Welcome everyone to Family Talk. It's a ministry of the James Dobson Family Institute, supported by listeners just like you.

I'm Dr. James Dobson, and I'm thrilled that you've joined us.

Well, welcome to Family Talk, featuring psychologist and bestselling author Dr. James Dobson.

I'm Roger Marsh, and today we're going to hear the conclusion of a powerful conversation

featuring Matthew Mayer, a former professional soccer player who drove drunk, took a man's life,

and served nearly five years in prison. But what happened inside those walls

is a story of faith spreading in the darkest of places. We're also going to hear from Matthew's

wife Sarah, whose journey to find him began with a dream she just couldn't shake. Here now is

their conversation with Dr. James Dobs Thompson on today's edition of Family Talk.

You went from this idol, you know, sports heroes become idols to people.

And you went from that lofty position to a convict.

Correct. Inmate of the state, 314525 is my state SBI number. I entered into the facility and there was immediate attention given to me because of who I was.

They watched it on the news. They saw the forgiveness scene unfold before the very eyes.

So there were a lot of people coming up to me, embracing me, giving me favor immediately,

especially from the inmate population, a lot of soccer fans.

So that idolization did not stop, but I chose not to use it the way I did in the past.

I chose to use it as influence and influence these men based on what God has done in my life.

And it was so early on that I grasped that.

And then there was favor from corrections officers, but there was also animosity and hate from both parties alike.

Inmates, envious.

Did you start trying to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ?

It took a while.

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