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Recovered: How an Accident, Alcohol, and Addiction Led Me to God
Robby Gallaty is not who you think he is.
In Recovered , pastor and author Robby Gallaty tells the story of how God radically saved him from his addictions and called him into a life of discipleship.
Robby grew up in a very religious Catholic family who attended church every Sunday and confession on Saturday if needed. Very rarely did he miss a Saturday night dinner and a movie with his parents and sister Lori. You can imagine how devastated they were when Robby stole $15,000 from them to fuel his drug addiction. Two years earlier, he was rear-ended on his way home from work by an 18-wheeler. Two herniated discs in his neck and back forced him to rely on pharmaceutical drugs to cope with the pain. Within three months, he transitioned to street drugs, heroine, and cocaine, after blowing through his thirty-day prescription in two weeks. Robbing his parents was the only option to prolong his drug habit.
Shortly thereafter, Robby hit rock bottom. But God wasn’t done with him. After a trip to rehab followed by a relapse and a second rehab visit, Robby surrendered his life to Christ, and nothing has ever been the same. This story—a story of salvation and new life—is for any reader
In Recovered , pastor and author Robby Gallaty tells the story of how God radically saved him from his addictions and called him into a life of discipleship.
Robby grew up in a very religious Catholic family who attended church every Sunday and confession on Saturday if needed. Very rarely did he miss a Saturday night dinner and a movie with his parents and sister Lori. You can imagine how devastated they were when Robby stole $15,000 from them to fuel his drug addiction. Two years earlier, he was rear-ended on his way home from work by an 18-wheeler. Two herniated discs in his neck and back forced him to rely on pharmaceutical drugs to cope with the pain. Within three months, he transitioned to street drugs, heroine, and cocaine, after blowing through his thirty-day prescription in two weeks. Robbing his parents was the only option to prolong his drug habit.
Shortly thereafter, Robby hit rock bottom. But God wasn’t done with him. After a trip to rehab followed by a relapse and a second rehab visit, Robby surrendered his life to Christ, and nothing has ever been the same. This story—a story of salvation and new life—is for any reader
272 pages, Paperback
Published October 15, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
March 17, 2024
At 6'6" and 285 lbs, Robby Gallaty is larger than life. And his story is even bigger than that...
This page-turner lays out the radical salvation story of one of America's rising pastors. Gallaty looked for satisfaction in college basketball, alcohol, drugs, Christian music, the night club scene, even jiu jitsu. Everywhere he turned left him empty.
A lot of testimonials spin yarns about riotous living before coming to Christ. No doubt, Gallaty lived on the edge. He wonders out loud several times why he is even alive today. Yet, his telling of his past in done in taste. He avoids the trap of over sensationalizing his past. In fact, he paints his past life in very dark hues. No one could read his story and think that his addiction issues were fun or glamorous. When he tells of the moment where his parents discovered his drug addiction, it literally brought me to tears.
Gallaty paints a clear path towards Jesus. He does so with a humility that is God-honoring and an unction for evangelism that is convicting and inspiring. I deeply appreciate the afterword where he calls the reader to faith.
Robby Gallaty is polarizing to some in the Christian community today. I don't defend or endorse all the things he does (I don't feel like I sufficiently know all the aspects of his theology or ministry to even begin to do so.). However, I hope the theological naysayers will take a deep breath and enjoy the beautiful picture painted in Recovered. Jesus is made beautiful in this book. I hope we can all agree on what a good thing that is!
This page-turner lays out the radical salvation story of one of America's rising pastors. Gallaty looked for satisfaction in college basketball, alcohol, drugs, Christian music, the night club scene, even jiu jitsu. Everywhere he turned left him empty.
A lot of testimonials spin yarns about riotous living before coming to Christ. No doubt, Gallaty lived on the edge. He wonders out loud several times why he is even alive today. Yet, his telling of his past in done in taste. He avoids the trap of over sensationalizing his past. In fact, he paints his past life in very dark hues. No one could read his story and think that his addiction issues were fun or glamorous. When he tells of the moment where his parents discovered his drug addiction, it literally brought me to tears.
Gallaty paints a clear path towards Jesus. He does so with a humility that is God-honoring and an unction for evangelism that is convicting and inspiring. I deeply appreciate the afterword where he calls the reader to faith.
