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How God Uses Your Sorrow and Pain

How God Uses Your Sorrow and Pain

Last updated on: November 2, 2024 at 6:54 am by Frank Viola

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How God Uses Your Sorrow and Pain 2024-11-02T06:54:25-04:00 Frank Viola

LOGO Patheos Explore the world's faith through different perspectives on religion and spirituality! Patheos has the views of the prevalent religions and spiritualities of the world.

Lakeea Kelly has just released a new book. It’s called TransHERmation: How God Can Take Everything You’ve Been Through and Transform You for His Glory!

I caught up with Lakeea recently to interview on her new book.

Enjoy!

There has been a plethora of books written on spiritual transformation. In that light, what provoked you to write your book?

Since I was a little girl, I had the desire to write a book. As I grew up, I continued my writing journey by taking creative writing classes in high school, writing poetry, and using writing as a tool to deal with my emotions. Journaling became a regular practice for me.

Fast forward to my adulthood, I was prophesied to on several occasions about writing books. At that time, I had no idea what I would write about, and I didn’t feel compelled to write a book immediately just because of those prophetic words. I knew it was something that God had to move upon me to do; it wasn’t something I could do on my own based solely on a prophecy.

One day, as I was sitting at my desk at work, it felt as if a wind suddenly swept into my office and hit my belly. It was the power of the Holy Spirit stirring within me. The Holy Spirit began to speak to me, saying, “it’s time for you to write your book.”

I felt God’s presence so strongly; I bowed my head on my desk and began to cry. I knew I had to come into alignment and obedience with writing my book. I knew the time had come.

In that moment, I asked God, “What am I going to write about?” He said, “You’re going to write about transformation. You’re going to write about your testimony, your story, and how I transformed you.” My response was, “There are some areas I’m still dealing with.”

His instructions were clear: “Write. As you write, some things will break off you.” Shortly after, I had a conversation with an old high school friend who was a coach at the time. I spoke to her about a business idea and writing a book.

I was contemplating starting a traveling boutique clothing business, but she said, “No, write that book.” When she asked what it would be about, I said, “Transformation.” She said like, “TransHERmation” and told me to pray about it.

I instantly loved the name and knew it was right. And that is how my book: “TransHERmation: How God Can Take Everything You’ve Been Through and Transform You for His Glory” was birthed.

How long did it take you to the write the book from the very beginning to the time you turned the manuscript into the publisher?

It took me three months. My friend from high school that gave me the name TransHERmation, also told me to write my book in three months. And that is exactly what I did.

Most readers want to know the answer to this question when they consider buying the book – what’s in it for me? Why do I want to spend the money and time on buying your book? What am I going to get out of it? Please answer this question.

When people face life’s challenges and traumas, it often feels like those around them aren’t experiencing similar struggles. This can lead to feelings of isolation, misunderstanding, and shame. In my book, I am very transparent about how I dealt with rejection, abandonment, anger, depression, soul ties, and being a teen mom.

I want my readers to know they are not alone. My story is their story, even if the circumstances differ. By sharing my journey, I aim to make readers feel like they’re sitting down with a trusted friend who understands their pain and can guide them through it.

My book demonstrates the transformative power of God and how He can turn our pains into triumphs when we entrust Him with our traumas and toxic traits. Additionally, my book provides actionable steps on how to overcome depression, rejection, abandonment, soul ties, and navigate the challenges of being a teen mom. It doesn’t just tell you what to do; it shows you how to do it.

It’s an inspiring story of triumph, filled with God’s wisdom on overcoming and dealing with these issues. I also include prayers at the end of each chapter to encourage readers to keep God at the forefront of every issue in life.

In summary, my book offers a blend of personal testimony and practical guidance, providing hope, understanding, and actionable steps to help you transform your life through God’s power.

Share 3 “aha” moments that struck you the most when you were doing research for your book.

As I was doing research for my book, I delved into the concept of the Helmet of Salvation, especially during a chapter dedicated to it and the Holy Spirit. One pivotal insight was the historical context of the helmet during Apostle Paul’s time. It was designed to protect the head, face, and neck, vital areas crucial for a soldier’s survival in battle.

A severe head injury could render the rest of the armor useless, leading to loss of speech, paralysis, or even death. This highlighted how essential the Helmet of Salvation is for our spiritual well-being, protecting our minds from the enemy’s attacks, much like a helmet protects a soldier’s head.

Another significant revelation came from understanding the necessity of having support during intense battles. Drawing from Galatians 6:2, which emphasizes carrying each other’s burdens. I realized the importance of having “battle buddies” or intercessors when we are too weak to fight on our own.

During my severe depression, I needed others to stand in the gap for me until I regained strength and came to myself. This emphasized the idea that we sometimes need the support of fellow believers to uphold us in prayer and intercession.

The final aha moment was recognizing that the enemy’s primary goal is to attack our salvation. The Helmet of Salvation is not just our protection; it represents our security, joy, and peace in Jesus Christ. By safeguarding our minds with the Helmet of Salvation, we maintain our confidence and commitment in Christ.

