Interview/Book Review for, Where Was God, by Miss Read It All, Kimyatta Walker

Sheila L. Jackson

Posted on April 23, 2014 by kimyatta

Thank you for agreeing to be interviewed on Miss Read it All. 
Tell us a little bit about your writing journey.  What’s been your favorite part?


It has been an amazing ride. I have been blessed to meet so many great people along the way. Unlike most authors who knew writing was their passion since childhood, the writing bug didn’t hit me until later. I was an avid reader and loved to read anything that I could get my hands on as a teen. Although the road has not been easy, I was fortunate to meet established authors and also joined a writers group to help me hone my craft. I have many favorite moments on my writing journey, such as seeing how the words that I write inspire others. I have received numerous e-mails from readers, stating how my books have helped them to get through tough situations in their lives. I’m blessed because my work has touched Christians and the secular readers’ lives alike.


Give us some information on your latest work.


Where Was God, deals with a young lady (Fayth Angelica Hope) growing up in the house with an abusive mother. The emotional scar carries over into her adult life. The abuse caused her to become guarded and untrusting of others. She’s convinced herself that no man will ever love her, until she is assign to investigative, Jasion McCoy. Things will get hot and heated between the two as she tries, proving his guilt or innocence.


What kinds of things do you like to read?


I love reading suspense, thriller/action, romance, sci-fi, inspirational fiction and non-fiction books. I’m a well-rounded reader.


Do you have a favorite book?


I love, A Tale of Two Cities, by Charles Dickens. I have read it several times. I thought it was going to be another boring reading assignment when I was in the eighth grade, but I end up loving it. A favorite author? I have so many that I can’t choose.
I know the feeling!  :D


What was the last book you read?


The Joneses, by Shelia M Goss.

Ooooh…I read that too!  Loved it.  I know there’s a part 2 coming.  Has to be!


Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?


If writing is your passion, never let anyone stop you from doing just that. Know that it takes only one yes to fulfill your dreams. Rejection will come but use it as a teaching tool to better your craft. Don’t wallow in it; keep moving and one day someone will see your hard work.


What can we expect next from you?



I’m currently working on my second novel. Hopefully, if the time permits, I want to write a third, non-fiction inspirational book. I never want to forget where I started from.


How can fans get in touch with you?


They contact me at website: www.sheilaljackson2.com, my blogspot: http://sheilaljackson.blogspot.com/, e-mail me at: SJ@comcast.net, https://www.facebook.com/sheilalj, or https://twitter.com/sheilaljackson


Check out my review of Where Was God.


Where Was God? Fayth Angelica Hope, questioned after the death of her father. Reared by a mother who could give, Cruella Deville, a run for her money as, “The Queen of Mean,” Fayth turns her back on the church, her faith, and love. She believed, no, just and merciful God would have abandoned her to the harsh brutality of her mother’s iron fist. Her emotional and spiritual scars run deep, lasting into adulthood. 

As a promising investigative reporter, she decides to change her name. Her given name of Fayth has more curses attached to it than blessings. She hopes the switch to Angelica will give her the clean slate she desires. 


Assigned to investigate financial advisor Jasion McCoy, Angelica goes in determined to expose him for embezzlement. She hopes the story will advance her career as one of the top reporters across the country. Instantly, there is an attraction. But she hides her feelings from him. After a series of missteps, broken heartedness, and rejections in her past, she buries the notion of any man, especially a man of his caliber, ever loving her. With the evidence stacked against him, she believes his only interest in her, is to keep from going to prison. 

Top-notch financial advisor Jasion McCoy is in the middle of an embezzlement scheme. When Angelica Hope shows up in his office, he knows he’s in trouble. She is one of the hottest investigative reporters in Port City and now she’s gunning for him. How can Jasion convince her that he is innocent? And how can he hold back his feeling for the woman who’s out to do him in?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Meet twelve year old Fayth Hope.  She’s burying her father in our first scene.  Immediately, you feel her pain, but you also see that you’re not going to like her mother.  She is a bit…umm….ratchet..(that’s all I could use to describe it!).  Fayth was taught by her father how to love God and how to serve him.  She trusts God, but when God doesn’t deliver her from her abusive mother’s clutches, she loses her faith and vows to never trust Him again.


