Reared and baptized as a Christian in my youth, I rebelled in my later adult years and went through a period that really disappointed me and shook my faith in “religion”, “church” and all that I had been brought up to believe.  In the spring of 1988, after years of struggle, which had included abandonment of religion and divorce, I moved with one of my sons to California to be nearer to my sisters and their children.  While there, after going through a divorce recovery counseling group, I happened to meet Joyce who later became my wife and moved to Paradise CA.
I still had difficulties with “religion”, and “worthiness of salvation” until at a later point I attended a program call “ALPHA” where I began to re-examine: “Why” believe in the Bible; “Why” do I need a “Savior”; “Why” believe the bible is true; “Why” should I go to “Church” etc.?
I had found earlier that living a hedonistic lifestyle resulted in only guilt and shame.  Although I had struggled with my “faith-vs.-works” mentality and given up on God, He had not abandoned me.  As I began to understand my Bible in a much better way, I knew that I could not “earn” salvation by good works!   As Eph. 2:8-9 says: “For by grace are you saved through faith, and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God - Not by works, lest any man should boast”.  
I now believe that God has restored and blessed my life, has given me peace, faith, and a greater love for Him. While trusting in His providential leadership He has renewed my hope, given me a better understanding of His word and His love, along with the love of my wife of 31 years.
If my wife and I may help you in any way, as servants of Christ, let’s talk; and by God’s grace we will all move forward and grow together in HIS LOVE – Gary & Joyce McPherson