The Testimony Of Bill Greguska (Share Your Story)

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By Bill Greguska
I knew of God from a young age growing up in the church my parents took me to, but I found myself straying from His path. The allure of drugs and alcohol became too strong to resist, leading me down a dark and treacherous road. The pain I endured was crushing, so much so that thoughts of ending my own life plagued my mind during those tumultuous teenage years and early twenties. However, God’s unwavering faithfulness pulled me out of Satan’s clutches and granted me a new lease on life. Today, when people inquire about how I am doing, there is an overwhelming sense of gratitude within me as I respond by saying “Better than I deserve.” This simple phrase serves as an honest confession; an acknowledgment of just how thankful I am for everything God has bestowed upon me despite the mistakes of my past.
My story stands tall as a beacon of hope for countless individuals who find themselves grappling with their faith or battling addiction today. It illuminates the fact that even in our darkest moments when we feel utterly defeated, there remains a glimmering chance to turn things around if only we place our trust in the mighty Lord above us! My testimony carries within it the power to inspire others never to give up on themselves because they are loved unconditionally by God himself. The message behind my testimony no matter what obstacles come your way; you can overcome them with help from Jesus Christ himself! ~ Bill Greguska.
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THIS IS THE TESTIMONY OF BILL GREGUSKA
1. My Life Before Jesus.
Jesus Can Change Your Past ~ Testimony Of Bill Greguska
2. How Jesus Came Into My Life.
How Jesus came into my life is the best part of my story because it brought about a wondrous transformation. In 1986, I teetered on the edge of despair, fearing that jail was the inevitable destination for me. It was in this moment of terror that I finally came to my senses and turned to serious prayer, desperately pleading with God for another chance. And much to my relief, God answered my prayers in a way I could never have expected. The day Jesus came into my life was like a beam of light penetrating through the darkest corners of who I was and who I hoped to become. Suddenly, a newfound hope filled every inch of my soul as I realized that there was someone greater than myself who cared deeply about me.
I had always believed in God but had never truly surrendered myself completely until then. As I opened up to Him and acknowledged His presence in my life, something extraordinary began to happen within me. Gradually, the chains that bound me tightly started loosening their grip on me; their power over me fading away like mist before dawn. In those moments of surrender and vulnerability, Jesus worked miracles within me that transformed not only how I saw myself but also how others perceived me. Gone were the days when alcohol and drugs ruled over every aspect of my existence – they no longer held any attraction or control over me. A divine strength replaced the craving for substances that once consumed every fiber of my being. With each passing day since Jesus entered into my life, clarity flooded into every corner where chaos once set up camp in my life.
Instead of going to jail because of problems with the law due to my addictions, I was directed towards long-term alcohol and drug treatment — an opportunity that proved to be precisely what I needed to break free from the chains of addiction that had haunted me since high school. For ten years, these vices had consumed every aspect of my existence, leaving behind trails of pain, frustration, confusion, anxiety, and depression.
All pain had engulfed me so deeply within their grasp that thoughts of suicide plagued my mind more often than I would like to admit. But as difficult as those times were, they served a purpose: they brought me face-to-face with rock-bottom; an abyss so deep and unforgiving that surrender became not only necessary but also liberating. But finally, on June 25th, 1986–at the Gemini alcohol and drug treatment program–something extraordinary happened; Jesus came into my life.
In the midst of despair and darkness, Jesus stepped in with His unwavering love and offered me hope when all seemed lost. It was through this encounter with Him that I discovered a strength within myself that I never knew existed. He lifted me up from the depths of despair and ignited a fire in my soul – a newfound determination to leave behind the destructive patterns that held me captive for far too long. Jesus became my guiding light on this journey towards recovery. His teachings resonated deep within my heart as He showed me compassion during moments when self-forgiveness seemed impossible. Through his grace-filled presence in my life, he reminded me constantly that redemption is possible not only for me, but for anyone wanting to get right with God.