As a grown up, Fayth has stayed true to her word.  God is not a part of her life and she has no desire to know him.  I think that’s something we can all relate to.  At some point on our journey, we’ve had to wonder why God didn’t respond a certain way to a situation.  He is the Creator and it just seems like He wouldn’t let anything bad happen.  Right?  That’s where Fayth…I mean…Angelica was stuck.  She couldn’t let go and really understand that everything that happened to her (yeah…you find out..and you will NOT like it) was something to build her and perhaps help someone else.  Often, we are so bogged down in how our circumstances bother us but we don’t take a moment to see how it may help someone else…


Now…right off there were some things that you know will happen.  This is a romance and suspense novel.  What you don’t see even when you think you do, is a twist the author throws in.  I didn’t see that coming and for a minute I was confused!  Anyhoo, this story is a good quick read.

As the Page Turns... with Author Sheila L. Jackson

Author Interviews, Guest Posts, Book Giveaways
 Books, Books, Books!

Can you tell us what your book, Where is God?, is about?

Where Was God is a book that deals with many of the issues we are faced with today. Fayth Angelica Hope is a young woman who, her mother despised since birth. She is physically, mentally, and emotionally abused, which carries over into her adult life. She turns her back on the church and her family who she thought was supposed to protect her, her faith, and love. In a nut-shell, it’s about redemption, with the help of a young man, by the name of Jasion McCoy who teaches her how to love again.

Why did you write your book?

I wanted to bring many of the issues most families sweep underneath the rug to light. Parents don’t realize how they scar their children for life. Some are able to rise above the abuse, while others succumb to it, never able let go and live a normal life.

Can you tell us a little about your main and supporting characters?

Fayth Angelica Hope (Heroin) wants to live a normal life, but she is crippled by her past abuse and failed relationships. Jasion McCoy (Hero) falls for all the wrong women in his search for Mrs. Right. Unfortunately, for him, he may be serving prison time for embezzlement. Nicole Swaggart (Antagonist) is   self-centered. She plays by nobody rules, except her own. There are more shady, hilarious, and dramatic characters inside the pages of, Where Was God.

Are you consciously aware of the plot before you begin a novel or do you discover it as you write?

I discover the plot as I go. Just like the readers, I want to be surprise of how the story will turn out. Knowing the plot beforehand, bores me, I love the not knowing until the juices of creativity starts flowing.

Your book is set in Port City, Louisiana. Can you tell us why you chose this city in particular?

Port City is the name, native Louisianans use to refer to Shreveport. I choose this name, because I wanted a little bit of home in my book.

What would you do with an extra hour today if you could do anything you wanted?

I’d go hide somewhere and sleep. With two teenage, active daughters, one who plays high school varsity basketball, juggling a husband, and a career, leaves little time for me.

Can you tell us about your family?

I have the best family in the world. I am extremely close to my daughters, they love handing out with me. My husband supports my dreams. No matter what I want to do in life, he’s onboard with it.

What do you like the most about being an author?

I love touching people lives with the words God breathe into my spirit. Knowing that lives are changed and life lessons are learned through the stories I tell, is a blessing as well as rewarding.

What is the most pivotal point of a writer’s life?

Knowing a publishing company believes in my story and me as an author enough to sign me to a contract. To me, its validation for all the doors that were closed in my face and that one person believed in my work to get behind my project to bring it to the public.

What kind of advice would you give other fiction authors?

If writing is your passion, never let anyone stop you from doing just that. Know that it takes only one yes to fulfill your dreams. Rejection will come but use it as a teaching tool to better your craft. Don’t wallow in it; keep moving and one day someone will see your hard.

Where Was God Blog Tour: Interview With Sheila Jackson

            

I'd like to welcome Sheila Jackson to Shelf Full of Books for an interview today. She is the author of Where Was God? Their Hearts Burned to be Together.  Let's start with the interview Sheila, and then we'll tell everyone about your book.

The Interview

What was the inspiration for this book?

I wanted to address the long-term effects of abuse and the damages it causes.  We work, worship, and hang-out with people that have learned to mask their pain. Verbal and physical abuse is real. There is no magic pill for getting over it. We’ve always heard 

people say, “That happened years ago” Or “Snap out of it and move on with your life and stop playing the victim.” But what if the shoe was on the other foot?