Robby Gallaty is polarizing to some in the Christian community today. I don't defend or endorse all the things he does (I don't feel like I sufficiently know all the aspects of his theology or ministry to even begin to do so.). However, I hope the theological naysayers will take a deep breath and enjoy the beautiful picture painted in Recovered. Jesus is made beautiful in this book. I hope we can all agree on what a good thing that is!
December 8, 2019
Sometimes you read a book and can’t help but wish it was you that had written it. Sometimes it’s because of the writing itself- the beauty of how the words are put together, and sometimes it’s for the experiences that you can relate to which are narrated in those words. Other times it’s just because of the message of hope that is conveyed, a message that so many people need to hear.
Robby Gallaty is a pastor and the author of several books pertaining to leading and growing a church., I’ve read and enjoyed some of them. But his latest book—Recovered: How an Accident, Alcohol and Addiction Led Me to God (with Rob Suggs, B&H Publishing, 2019)—is one of those books that I wish I had written. The words are put together in such a fashion that I was drawn deeply into the story. Much of his story, changing names, dates, and places, could be my story, and there is definitely a message of hope for those who are struggling with addiction.
Many people see addicts and alcoholics as the stereotypical loser. Broken family, generational poverty, low IQ, influenced by gangs and all sorts of undesirables. Nothing could be further from the truth. Gallaty’s family was and is involved in his life, they lived a comfortable life style, he’s intelligent and well spoken, and had good influences in his life—many of which he chose to ignore.
As a functioning addict, Gallaty was able to maintain the important relationships in his life. He was a successful at a number of jobs, and made friends easily. But he was involved in an accident, and the pain pills that he was prescribed led him down a path on which he could have gotten lost, with no hope of being found.
But God was at work in his life, even before he knew that he was lost. This book tells the story of how a young man became ensnared in the trap of addiction, and how God found him. As you read the book you become aware of how Great a God we have, One who can take the most unlikely of candidates, very broken man, and restore him to wholeness and then use him to impact huge numbers of people through his books, his preaching, and by telling his life story.
I’ve already recommended this book to several people who are in recovery and struggling with the idea of a Higher Power, God who could love, save and restore them regardless of what they have done. I also serve as a chaplain for a recovery program, and I see this book as an added-value resource which can be used to demonstrate key concepts.
Definitely a 5-star rating
I received a copy of this book from the publisher as a member of their bloggers’ program.
Robby Gallaty is a pastor and the author of several books pertaining to leading and growing a church., I’ve read and enjoyed some of them. But his latest book—Recovered: How an Accident, Alcohol and Addiction Led Me to God (with Rob Suggs, B&H Publishing, 2019)—is one of those books that I wish I had written. The words are put together in such a fashion that I was drawn deeply into the story. Much of his story, changing names, dates, and places, could be my story, and there is definitely a message of hope for those who are struggling with addiction.
Many people see addicts and alcoholics as the stereotypical loser. Broken family, generational poverty, low IQ, influenced by gangs and all sorts of undesirables. Nothing could be further from the truth. Gallaty’s family was and is involved in his life, they lived a comfortable life style, he’s intelligent and well spoken, and had good influences in his life—many of which he chose to ignore.
As a functioning addict, Gallaty was able to maintain the important relationships in his life. He was a successful at a number of jobs, and made friends easily. But he was involved in an accident, and the pain pills that he was prescribed led him down a path on which he could have gotten lost, with no hope of being found.
But God was at work in his life, even before he knew that he was lost. This book tells the story of how a young man became ensnared in the trap of addiction, and how God found him. As you read the book you become aware of how Great a God we have, One who can take the most unlikely of candidates, very broken man, and restore him to wholeness and then use him to impact huge numbers of people through his books, his preaching, and by telling his life story.
I’ve already recommended this book to several people who are in recovery and struggling with the idea of a Higher Power, God who could love, save and restore them regardless of what they have done. I also serve as a chaplain for a recovery program, and I see this book as an added-value resource which can be used to demonstrate key concepts.
Definitely a 5-star rating
I received a copy of this book from the publisher as a member of their bloggers’ program.