It wasn’t just a casual commitment or mere lip service like in the past; it was a profound surrender born out of desperation and fueled by faith. How Jesus came into my life is a story of His divine intervention and relentless love. The Holy Spirit prompted me into action when all previous attempts to get my life on track failed, whispering hope into the depths of my soul. I gave my life to Jesus and became born again, shedding the chains that held me captive for far too long. Many people tried to help me over the years, like links in a chain leading me closer to redemption. It was through organizations like N.A. and A.A., where I found peace amongst kindred spirits who understood my struggles, that prepared me to accept Jesus Christ as my Savior.
After abusing alcohol and drugs for what felt like an eternity growing up, I reached a tipping point where I realized that my life needed significant overhauling – not just superficial changes but an entire transformation from within. God did not wave a magic wand over me to make everything perfect overnight, but He lovingly guided me towards healing step by step. Through hearing His word preached with unwavering passion, reading His Word with hungry eyes eager for truth, and submitting myself wholeheartedly to His will even when it seemed impossible or uncomfortable, I started experiencing glimpses of how extraordinary life could be with God at the helm. The inner peace and contentment that had eluded me throughout my tumultuous journey began coming back to me in little increments. (1 John 1:9) I became very transparent because I knew that unconfessed sin was going to be a road block to my recovery. I confessed all my sins, and God forgave me of all my sins, yet with some of the sins, there were still consequences I had to deal with, such as homelessness, broken dreams, etc. But even with the consequences, I can again say God was with me and working in me.
5 Common Triggers For Drug Use And How To Avoid Them!
3. How My Life Changed Because Of Jesus.
How my life changed because of Jesus was a revelation that hit me like a ton of bricks. The weight of my mistakes and the chaos I had created seemed insurmountable, as if I were drowning in an ocean of alcohol and drugs. But in the depths of my desperation, when all hope seemed lost, something incredible happened – I surrendered to God. It was in that moment when I realized that relying solely on myself would never be enough to break free from these destructive habits.
And then came the miracle; Jesus entered my life with such power and love that He took away the overpowering desire for drugs and alcohol, liberating me from their suffocating chains. As if a fog had lifted, suddenly clarity filled my mind like never before. Every decision became clearer; every step forward felt purposeful and guided by God’s hand. Life started aligning itself perfectly according to God’s plan – not by coincidence or chance but through His deliberate unfolding right before my eyes. In this remarkable transformation, I discovered newfound strength within myself as well as an unwavering faith in our Savior who redeemed me from darkness into light.
Seeking guidance and support, I found my home in Elmbrook Church. How my life changed because of Jesus is a story filled with struggles and triumphs, doubts and unwavering faith. Their teachings resonated with me on such a deep level that it ignited positivity within my soul. Pastor Stuart Briscoe, Pastor Mel Lawrenz, and many other staff and church members took me under their wing, creating an atmosphere of love and acceptance. The truths that I heard spoke to both my heart and mind, challenging me to grow in ways unimaginable. As days turned into weeks and weeks into months, I witnessed myself transforming into the person God had always intended me to be – an exhilarating experience indeed! Deep down inside, I knew there still lay a big heart and good sense of humor within me; now those gifts were being used to glorify God and extend help to others.
Elmbrook Church played an instrumental role in helping me delve deeper into God’s word. Through their guidance, patience, and love-filled environment, revelations began flooding over me like gentle waves embracing the shoreline. Life suddenly held real meaning – purpose beyond what I could have ever honestly imagined. Amidst my hardships along this journey of faithfulness to Christ’s calling upon my life emerged the realization that there was always someone I could turn to for help – God Himself through His Word. His presence became more tangible as Elmbrook Church provided a community where His truth thrived. I attended Bible study at Mark Mallwitz’s house for over 25 years, Mark had a very big influence on me and it was good to learn in a small group setting more about Jesus Christ and how to live a Christian life. I kept learning and growing as the months and years went by. I witnessed myself growing in ways unimaginable knowing my past – it was an exhilarating experience indeed! It was almost like a miracle. Life suddenly held real meaning – purpose beyond what I could have ever honestly imagine. God placed three extraordinary individuals in my life: my dear Mom, who constantly showered me with love and guidance; Mark Mallwitz, a friend and brother in Christ who walked alongside me through my divorce and other things; Sue Sauer has been a very dedicated who I leaned on for the lions share of my spiritual direction after my divorce to the present time. She is a very wise mentor-like figure who became my big sister in Christ. These remarkable people helped shape my journey towards finding peace in God’s presence.