How much of yourself is hidden in the characters in your book?  

A Lot. Some are lovable, witty, corny, dramatic, and aggressive. I have all these characteristics rolled up in one body, each show up in my life when they are needed.

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp? 

Yes. It’s okay to seek help when dealing with tough issues in your life. Asking for it doesn’t mean that you’re weak, but that you’re human.

How does your faith fit into your books? 

I couldn’t write Christian Fiction if my faith didn’t play a part in it. I have come through many obstacles in my life and had to lean on my faith, it helps me to write and let others know that they can get through their trials as well.

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor? 

Sarah Hamer, although she is not as popular as most romance writers, she took me under her wing and taught me valuable lessons about writing. Her teachings and critiques helped me to become the writer I am today.

Now for some fun questions.

What do you do to relax? 

I love shopping with my two teenage daughters, cook-outs, going to the movies, and having fun with good friends.

What is your favorite food? 

Fried catfish, shrimps, anything that has to do with seafood.

What is your pet peeve? 

I don’t like when people don’t clean behind themselves.

What is your favorite positive saying or motivational phrase? 

I coined this one myself years ago to keep me inspired, “I want more out of life than just to exist.”

Do you have a nickname? 

Yes. My mother-in-law calls me, She-She.

                                                                                                  

                                               The Book

Title: Where Was God? (Their Hearts Burned to be Together)
Genre: Christian Fiction Romance Suspense

Author: Sheila Jackson

Publisher: Concerning Life Publishing

Pages: 226 

Format: Paperback/Kindle

Synopsis: 

Where Was God? Fayth Angelica Hope, questioned after the death of her father. Reared by a mother who could give, Cruella Deville, a run for her money as, “The Queen of Mean,” Fayth turns her back on the church, her faith, and love. She believed, no, just and merciful God would have abandoned her to the harsh brutality of her mother’s iron fist. Her emotional and spiritual scars run deep, lasting into adulthood.
As a promising investigative reporter, she decides to change her name. Her given name of Fayth has more curses attached to it than blessings. She hopes the switch to Angelica will give her the clean slate she desires.


Assigned to investigate financial advisor Jasion McCoy, Angelica goes in determined to expose him for embezzlement. She hopes the story will advance her career as one of the top reporters across the country. Instantly, there is an attraction. But she hides her feelings from him. After a series of missteps, broken heartedness, and rejections in her past, she buries the notion of any man, especially a man of his caliber, ever loving her. With the evidence stacked against him, she believes his only interest in her, is to keep from going to prison.


Top-notch financial advisor Jasion McCoy is in the middle of an embezzlement scheme. When Angelica Hope shows up in his office, he knows he’s in trouble. She is one of the hottest investigative reporters in Port City and now she’s gunning for him. How can Jasion convince her that he is innocent? And how can he hold back his feeling for the woman who’s out to do him in?



Buy the Book at Amazon

Discuss this book in our PUYB Virtual Book Club at Goodreads by clicking HERE

Shelf Full of Books: Where Was God Blog Tour: Interview With Sheila Jac...

Shelf Full of Books: Where Was God Blog Tour: Interview With Sheila Jac...: I'd like to welcome Sheila Jackson to Shelf Full of Books for an interview today. She is the author of Where Was God? Their...

The Interview

What was the inspiration for this book?

I wanted to address the long-term effects of abuse and the damages it causes.  We work, worship, and hang-out with people that have learned to mask their pain. Verbal and physical abuse is real. There is no magic pill for getting over it. We’ve always heard 

people say, “That happened years ago” Or “Snap out of it and move on with your life and stop playing the victim.” But what if the shoe was on the other foot?

How much of yourself is hidden in the characters in your book?  

A Lot. Some are lovable, witty, corny, dramatic, and aggressive. I have all these characteristics rolled up in one body, each show up in my life when they are needed.

Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp? 

Yes. It’s okay to seek help when dealing with tough issues in your life. Asking for it doesn’t mean that you’re weak, but that you’re human.

How does your faith fit into your books? 

I couldn’t write Christian Fiction if my faith didn’t play a part in it. I have come through many obstacles in my life and had to lean on my faith, it helps me to write and let others know that they can get through their trials as well.

