After nearly three decades of addiction to drugs and alcohol, U.S. Army veteran Matthew Linehan has released a new book, ‘Free Indeed: The Seven Keys to Unlock Your Freedom,’ detailing the biblical principles that helped him break free from bondage. The book, published by Lucid Books, aims to offer hope to those struggling with addiction, shame, and destructive patterns, as well as to their families and ministry leaders.
Linehan’s journey into addiction began after his father’s suicide when he was young, leading to years of grief and pain. In January 2015, he experienced a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ that he says completely set him free. ‘After nearly 30 years of addiction, I encountered Jesus Christ and was completely set free,’ Linehan said. ‘I wrote this book because I want people to know that no matter how long they have struggled, freedom is still possible. There is hope, and there is a way forward.’
The book introduces seven biblical principles that Linehan developed while teaching the ‘Free Indeed’ curriculum with his wife, Emily, at a large church in Houston, Texas. He combined the curriculum with his personal testimony of addiction and redemption, offering a practical, Scripture-based approach to overcoming strongholds. ‘I believe this book is different because I lived it, walked it out, and came through the other side to talk about it,’ Linehan said. ‘These principles are not theories to me. They are biblical truths that transformed my life and became the foundation of the message God has called me to share.’
Linehan began seriously working on the book around 2020, despite challenges related to ADHD. His goal is simple: to provide hope. ‘If readers take away only one thing from this book, I want it to be hope,’ he said. ‘Jesus offers abundant new life to everyone who is willing to surrender. Freedom is not reserved for a select few, and no one is too broken, too ashamed, or too far gone to experience the transforming power of God’s grace.’
In addition to his writing, Linehan co-founded Men in Christ Global Ministries, which focuses on helping men grow spiritually and become leaders. He is also a graduate of Lakewood Church’s Pastoral Care Internship and has served as a men’s ministry director. He currently lives in Taipei, Taiwan, with his wife and daughter, while continuing to minister internationally.
The book is now available through Lucid Books, an independent hybrid publisher based in Houston. For more information about the book or the publisher, visit Lucid Books.