Through countless moments of reflection during quiet mornings regularly spent reading the Bible, journaling, and praying, I realized the profound impact that immersing myself in God’s teachings could have on my life. These sacred moments became a sanctuary amidst the chaos of everyday life, an anchor that grounded me and provided clarity. The wisdom shared by Pastor Ron and his wife Sue Sauer resonated deeply within me as they imparted their knowledge with love and compassion. They understood how lost I felt after going through a painful divorce – it was during those times when depression consumed me that they showed me God’s immense love.
But one pivotal turning point occurred when God led me to share His love through an encouragement ministry website I called NeedEncouragement.com. As Pastor Ron shared with me before – often our lowest points can become opportunities for us to reach out to others in need because we understand their pain intimately. By reaching out to others who were struggling just as I had been, I found renewed purpose beyond myself. Introducing people to Jesus’ transformative power has been a blessing in itself. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

I had the honor of taking care of my mom the last 8 years of her life, she was extremely fearful on going to a nursing home.
Above all else, it was God’s grace that saved me from despair and transformed my life because of Jesus. In the depths of my brokenness, I realized that salvation came not through any action or accomplishment on my part, but simply by confessing Jesus as Lord and Savior. It was in believing with all my heart that God raised Jesus from the dead and surrendering to His will that a profound change began to unfold within me. As I embarked on this new journey, I became aware of God’s divine plan for my life – a plan in which He desired to be not only the guiding force but also the ultimate source of love and redemption.
With the Holy Spirit now dwelling within me, I am reminded that being a Christian does not equate to perfection or complete freedom from sin; rather, it signifies continuous growth towards righteousness. Through Christ’s sacrifice, Satan’s schemes meant for harm were turned into opportunities for good in my life. Every piece of shattered dreams and lost hope was meticulously put back together by God Himself.
I cannot help but give credit where credit is due – all praise goes to God alone! It is because of Him that I found liberation from destructive habits such as drugs and alcohol. Reflecting upon how far I have come fills me with immense gratitude knowing how easily things could have ended differently if not for His intervention. My life has been marked by countless second chances generously bestowed upon me by our loving Father. Despite making an utter mess out of everything initially, God never ceased offering me grace, protection, and His love! I hope my testimony has made you aware of how God loves each and everyone of us. ~ Bill Greguska.
The Interview Testimony of Bill Greguska
Life Is Like A Basketball Game; It Is Not Over Until The Final Buzzer!
There is always hope that God gives everyone to hold on to. I am so glad I could hold on to my life by giving it to God. Have you sincerely given your life to God and trusted His work on the cross to save you from your sins?

The three main parts of my testimony are. 1. Basketball. 2. Drugs and Alcohol. 3. God and my recovery!
If you do not know your eternal destiny, today is the day to get right with God. I am so thankful that I reached out for help. Because of the direction that drugs and alcohol and my sins were leading me, I was bound to be lost for eternity, if not for Jesus Christ. I am so thankful, and you can be grateful, too, to know your destiny.
Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
Every One Of Us Has A Testimony!