November 15, 2019
Sometimes we hear about someone, or even interact with someone frequently, and yet have no idea what that person has been through or is currently walking through. I knew that Robby Gallaty was a pastor and an author, but I did not know what his past held. In Recovered, Robby is courageous enough to share his past, and it included drugs, addiction, and hitting rock bottom a few times before finally overcoming in Christ.
This book follows Robby as he battles addiction to pharmaceutical drugs after he gets addicted to them after a car accident. He watches friends dying, loses his possessions, steals from his parents, and loses their support. Finally, he admits that he needs help, and begins the journey to recovery. It is not a smooth transition from addiction to sobriety, and Robby is brutally honest as he chronicles his life. You will laugh and cry as you follow him through the poor decisions, victories, set-backs, recovery, and finding God’s purpose for his life.
This was a book that captured my attention and kept me engrossed throughout the entire book. The message of ultimate victory in Christ is one that would be beneficial for anyone who has struggled with addiction, if you have a loved one battling addiction, or anyone who just has messed up and needs a reminder of the redemption found in Jesus.
I received a copy of this book from B & H Publishing, in return for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This book follows Robby as he battles addiction to pharmaceutical drugs after he gets addicted to them after a car accident. He watches friends dying, loses his possessions, steals from his parents, and loses their support. Finally, he admits that he needs help, and begins the journey to recovery. It is not a smooth transition from addiction to sobriety, and Robby is brutally honest as he chronicles his life. You will laugh and cry as you follow him through the poor decisions, victories, set-backs, recovery, and finding God’s purpose for his life.
This was a book that captured my attention and kept me engrossed throughout the entire book. The message of ultimate victory in Christ is one that would be beneficial for anyone who has struggled with addiction, if you have a loved one battling addiction, or anyone who just has messed up and needs a reminder of the redemption found in Jesus.
I received a copy of this book from B & H Publishing, in return for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
December 10, 2019
I have been incredibly blessed by the ministry of Robby Gallaty. I have read through a number of his books and even taught through three of them. His articulation of the principles of discipleship have been invaluable to me as I seek to “make disciples who make disciples.”
“Recovered: How an Accident, Alcohol & Addiction Led Me to God” has a very different feel than the rest of his books. “Recovered” is a personal testimony of how God radically saved Robby from a life of addiction and a path that for many meets with a very different end. God’s providence in his life is evidence that “no on is beyond the reach of God’s grace.”
For those who struggle with addiction, I strongly recommend this book. For those who have loved ones who struggle or have struggled with addiction (as my family has), I strongly recommend this book.
God has the power to rescue and transform lives. Robby’s testimony of how God rescued him will give you hope. #RecoveredBook @rgallaty @bhpub
“Recovered: How an Accident, Alcohol & Addiction Led Me to God” has a very different feel than the rest of his books. “Recovered” is a personal testimony of how God radically saved Robby from a life of addiction and a path that for many meets with a very different end. God’s providence in his life is evidence that “no on is beyond the reach of God’s grace.”
For those who struggle with addiction, I strongly recommend this book. For those who have loved ones who struggle or have struggled with addiction (as my family has), I strongly recommend this book.
God has the power to rescue and transform lives. Robby’s testimony of how God rescued him will give you hope. #RecoveredBook @rgallaty @bhpub
July 18, 2021
This was an easy and interesting read. Robby Galaxy has overcome much. He is vulnerable and open; he tells his story with candour and honesty. He demonstrates that “with God, all things are possible”.
I am glad he now has faith and purpose. I am happy he has found a stabilizing force in his wife and family.
My only dislike was the way he questioned his disinterested father about his lukewarm faith and then expected answers of any substance. When searching for real truth/answers, that does not seem like the best way to go about it. Instead, I kept hoping he would DIVE IN; not just listen to what he’s told or what he’s read. I still hope he pursues the answers to the questions he has about Catholicism, but from *actual* sources of Catholic knowledge, tradition and history. I think that will give the author real fulfillment.
I am glad he now has faith and purpose. I am happy he has found a stabilizing force in his wife and family.
My only dislike was the way he questioned his disinterested father about his lukewarm faith and then expected answers of any substance. When searching for real truth/answers, that does not seem like the best way to go about it. Instead, I kept hoping he would DIVE IN; not just listen to what he’s told or what he’s read. I still hope he pursues the answers to the questions he has about Catholicism, but from *actual* sources of Catholic knowledge, tradition and history. I think that will give the author real fulfillment.