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor? 

Sarah Hamer, although she is not as popular as most romance writers, she took me under her wing and taught me valuable lessons about writing. Her teachings and critiques helped me to become the writer I am today.

Now for some fun questions.

What do you do to relax? 

I love shopping with my two teenage daughters, cook-outs, going to the movies, and having fun with good friends.

What is your favorite food? 

Fried catfish, shrimps, anything that has to do with seafood.

What is your pet peeve? 

I don’t like when people don’t clean behind themselves.

What is your favorite positive saying or motivational phrase? 

I coined this one myself years ago to keep me inspired, “I want more out of life than just to exist.”

Do you have a nickname? 

Yes. My mother-in-law calls me, She-She.

Cheryl's Christian Book Connection: First Chapter Review: Where Was God? by Sheila L. ...

Cheryl's Christian Book Connection: First Chapter Review: Where Was God? by Sheila L. ...: I received a copy of the first chapter of this book from the author through Pump Up Your Book Virtual Book Tours. BLURB:  Where Was...

COVER: While this certainly isn't a cover I would expect from a Christian suspense novel, it doesn't make me discount it right away either. I've always liked red on black, so it's attractive. I just feel it falls too heavily into a romance cover and doesn't portray the Christian or suspense aspects of the book at first glance.

FIRST CHAPTER: Angelica Hope has changed her name and severed all ties with her abusive mother. An investigative reporter, she is plagued by nightmares as a result of her traumatic childhood. With the help of a counselor, Angelica seeks to put her past behind her. Feeling like God abandoned her makes it challenging.

KEEP READING: I like that the author is tackling tough issues with this novel, but I fear regular readers of Christian fiction might have an issue with how detailed the abuse is. It certainly caught me off guard. The language is also edgy and raw. That said, I would definitely continue reading. You have a young woman who is trying to move beyond her past with the help of her counselor. She has felt abandoned by God, which makes the counselor's Christian principles tough to deal with. I would love to see if Angelica will stick with counseling and if she can reconcile her past and move forward. In addition, I'm eager to see what happens once she meets Jasion and the suspense kicks into full swing.

The Writer's Life Magazine

Interview with Sheila L. Jackson, author of 'Where Was God?'

Sheila L. Jackson lives with her family in Shreveport, Louisiana. She is an anointed speaker, teacher, and writer that utilize her gifts to carry the Word of God to those in need of spiritual soul food. Sheila has penned two, inspirational non-fiction books, The Enemy Within and Through the Eyes of God. She has also written several inspirational and social articles for a local newspaper and magazine. 

Her latest book is the Christian fiction romance suspense, Where Was God? (Their Hearts Burned to be Together).

For more information about this author and books, visit her website at www.sheilaljackson2.com.

Q: Welcome to The Writer's Life!  Now that your book has been published, we’d love to find out more about the process.  Can we begin by having you take us at the beginning? 

When I finished the first draft of my manuscript, it was trash. I have some knowledge of how to write a novel. I knew I needed help and eventually joined a writers group to assist me through the process. They taught me about POV, plotting, and all the important ingredients of writing a fictional novel. I listened to their critiques and applied what they taught me of how to get my manuscript published. I submitted it to publishers and agents, received many rejection letters, but I kept the faith. I knew that I had a great story. I just had to find the right publisher. Within four or five months of trying, a door was opened and I received my first contract for my romance novel. 

Where did you come up with the idea to write your book? I speak at numerous women conferences and found that there are many women and men that have been holding on to painful issues of their past. They are broken, wounded, and feel defeated. I wanted to write a story that gives hope and shed light as to why so many people are unable to move forward from hurtful events that have taken place in their lives.

Q: How hard was it to write a book like this and do you have any tips that you could pass on which would make the journey easier for other writers? 

Where Was God is my first fictional novel, it was a three years journey. At times, I wanted to throw in the towel, but in the end, I knew that I had a great story.   My love for writing and inspiring others gave me the strength that I needed to complete this story.

My encouragement to writers is that you align yourself with knowledgeable people, such as writers and critique groups. Attend writer conferences, go to the library and find books that will teach you about the publishing industry, how to find the right agent, and to fine tune your manuscript. 

Q: Who is your publisher and how did you find them or did you self-publish?

