him. A small house church opened its doors and showed them what the love of Jesus truly looks like.

Josh’s transformation began when he opened the Bible not out of obligation, but desperation. In its pages, he saw his own reflection — and the outstretched hand of a Savior who refused to give up on him. One step at a time, he laid down addiction, anger, counterfeit identity, and the destructive life he once called normal.

Today, Joshua and Laura Beth stand as living proof that no one is too lost for God to find. Their journey is now shared through Song Devotions sessions created to help seekers discover that there is always hope.

Story behind the songs

Joshua’s song choices reflect the entire arc of his testimony — from destruction, to surrender, to redemption. He first played “Live Forever,” a Billy Joe Shaver song written by an outlaw songwriter who later came to faith. The song echoes the idea that life doesn’t end with our failures; for those who belong to Jesus, death becomes a homecoming, not a threat.

But the moment that truly defines Joshua’s journey is wrapped up in the song he ultimately played: “All My Hope Is in Jesus.” He explains that the lyrics describe his life with startling accuracy — held by the Savior, no stranger to prison, shackles and chains traded for freedom and forgiveness.

Joshua says this song “condenses everything” he lived through — addiction, jail, brokenness, the shame of relapse, and the miracle of finding freedom in Christ. For anyone who feels stuck, unworthy, or beyond help, his performance is not just music — it’s a testimony set to melody.

Notes & reflection

  • Where do you see yourself in Tennessee and Laura Beth’s story — running, hiding, or asking God for help?
  • Tennessee describes encountering people who “should not have known” details about his life. Where has God sent someone to speak truth into your situation?
  • What chains — addiction, fear, shame, destructive habits — do you need Jesus to break?
  • Tennessee and Laura Beth didn’t change overnight. How is God calling you to trust Him one small step at a time?
  • How does the song “All My Hope” speak into your own struggles or past?
Song performance

All My Hope Is in Jesus

Verse 1 I've been held by the Saviour I've felt fire from above I've been down to the river I ain't the same, a prodigal returned Chorus All my hope is in Jesus Thank God that yesterday's gone And all my sins are forgiven And I've been washed by the blood Verse 2 I'm no stranger to the prison I've worn shackles and chains But I've been freed and forgiven Yes, I have I'm not going back, I'll never be the same.

Because the songs in this episode are copyrighted works, we can’t post full lyrics here. But listen closely to the themes Joshua highlights — freedom, rescue, renewal, and hope. His performance of “All My Hope” becomes a testimony in itself.

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