March 22, 2020
I love a well written story shared by the author about his or her life. This book is one of those. Robby Gallaty shares his testimony in book form. As somebody who is forming a new friendship with the author, I really appreciated this story.
Not only is his story 'unbelievable' at times, but he has learned how to share it in a way that is wonderfully relevant even to those who don't have such outlandish experiences. It was a great time of thinking to myself, "No way." and then continuing to hear about what God did in his life.
Another thing I appreciated about this book is how Robby didn't turn his story into some dramatic polemic full of grandiose statements of who God is or what God unequivocally wants to do. The story-telling was humble, reflective and gentle. It was a pleasure to read.
Not only is his story 'unbelievable' at times, but he has learned how to share it in a way that is wonderfully relevant even to those who don't have such outlandish experiences. It was a great time of thinking to myself, "No way." and then continuing to hear about what God did in his life.
Another thing I appreciated about this book is how Robby didn't turn his story into some dramatic polemic full of grandiose statements of who God is or what God unequivocally wants to do. The story-telling was humble, reflective and gentle. It was a pleasure to read.
October 23, 2019
I couldn’t put this book down. I was riveted by the persistence of God in Dr Gallaty’s life despite his persistence toward sin. So it is with all of our stories: the same persistent God, but we each chase various sins and all need redemption.
Not only is this an excellent account of God’s pursuit of Robby, it is a testimony of faith and God’s power at work in His people when they seek Him in dependent prayer.
Not only is this an excellent account of God’s pursuit of Robby, it is a testimony of faith and God’s power at work in His people when they seek Him in dependent prayer.
October 23, 2019
Robby's story is naturally shared - could almost hear him telling the story as if he was in the room with me as I read. The power of God in His life even before he knew what that meant is compelling. For anyone who has felt overpowered by forces beyond their control, this is a great read! I will be recommending it to many people who have already come to mind that I believe it will encourage and inspire.
November 18, 2019
Great book. Gallaty magnifies the grace and mercy of God. His writing about his life is shockingly honest, but never gratuitous to glorify sin. He clearly points to sin as the problem and Jesus Christ as the answer. That is completely true of everyone of us, whether you've ever experienced addiction or not.
January 9, 2023
Never Underestimate the Power of Almighty God
I like Robbys' transparency in sharing his testimony. I am a firm believer of allowing others to see the down ward spiral God saves us from. Trust and believe! Share your life struggles there are people such as myself praying for you, just as they prayed for me. Thank you Jesus for saving me. Hallelujah!
I like Robbys' transparency in sharing his testimony. I am a firm believer of allowing others to see the down ward spiral God saves us from. Trust and believe! Share your life struggles there are people such as myself praying for you, just as they prayed for me. Thank you Jesus for saving me. Hallelujah!
October 21, 2019
If you struggle with addiction, looking for purpose, peace, joy read this book! If you are a believer read this book and be encouraged to pray, read, memorize scripture, disciple others, a true prodigal son story, God’s grace is always greater than our problems!
November 2, 2019
Very powerful testimony! I was captivated by the story. A great reminder of God's passionate pursuit of His prodigal children. If you or someone you care about struggles with any kind of addiction, I highly recommend this book!
January 14, 2020
This is an amazing story of the transforming power of God. I would recommend this book to anyone, but especially those that struggle with addiction or know someone who does.
January 28, 2020
Such a good book. I love how open and honest he was about his struggle through addiction and didn't try to hide it sugarcoat it. It makes it a tough but good read.
August 29, 2023
Great read
I love the fluidity of the writing and how the story moves along in a captivating way. Giving you just enough depth to enjoy and enough pace to keep you turning pages.
I love the fluidity of the writing and how the story moves along in a captivating way. Giving you just enough depth to enjoy and enough pace to keep you turning pages.
September 12, 2023
It’s pretty good bio. A little disguised ego maybe minor bragging runs through it. Wouldn’t buy it new. Easy read.
October 24, 2019
After spending 10 years in New Orleans, I knew Robby Gallaty’s name and one-sentence summary of his story. It truly is a redemptive story, and I appreciated the reality in the details. The most helpful section is probably the afterward with advice to addicts and their families.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews