Faith Through Fire: Overcoming Addiction and Saving a Marriage
A conversation between Brad & Amber Woessner, guests; and Devaughn Williamson, host.
When you think of a couple that has their ups and downs and lives to tell the story, you automatically think of Amber and Brad. Their story is nowhere near perfect but it is one that is real, powerful and relatable which makes it that much more impactful.
Their story begins with pain. Brad battled with alcohol addiction since his early teens. He classifies alcohol as the thief that “devours what you love most”. When Brad and Amber met, they both had their wounds from previous relationships, and personal baggage. That didn’t just disappear when they said I do. As a result, their marriage was something they both had to fight for!
The best part is, they didn;t do it alone.
Their faith in God is how they would stay grounded, and aligned with what the Word of God said. Faith in God was their compass. He is their firm foundation. WHen storms arose, AND THEY DID, they didn’t retreat but leaned in.
Brad and Amber shared how they learned to fight fair in their marriage. Instead of keeping score of who did what, they choose service over selfishness. It ended up becoming a competition of who can outserve the other, and ultimately was transforming more and more into the likeness of Jesus Christ. This shift in their marriage brought much needed healing, trust, and deeper intimacy.
Also, Brad and Amber shared some tips they’ve learned in their marriage. Practically, they learned that they shouldn’t discuss the bills after a hard day of work, refusing to threaten divorce or even use the word. Instead they’ve learned to always remain grateful even in the midst of chaos.
When Brad & Amber first came together, it wasn’t a picture-perfect storyline. Brad had kids, and Amber had a dream of a big family. Blending both lives were easy, but through seasons of life, God was able to create an amazing bond with the entire family. Their youngest daughter, Avery, is referred to as the “chosen one” since she is the bridge that unites all the kids and helps foster a tight-knit family.
Brad believes wholeheartedly that God spared him not just to survive, but to make an impact. He believes he was created to help others and build something strong and life-giving from what was once broken.But life did not stop testing Brad. Brad shared how he struggled with alcohol when Avery was born.He admitted that it was one of the darkest season of their marriage.
Many couples would have called it quit, but Amber stood firm and fought for her marriage. They ended up seeking help, and their pastor told Brad frankly “satan wants to kill you. This is not a game”. Shortly after that realization, Brad got involved in Celebrate Recovery - not because he had, but because he wanted to fight for his family.
And then came the financial storm. Brad and Amber ended up buying their dream home. It had the one thing they wanted - a pool. Shortly after, the found themselves paying two mortgages for about 18 months. It was a trying period for sure, both financially and emotionally. But God reassured them that it will be okay during a sunday service. That whisper from God changes everything. A week later, they were able to sell their old house.
When they sold their dream house, they had no idea it was God preparing them for what would be ahead. Six months later, Brad was laid off from his job. Thankfully, because of their obedience, they weren’t burdened with a financial nightmare.
Through it all, whether it was addiction, pride, financial pressure, identity struggles, God kept showing up. Every time Brad would start to spiral into worry, Amber would remind him: “Remember how God showed up last time?” Over and over, she’s been the steady one, constantly pointing back to God’s undefeated track record.
Even though Brad may still have thoughts of fear and doubt, Amber is there to quickly rehearse past victories and trust God for what is ahead - even if they can’t see it.
So, if you’re in a season that feels impossible whether it feels like your marriage is breaking, or your finances are crumbling, or your heart is too heavy , use the story of Brad and Amber as a testament that redemption is real. It did not happen overnight, but it happened one night. Their journey has its scars. But with obedience, community, and a whole lot of faith, God redeems everything.
If Brad & Amber’s story inspired you, consider sharing it with someone who needs encouragement. And I encourage you to partner with Faith Ignite to help bring more stories of hope to the world. Together, we can spread messages of God's faithfulness to those who need it most.
Devaughn Williamson President, Faith Ignite Inc
