Finding God’s Direction
From Purdue classrooms to a steady career, Daren thought life would continue on a familiar path. But when seizures and setbacks upended everything, he realized he needed a new start—and that’s when Wheeler Mission became part of his story.
“I never in a million years thought I would end up in a place like this,” he shared. But in his search for hope and spiritual growth, Wheeler Mission became the place where God was calling him.
“I feel like I’m where I need to be. I don’t know what the future holds, but I know at this point in time, I’m where I’m supposed to be.”
His first night wasn’t easy. Coming in during the winter months, Daren remembers the uncertainty of walking into a crowded shelter, unsure of what to expect. Sleeping on a mat on the floor was nothing like the comfort of home. But something stood out immediately—he noticed the staff’s warmth, their care, and their clear desire to put Jesus first in everything they do.
For Daren, Wheeler Mission has been more than just a safe place to stay. It’s been a place to grow spiritually. He’s serving by helping in the kitchen during meals, attending Bible studies, and surrounding himself with people who encourage him to walk with Christ.
One Bible study on self-control especially spoke to him as he works through struggles with food addiction. While he admits he hasn’t fully overcome it, he knows God is working in him: “I feel like I’m definitely on the path to hopefully having victory over that.”
Even in just a short time at Wheeler, Daren says the experience has helped keep him grounded in God’s Word, reminding him not to stray but to walk the path Jesus wants for him.
When asked about the future, Daren doesn’t have concrete plans—but he knows what matters most: growing in his faith. Whether through a new job, community service, or something unexpected, he trusts that God will lead him where he needs to be.
And through it all, gratitude fills his heart: “I’m thankful for Wheeler Mission because it’s a Christ-based organization. The staff here really cares about people, no matter what circumstances brought them here. They want to see people succeed, grow, and live for Jesus.”
Watch Daren’s story here: Watch Video