Realize that your story can help encourage others! Remember that the testimony of Bill Greguska is about my struggle between my will and God’s will. I have learned that God has given us all a free choice, and our testimony is what we do with it. Please read below to know what God has taught me and done in my life. No matter what we are going through, we all need encouragement!~ Bill Greguska
Almost everybody will listen to you when you tell your own story. ~ Billy Graham
John 8:32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Here Is A Part Of My Story – God Changed My Life, and He Can Change Yours Too! My story starts in high school, where I made some terrible choices, and my life got incredibly messed up. I did manage to play basketball for a couple of years in high school, and I did pretty well, but as soon as I opened up the door to a lifestyle of drugs and alcohol, things quickly changed in my life for the worst. I allowed my desires to control my life and lived in continual defeat and frustration. There seemed to be no real meaning to life, and I seriously considered taking my life several times. I can not blame abusive parents, poverty, or anything else, except that I allowed my flesh, the devil, and the world to get the best of me. I submitted my life to Jesus in 1986 and finally got out of the driver’s seat, which has made a difference.
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Would You Happen To Know How To Share Your Testimony?
Testimony I Shared At The Milwaukee Rescue Mission on March 3, 2021

The Basketball Testimony of Bill Greguska ended in high school basically, but a new testimony came about for the Lord.
Hi everyone, I was encouraged to share my testimony with you guys again—this time, I want to share it differently. I am sure my life is not that different from most of your lives with its ups and downs, I would imagine. I grew up in the Milwaukee area. Born to a decent family, we went to church. I got a proper education.
One thing, I did get super active in basketball to the point I made it; my God. I eventually learned that was a big mistake. Then I got addicted to drugs and alcohol, which ended any future hope I had to play basketball in college. Because of my addictions, I got in trouble with the law a few times and did some jail time.
Many years later, I got married when I was 37 years old, raised a son, and ten years later, my wife divorced me. We are all old enough to reflect on our lives.
When I reflect on my life, the most important thing I did were not playing basketball, quitting drugs and alcohol, stopping getting into trouble with the law, or getting married and raising a son. All those things are all good to a point. I am sure you guys might be thinking about the most important thing you did in your life. I will tell you how I see it.
The most important thing I did in my life was when I was introduced to Jesus Christ and decided with my own free will and the Holy Spirit’s prompting that I would start to follow Jesus. And that is what I did, and I am still doing. I am not sinless, but I can say that I sin less because of Jesus, but He paid the penalty for my sins.
Accepting and following Jesus was the very logical thing for me to do. His teaching made sense to me. I did not accept Jesus the first time someone talked with me about Him, but finally, after having my last bout with the law in 1986, I was placed in long-term treatment for alcohol and drugs. I can remember the very last day I did any drugs, and right then, It came to me like turning on a light switch. I cried out to God to help me stop; sure enough, that day was the last time I used drugs or alcohol since June 25, 1986.
My life changed, and from then on, God worked on my heart by helping me change how I lived through the regeneration process. God mentally, emotionally, and spiritually freed me. I then saw that days added up to weeks, weeks added up to months, and months added up to years. I would be lying if I said that I did not hear God knocking at my door during the first 26 years of my life, but I can say that I finally had ears to hear and eyes to start to see how to live to honor God and that is what I hold on to.
I can not, or will not promise, that if you accept Jesus tonight, your life will be free of worries, problems, or pain. But I can promise you that you will have an advocate to help you through all your difficulties through prayer and having the opportunity to read His word to supply the strength and wisdom you need in this crazy world we all live in. I ask you to think about what I have said and grab the opportunity to be forgiven for your past, present, and future sins and live life the way God intended for you and me to live here on earth and eventually with Him someday in heaven. If you are ready to follow Christ, then today may be the day for you to do so! ~ Bill Greguska
God Never Left Me; He Will Never Leave You Either!
I needed encouragement and direction, and that is what I got. I have been walking with the Lord by God’s grace, walking with the Lord ever since. Jesus has led me on the straight path, and He can do the same for you. It was not until I fully accepted God’s help that I could put the alcohol and drugs away.
After all that I went through and all that I put myself through, I finally realized that I only needed to humbly ask God to come into my life to start making good out of the mess I made for myself by serving God and others. With God’s help, I turned my mess into a message to encourage you no matter what you are dealing with.
