Baseball Career Derailed by Addiction
Josh Hamilton, once a promising young baseball player, found his life spiraling out of control due to addiction. Drafted first overall by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in 1999, his career was derailed by injuries and substance abuse. In 2001, a car accident led to painkiller use, and soon he was caught in the grip of addiction, making eight trips to rehab and being suspended from baseball.
Grandmother's Challenge Changes Everything
In October 2005, at his lowest point, Josh appeared at his grandmother's doorstep seeking help. Weighing 180 pounds and covered in tattoos, he was challenged by his grandmother to surrender his life to God. Josh recalled, "Alone, I couldn't win this battle. With Jesus, I couldn't lose." This marked a turning point in his life.
Faith Delivers from Drug Addiction
Through faith and support, Josh overcame his addiction. On October 6, 2005, he took his last drink, and by 2007, he was back in Major League Baseball with the Cincinnati Reds. His career blossomed with the Texas Rangers, leading them to consecutive World Series appearances and earning the American League MVP award in 2010.
Living with Transformed Priorities
Josh attributes his comeback to his relationship with God. As he shared, "My relationship with Jesus Christ has answered that question," when asked how he managed to return to the sport. His life priorities transformed, placing God first, followed by humility, family, sobriety, and then baseball.
Despite moments of relapse, Josh remained steadfast in his faith. In 2011, during the World Series, he felt the Holy Spirit guiding him. Josh believes these experiences reinforced his reliance on faith.
Post-retirement, Josh dedicated himself to his family. His journey from addiction to redemption underscores the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ, who he believes was instrumental in his recovery and success.