My Publisher is Concerning Life Publishing. I discovered them online while    browsing, Brian Grove website, How to Get Published with a Mainstream Traditional Publisher.

Q: Is there anything that surprised you about getting your first book published?

Yes. As a first time author seven years ago, I didn’t expect to be signed to a publishing contract within eight months of submitting it. I thought that the publishing companies did all the editing and marketing, but I quickly learn that the author played a part in the process of getting their book out to the readers.

Q: What other books (if any) are you working on and when will they be published?   

My next book, Joi and Payne, hopefully will be out by the end of 2014. And then, it’s on to the next book, Pastor Wright, which will be released in 2015.

Q: What’s your favorite place to hang out online? 

I love hanging out on Facebook. I joined the social media site as a way of networking years ago, and have made lasting friendships because of it.

Q: Finally, what message (if any) are you trying to get across with your book? 

I want to bring the lasting scars of abuse to light. Most families try to sweep their dirty little secrets under the rug, but they always come to surface. Parents don’t realize how they mar their children with hurtful words. Some are able to rise above physical and emotional abuse, while others succumb to it, never able let go and live a normal life.

  

Q: Thank you again for this interview!  Do you have any final words?  

Yes. If writing is your passion, never let anyone stop you from doing just that. Know that it takes only one yes to fulfill your dreams. Rejection will come but use it as a teaching tool to better your craft. Don’t wallow in it; keep moving and one day someone will see your hard.

Posted by Dorothy Thompson at 12:00 AM

Authors & Readers Book Corner

Interview with Sheila L. Jackson

Posted by tabeasley36 Teresa Beasley

           Author's BIO:

Sheila L. Jackson lives with her family in Shreveport, Louisiana. She is an anointed speaker, teacher, and writer that utilize her gifts to carry the Word of God to those in need of spiritual soul food. Sheila has penned two, inspirational non-fiction books, The Enemy Within and Through the Eyes of God. She has also written several inspirational and social articles for a local newspaper and magazine. Mrs. Jackson motto is: “I want more out of life than just to exist.” For more information about this author and books, visit her website at www.sheilaljackson2.com.

Q & A with Sheila L.  Jackson

How did you become a writer?

It was more spiritual for me. Although I love to read, writing had never entered my thoughts, until one day, I just believed that I could and did it. Unlike most writers who knew their calling when they were in grade school, mine came later for me.

What are you hoping readers take from your book?
That they never allow past issues to cripple their future.

If you were to write a book about a controversial topic, what would it be?
Abortion, it has been a controversial topic for years. Many are still arguing the fact, is the embryo a living being or not.

Are you an avid or occasional reader? If so, what is your favorite genre of books?
Yes, I’ve been a devoted reader since the eighth grade. I love books in multi-genres: Romance, not the sappy kind, suspense/drama, Sci-fi, and inspiration/Christian fiction and non-fiction.

If you could interview one of your favorite authors, who would it be? Why?
ReShonda Tate Billingsley. We met at a book signing that we were both schedule for at different times. She reached out to me first, after hers had ended, which blew my mind. Here I was a newbie and this literary giant came to say that if I ever had any questions, to feel free to contact her. I will never forget that day and pray as I move up the literary ladder that I can make an impressive impact on someone’s life.

If you could make a movie out of one of your books, which one would it be?
Where Was God (Their Hearts Burned to be Together). It has a great storyline, romance, drama, and suspense, all the ingredients that makes a great movie.

Which marketing/promotions or publicity strategy has worked best in your favor?
Social Media has been great, but public speaking and book signings has helped me to come face to face with readers who like the type of books that I write. I’m now, trying to branch out and do a book tour. We will see how it goes.

Which do you like better traditional or self-publishing? Why?
I like traditional publishing better, it alleviates most of the leg work. With self- publishing, everything is all on you. I just don’t want the headache by going that route, but who knows; one day I just might give it a try.

What new projects are you working on?
I’m currently writing my second novel and fine tuning my messages for upcoming women conferences, where I am the keynote speaker.

