When your military career ends, your purpose doesn't have to. Gabriel found a mission worth living for.
After 12 years in the United States Marine Corps, Gabriel Axtell believed his identity died with the uniform. A career-ending injury, loss of purpose, depression, and suicidal thoughts nearly ended his life—but God used an unexpected series of moments to reveal a new mission that was greater than the one he left behind.
In this deeply personal conversation, Gabriel shares how a praying wife, a worship song, a men's retreat, and one life-changing encounter with Jesus transformed him from a broken veteran into a mentor helping other warriors find hope, healing, and purpose through Christ.
• Recognize why losing your military identity doesn't mean losing your God-given purpose.
• Understand how one act of obedience at a men's retreat completely changed Gabriel's life.
• Hear the powerful story of the night God intervened moments before Gabriel planned to take his own life.
• Learn how vulnerability, mentorship, and faith became the foundation for helping other veterans overcome crisis and rediscover hope.
Gabriel Axtell served 12 years in the United States Marine Corps, retiring as a Staff Sergeant after a career-ending injury. Today, he serves with The Warrior's Journey, mentoring veterans experiencing crisis while helping them discover hope, healing, and lasting purpose through a relationship with Jesus Christ. His testimony has encouraged thousands of veterans navigating the difficult transition from military service to civilian life.
⏱️ EPISODE CHAPTERS
00:00 – Introduction
00:26 – Gabriel's Marine Corps Story
07:53 – Growing Up in Church Without Knowing Christ
12:09 – A Wife's Prayers Changed Everything
15:38 – The Worship Song That Broke His Heart Open
21:35 – The Men's Retreat That Changed His Life
30:26 – Receiving God's Grace
38:52 – Career-Ending Injury & Losing His Identity
49:55 – The Night God Saved His Life
54:45 – Finding Purpose Through The Warrior's Journey
59:00 – Becoming a Recruiter for God's Kingdom
1:05:25 – Final Prayer & Closing
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