We live in a world of bad news. You do not have to look far to find news of mishaps, scandal and misfortune. I heard someone say, “Isn’t there any good news anymore?”

One of the central purposes of the Baptist Messenger has been to highlight inspiring stories of life change— examples of lives that have been dramatically redeemed and transformed.

If you think about it, that is also a central theme of the Bible and our faith: Redemption.

Consider these recent stories, all from right here in Oklahoma, that have appeared in the Messenger magazine that demonstrate God’s work.

TARVORIS (TEE) UZOIGWE

Tee, who now serves as Oklahoma Baptists evangelism and apologetics ministry partner, grew up in a broken home, in poor circumstances and making poor choices. God used a godly couple to love him and share the Good News of Jesus. Tee’s life was turned around, and he now serves the Lord.

EMMITT MCKENZIE

Emmitt became addicted to alcohol and drugs at an early age. A life of sin was outward evidence of the anger and lostness in his life. Someone was faithful to share the Gospel, and Emmitt went from gangs to God. He is now an evangelist and missionary.

LAURA PERRY

Laura grew up in a Christian home, but she struggled with her identity as a woman. She rebelled and lived as a transgender male for nearly 10 years before the Lord reached her heart. Laura has embraced her God-given sexuality and now ministers to families affected by LGBT issues.

MIGUEL

Miguel is serving a life sentence in prison for crimes he committed. The Lord radically saved him, and he is now a student in Oklahoma Baptist University’s Prison Divinity Program, sharing the Gospel with joy amid inmates.

JULIE BUSLER

Julie and her husband were serving the Lord as missionaries. Due to some unresolved trauma in her life, Julie was depressed and no one knew it. She ultimately became suicidal. The light of Christ reached Julie at her lowest point, and she found joy in the Lord and now shares her story of redemption and hope with others.

These are just a few examples of the life change happening all across the state of Oklahoma and the world.

Now, we know that many life stories do not have a happy ending. Even in those difficulties, God can work in those situations, God can get glory.

At the same time, it is our hearts’ desire as His followers to see a godly turnaround happen in the lives of others and our own.

Corrie Ten Boom once said, “If you look at the world, you’ll be distressed. If you look within, you’ll be depressed. If you look at God you’ll be at rest.”