Where can readers find you?
The readers can locate me at:  www.sheilaljackson2.com,

http://www.facebook.com/sheilalj

http://twitter.com/sheilaljackson

https://www.goodreads.com/sheilaljackson

Barnes and Noble

Amazon

Smashwords/ebooks

 Kobo/ebooks

                                        About The Book

Where Was God? Fayth Angelica Hope, questioned after the death of her father. Reared by a mother who could give, Cruella Deville, a run for her money as, “The Queen of Mean,” Fayth turns her back on the church, her faith, and love. She believed, no, just and merciful God would have abandoned her to the harsh brutality of her mother’s iron fist. Her emotional and spiritual scars run deep, lasting into adulthood.

As a promising investigative reporter, she decides to change her name. Her given name of Fayth has more curses attached to it than blessings. She hopes the switch to Angelica will give her the clean slate she desires.Assigned to investigate financial advisor Jasion McCoy, Angelica goes in determined to expose him for embezzlement. She hopes the story will advance her career as one of the top reporters across the country. Instantly, there is an attraction. But she hides her feelings from him. After a series of missteps, broken heartedness, and rejections in her past, she buries the notion of any man, especially a man of his caliber, ever loving her. With the evidence stacked against him, she believes his only interest in her, is to keep from going to prison.

Top-notch financial advisor Jasion McCoy is in the middle of an embezzlement scheme. When Angelica Hope shows up in his office, he knows he’s in trouble. She is one of the hottest investigative reporters in Port City and now she’s gunning for him. How can Jasion convince her that he is innocent? And how can he hold back his feeling for the woman who’s out to do him in?

Doing The Impossible/ Faith

 By Trenton Battle

In our impossible times we can only put our trust, and surrender our being exclusively to God because with Him all things are possible. "And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible" (Mark 10:27).

Man bears continued witness to his inability to do a myriad of things; they are impossible to man in spite of his great earthly achievements. The mere fact that a man dies, willingly or not, having no power to revive him, is self-evident that the realm of impossibility has always existed with him. Not so with God, for He is and always will be eternal and omnipresent. God is I AM that I AM; I exist because I exist, and all else exists because I AM.

The impossible [baw-tsar = incomprehensible {unintelligible, unknowable, incapable of being understood, unfathomable}, to be cut off, restrained, to make inaccessible, to fortify] will always exist for man because he is a finite created being, and he is corrupted with sin. The mere thought of God having eternal existence is unintelligible and unfathomable to man; the thought alone would cause his brain to experience pain.

Yet there are those who are quite able to comprehend the eternal existence of God without the pain of the mind. Therefore, we must consider what Jesus was saying when He said there are things impossible for man. It is quite evident and well documented that God has granted man the power to do the impossible.

The million (oh, we're in economic chaos), no, trillion dollar question is: What manner of man was Jesus referring to? In Mark 10:27 Jesus makes reference to the [aw-dawm = man of the dust of the ground, earthy man, man of flesh and blood]; the aw-dawm man houses the nephesh soul, which abides within the blood of man. The nephesh soul is the soul that chose to sin, and the one appoint to surely die if left unrepentant. "For the life [nephesh = soul] of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls [nephesh]: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul [nephesh]" (Leviticus 17:11).

Jesus, the Son of Man [aw-dawm] possesses an Adamic man; so why aren't things impossible to Him? Jesus' Adamic nature was without sin; therefore, sin within our Adamic nature makes many things impossible for us to understand, fathom, or perform. Jesus did not say things were impossible to the spirit or [ish = man of fire, glory]. "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" (Hebrews 11:6).

Faith belongs to the realm of the spirit of man, that is, the ish man; therefore, without faith arising within the ish-spirit man, things become impossible to the Adamic man. Only as the Adamic man working through the faith of Christ in the ish-man can that which is impossible to man be made possible.

With God all things are possible [be able, any at all (ways), attain, can, could, to be permitted to, endure, might, overcome, have power, prevail, still, suffer (allow, permit)].

Through God's yaw-kowl prevailing and overcoming power and might; He allows us to do the impossible or endure or overcome the impossible. In all instances; it God and not us who are the Source.

Caleb understood God yaw-kowl overcoming power. "And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome [yaw-kowl] it" (Number 13:30).

Caleb had a relationship with God's yaw-kowl power, and in his ish-spirit man of fire, he knew the LORD would permit them to prevail over the inhabitants of Canaan's Land; it was God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and their seed after them.