The enemy seeks to strip us of our peace to gain access to our minds, but by focusing on the virtues mentioned in Philippians 4:8 – things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy, we can fortify our minds against his attacks.

Please answer the question in simple form: What have you found to be the keys to overcoming the awful feelings associated with rejection?

The keys to overcoming the awful feelings of rejection start with developing a personal and intimate relationship with Jesus Christ through prayer and reading the Bible. These practices form the foundation for dealing with rejection by helping you understand who we are through God’s eyes, and His will for your life. Romans 12:2 emphasizes the importance of renewing your mind to discern God’s will.

Knowing God’s will allows you to seek His validation rather than man’s approval. Rejection loses its power when you realize God has called you for a unique purpose, and you are approved by Him, not defined by other’s acceptance or rejection.

For those who don’t read too many books, give us a two or three paragraph summary of the key points you make in the book.

My book is a personal story of experiencing a major life shift due to depression in my late twenties. I went through an unexpected deep depression, which felt like being under a constant mental attack. This depression began with single thought of guilt and shame, which grew into a significant burden.

I struggled with feelings of unworthiness and was tormented by past mistakes, leading to a constant internal battle and immense emotional distress. Depression can start with one single negative thought planted by the enemy, which grows and distorts one’s perception of themselves and God’s truth.

However, I experienced a breakthrough when God’s light shone through the darkness, bringing clarity and hope. The journey out of depression required fighting through the Holy Spirit, perseverance, and endurance. This personal transformation is described as “TransHERmation,” highlighting God’s power to being about profound change and healing in one’s life.

Often rejection and even persecution comes from professing Christians, those who believe they are following Jesus, but who are not pleasing Him at all. What do you have to say about this? This kind of behavior has caused many people to become disinterested in following the Lord.

In my book, I discuss how God revealed to me that I was called to rejection, meaning I was not called to fit in or compromise the gospel of Jesus Christ. When Christians live a life of true holiness and righteousness based on the convictions of the Holy Spirit, they may face rejection and persecution from others, including professing Christians.

This often happens because their righteous living exposes the compromises in others’ lives, making them uncomfortable. True persecution for a Christian comes from living a life dedicated to righteousness, as this exposes the darkness in others who prefer to living according to the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and pride of life instead of dying to self.

Persecution happens when people resist the transformative work of the Holy Spirit and choose to follow the desires of the flesh instead of seeking God’s approval. Many professing Christians may reject or persecute those who live righteously because they themselves have not fully surrendered to God’s will. They seek the applause of man rather than the approval of God.

We are in a social media world and many professing Christians are going along with culture instead of Kingdom – God’s Word. Many are dealing with unhealed wounds of rejection and insecurities; this has called them to seek the applause of man and compromise. True persecution is a mark of belonging to Christ, as living a life sold out for Him will inevitably bring both glory and suffering.

Many people want the blessings – the material possessions, titles, and riches without the sacrifice and self-denial that true discipleship requires. Jesus told us to count the cost of following Him, and many turned away when He spoke of the requirements for true discipleship, such as drinking His blood and eating His flesh.

This meant giving up personal desires and facing hardships, which many found too difficult. True discipleship involves a willingness to endure persecution for His name’s sake. Many professing Christians don’t understand that genuine followers of Jesus will face persecution as a mark of being a follower of Jesus Christ.

The apostles rejoiced in their sufferings, recognizing that persecution was evidence that the Spirit of the Lord rested upon them. Unfortunately, some people prefer comfort over the challenges of true discipleship, leading to rejection and persecution of those who live fully for Christ.

Based on the feedback so far, what are readers saying about the book?

Readers are saying my book is relatable and inspirational. Many readers find my story deeply relatable, recognizing parallels in their own lives. The book is praised for helping readers grow closer to God, regardless of where they are in their spiritual journey.

Additionally, readers are saying my book is demonstrates honesty and transparency. Lakeea’s raw and real approach is appreciated for its honesty. Unlike, many who only show the highlights, she shares both the ups and downs of her journey.

This transparency has resonated with readers, reminding them that life is challenging but God’s love is unconditional. The honest portrayal of struggles as encouraged readers to confront their own past issues and realize they are not alone in their battles.

My book is described as motivational and inspirational, pushing readers towards personal growth and transformation. Readers find the insights on deliverance and discipleship authentic and valuable, aiding them in their spiritual journey.

Lakeea’s practical advice combined with her transparency and humor makes the book an engaging and beneficial read. My book is noted for being captivating, with many readers finding it hard to put down once they start reading. This something I have been told on numerous of occasions.

It sparks interest and keeps readers engaged, with a strong desire to see what comes next. Overall, “TransHERmation” is highly recommended for its ability to inspire, motivate, and guide women towards spiritual growth and self-discovery, all while being a relatable and engaging read.

How can people get your book — people who live in USA and those who live in other countries?

My book is located on all online platforms, including Barnes and Noble and Amazon.

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