By Ollus Ndomu
In a candid online interaction, Bethel Michelo, a young man from Zambia, shared a deeply personal journey that serves as an inspiring beacon of hope. His story speaks to the incredible power of faith, resilience, and the transformative influence of the right company, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, all things are possible.
Bethel began his story with an astonishing revelation: “What surprised me the most about myself is that I never failed any exam despite being in substance abuse. My results were always on point.” Despite these academic achievements, he candidly admitted that the thought of quitting his destructive habits seemed distant.
However, in 2021, Bethel’s life took a drastic turn when he found himself on the wrong side of the law due to drug abuse. “It was hell in a cell,” he recalled, as he was confined for 15 agonizing days. Inside those unforgiving walls, he encountered fellow inmates who shared their stories, some so humorous that they became inside jokes. Yet, amid the darkness, Bethel’s future looked grim, and he battled depression.
Then, a moment of clarity emerged. “One morning, I prayed to God, and I vividly remember my words to Him. I said, ‘Dear Lord, show me what it means to have Christ in my life.'” Miraculously, a few days later, his freedom was restored—an unexpected turning point that defied belief.
Upon returning to school [Rusangu University], Bethel faced the harsh judgment of his actions but remained steadfast in his pursuit of change. He sought support through social groups, guided by individuals like DR Patricia Tembo and Mr. Kapenya, who taught him how to conquer the temptations of drugs. Slowly, he found strength in his faith, ultimately getting baptized at Rusangu University International SDA Church in November 2021.
But Bethel’s transformation didn’t stop there. In 2022, he began working with the church’s media team, taking on leadership roles. He was elected as the president of the Journalism department at RU and became the school representative for the school of Humanities and Social Sciences. In 2023, he was chosen as the public relations officer by the student body.
Bethel Michelo’s remarkable journey from darkness to light is a shining example of the boundless possibilities that await those who turn to faith and surround themselves with the right company. His story is a beacon of hope for all who face adversity, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, there is the potential for transformation and redemption.
Bethel’s life serves as a powerful testament to the incredible power of faith, resilience, and the unwavering human spirit. His message is clear: with God and the right companions by your side, all things are possible. His story is an inspiring reminder that no matter how deep the darkness may seem, the dawn of a new beginning is always within reach.