On the contrary, those men that went with Caleb to spy out the land brought an evil report back to Moses and the people. "But the men [enoshe = weak, feeble, frail, melancholy, sick, mortal] that went up with him said, We be NOT able [yaw-kowl] to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we" (Numbers 13:31).

The power of life and death are surely in the tongue; the words of the other spies bear witness to that truth. Let us have the faith of Christ working in our spirit man that we may be one of the ones God can perform the impossible through for our lives and others.

God bless you,

Overcoming Adversities

By Sheila L. Jackson

I decided to write this blog, because it amazed me at the many men and women dealing with hurtful issues in the church. Whether it is rape, molestation, incest, adultery, or betrayal, these traumatic experiences will hinder your spiritual walk. Most insensitive people will say, “Get over it, that happened in the past.” But it’s easier said than done. When a person has been sexually and verbally abused, or even stalked in the church, the event is traumatic. There is no magic pill to relieve the hurt, shame, and stress that it causes.

As I speak out about overcoming adversities at women conferences, I began to see a large number of men sharing their stories of abuse in the church, as well. Victims of this nature will not come forward, for fear of being blamed for what happened to them. No woman, man, or child asked to be abused, hurt, and treated like trash. As women, we are the worst at pointing our fingers and blaming the victim for what happened. No one has the right to violate another person.

80% of rape victims know their rapist; only a small percentage is raped by strangers. Rape doesn't just happen in our homes, schools, or place of business. Today, many are being violated in the very place we believe to be a safe haven— the church. The world is a cold and cruel place, if we're not protected at church, where can we go to feel safe?

I heard a radio personality say that pastors have no business counseling their congregation on such issues as marriage, incest, or rape. He went on to say, “They are not equipment to handle such in-depth issues. I agree with the radio personality to a certain degree. Unless you have a PH degree in psychology/sociology to know the warning signs of abuse, you are not qualified or equipped to council on such matters. There are many broken people sitting in our congregations Sunday after Sunday turning to their leaders for help, only to receive uneducated and nonspiritual advice. I applaud those church leaders who have further their education on this subject, in order to better help their members.

How can victims overcome adversities such as these? Through prayer, seeking professional counseling, and know that what happened to you, is not your fault. In I Corinthian 5, God left rules and regulations to follow when dealing with a sexually perverted member of the congregation. Many pastors seemed to avoid this book. They make excuses and hide behind church protocol to keep from dealing with such hard-hitting issues, but know that God will hold them accountable for not getting their parishioners the help they need.
 

To overcome adversities in the church, educate yourself, your spiritual healing depends on it. Most preachers are concerned with packing the church pews each Sunday morning, building bigger sanctuaries, and lining their pockets with money. Your feelings and interest are little or no importance to them. Get the help you need, even if it means moving to another church. 

CWS Press/Interview with Sheila L. Jackson

I would like to welcome Mrs. Sheila L. Jackson and known to some as Missionary Jackson from Shreveport Louisiana. Mrs. Jackson is an anointed speaker, teacher, and writer that utilize her gifts to carry the Word of God to those in need of spiritual soul food. She is the author of “The Enemy Within” and “Through the Eyes of God.”

Hello Missionary Jackson and welcome to Christian Women Lifestyle xPress. Tell the readers about yourself and what inspires you to use your craft to feed God’s children.

Hi Christian Women Lifestyle xPress.

 I still reside in Shreveport with my husband and two daughters. I graduated from Booker T. Washington H.S in 1984. I work as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist and hold a Bachelor’s of Science degree from ULM of Monroe, LA and an Associate of Science degree from Southern University, Shreveport, LA. I am currently working on my first Christian Fiction Novel. But, I do plan to continue writing Christian Non-fiction. Because I love to inspire, encourage, and motivate people to be the best that they can possibly be.

My love for people inspired me to use my gifts to feed God’s children. Since childhood, people have always confided in me with their most intimate secrets, things they couldn’t entrust with family members or close friends. So, it seems natural as an adult to continue that trust along with sharing God’s Word to those that seek answers to their everyday problems.

Tell us about “The Enemy Within” and Through the Eyes of God. What message did God want you to deliver through these books?