We all know that storms do not last forever (my storms lasted about ten years). I was messed up on drugs and alcohol and sin. Sometimes for reasons we may not understand, God allows things to happen for His purpose, even negative consequences like I put myself through. But keep in mind what it says in Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
The only way you can find encouragement is to keep your eyes on God instead of the tossing waves, and things will be much better when we trust God! I had faith in God since I was a young boy, seven years old, but it was not until I turned 26 that the fog lifted, and I knew God had a bigger plan for my life than I was living. Maybe it is time to discover God’s plan for your life is? Do you know God as your Lord and Savior? ~ Bill Greguska
I Knew Of God Since I Was A Young Boy, But I Was Not Always Faithful!
God has been very faithful to me. As I mentioned, when people ask me how I am doing, I tell them, “Better than I deserve.” My life completely fell apart in a few years; due to drugs and alcohol, I just wanted the pain to end and seriously considered suicide. Those thoughts haunted me, making life extremely hard to navigate with one foot in the grave and the other on thin ice; Satan was having a field day with me since Satan wants to kill, steal and destroy us. God had other plans for me that I did not yet know about. Maybe you can relate to my story. Also, your testimony might be what someone else needs to help them with their faith. Please read my full testimony of how my life was (1) Before Jesus, (2) How Jesus came into my life, (3) And how my life changed because of Jesus.
Two Situations That You Would Need To Get Right With God Are:

It was an honor to take care of my mom the last 8 years of her life here on earth.
You have never believed in God as your Lord and Savior.
You have believed, yet your life is not reflecting a life honoring God.
In either situation, God’s grace alone can help you navigate through to get right with God either for the first time or to get back on track. Start with prayer and ask God to open your eyes to the truth of His word. Ask Him to show you the way.
Also, talk to a pastor or a Christian friend to help you along the way. You can even speak to a free Christian counselor for more help if need by. Another thing you could do is chat with a Christian online.
Problems Disappearing
(This is a section from The Book I wrote)
Lord, you have told me not to worry when burdens come my way, but rather to trust that you will help me carry them. I remember that though I may be weak, you are always strong. You love me and want to help me when I reach out to you with humility and reverence, praying based on your promises. I thank you for all you have done for me.
Lord, when I was homeless and messed up on drugs and alcohol, my life was very challenging. I was even thinking of taking my life. I know I did it to myself; just like with Adam and Eve, I was tempted and fell flat on my face. I thought it would never end, but Lord, your grace was sufficient for me, and you provided me the strength I needed. You put the right people in my life, and I came to them with a teachable spirit.
Lord, may I always remember to take my concerns to you instead of wrestling with them on my own. How can I continue to flee from sin and grow closer to you each day? When I look through your eyes, I can see more clearly that you want the best for me. I know I have foolishly tried to handle things on my own. Help me realize once and for all that you want me to take all my cares to you. Please help me stay under your umbrella of protection and grace. I need to remember that seasons in life change. I may be heading into a storm, I may be in a storm, or I may be getting out of a storm.
Matthew 11:29 ~ Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
We all have burdens, and we need to learn to carry each other’s burdens, lighten each other’s load. ~ Ann Romney, wife of American businessman and politician, U. S. Senator Mitt Romney of Utah
Some Specific Scriptures To Encourage You:
1 Thessalonians 5:11 ESV
Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
Hebrews 3:13 ESV
But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.
Philippians 4:13 ESV
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Romans 15:13 ESV
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing so that by the power of the Holy Spirit, you may abound in hope.
Ephesians 4:29 ESV
Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.
Isaiah 41:10 ESV
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Hebrews 10:25 ESV
Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
John 16:33 ESV
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.
John 14:27 ESV
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
Isaiah 40:31 ESV
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
2 Timothy 1:7 ESV
For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
1 Thessalonians 4:18 ESV
Therefore encourage one another with these words.
Deuteronomy 31:6 ESV
Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.
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