“The Enemy Within,” deals with self. Many times we blame others for our shortcomings, but Romans 7:21 says, “When I would do good evil is present with me.”  With all the good that we do, there is still, room for improvement.  It teaches also that there is a war raging inside us all and depending on the ammunition we use (God’s Word or Worldly Knowledge) will determine the outcome of who will win─ your flesh or your spirit man.

“Through The Eyes of God,” deals with how we allow the words of others to mold and shape us into someone we’re not. Psalms 139:14 say, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made”. This book brings out tough issues, such as self-hatred, identity crisis, the grasshopper image (believing the negative words people speak into your life), and prejudging others.

God spoke to my spirit about writing these books, because there are so many people that are hurting. Most books only give us what psychologists’ says. But I use God’s Word to show the reader how to become who created them to be.   

How long have you been a missionary? Explain to CWL readers a missionary job and how to become a missionary?

I have been a missionary for 13 years.

 At the church where I attend, missionaries’ roles are the same as ministers (to preach God’s Word). But we are to also go out and minister to those that are confined in hospital, prisons, or in their homes, because of illness that prevent them from coming to church.  We are to make ourselves available as counselors as well.

To be a missionary at my church, you must be anointed and show some evidence that God is moving in your life. Because, it’s a tiresome job and if it isn’t your passion, you will fall by the wayside. This is not a job that you can apply for. My pastor saw the gift in me, because I had been helping people long before I took the title as a missionary. God called us all to serve, so if you have a problem with serving others, than this job is not for you.

When you are performing your missionary duties where some of the places you visit and what are your main goals while you are performing these duties?

I visit schools, women and youth events, churches, hospitals, prisons, colleges, and nursing homes. I go wherever people need me or want to hear me.

My goal is to give people hope. When I’m lead to go to the nursing homes, my daughters and I will sing or play games with the elderly residents. Sometimes all they want is companionship. The other places I listed, I teach, pray, and listen at them voice their hurts or celebrate their accomplishments with them.

Many places call upon me as their keynote speaker to deliver an inspirational message to their congregation, youths, banquets, or women events

.

What words of encouragement could you leave with the readers who are struggling in their walk with God? We have all been there. But I am a praying woman, so I would encourage the readers to pray and seek God for the answers that they are searching for. Get away from negative people, so you can hear God when He speaks. Read the Bible; because that’s a Christian map to this tough journey we are on. Bible study and Sunday school is where it all begins, because with your pastor’s help, you can get your questions answered in those settings. Many people hate to attend them, but you will not survive as a Christian if you do not get your spirit man fed.

During the birthing process of your books what scriptures did you rely on the most and why? Habakkuk 2:2,  And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.

2 Timothy 1:7, For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

These scriptures kept me going because, when God began to speak to me about writing. As long as I was doing nothing, everybody loved Sheila, but when I accepted the things that God was calling me out to do, the hellhounds broke loose. I felt alone and thought I had heard wrong, the mission that He had called me out to do.  God later revealed to me that I had to go through those wilderness experiences to develop tough spiritual skin. I’ve learned that as God elevates you higher, the attacks from Satan are that much stronger. God sends us through the storm, because it will keep us on our knees depending on Him.

There is so much more to Missionary Jackson, can you tell the readers how they can find out more about you? Yes, they can go to my website: www.sheilaljackson2.com, facebook.com/sheilalj, or http://twitter.com/sheilaljackson

How can your books be purchased? Through amazon.com, www.sheilaljackson2.com, Barnes and Noble, and on all online websites were books are sold.

I thank you Missionary Jackson for taking the time to speak with and encourage CWL readers. I pray God bless your craft to not only help feed souls but win them as well. Thank you for inviting me.

Conquering Your Fears

I remember as if it was yesterday when God spoke to my spirit about writing a book. I did not want to take on the task, because of fear. Fear of what others would think when I told them what God was calling me to do. I had to do some long, hard praying, to make sure that I heard Him correctly. When I held the book in my hands for the first time, I thought that I was going to faint, because it was now a reality. The secret that I kept for eight long months was now out in the open. As a first time author eight years ago, I had to learn how

to conquer my fears against those who knew me best. Would they accept my new calling? Or would they perceive it as a joke? At any rate, I trusted God and overcame my fears to be the person that He called me to be. I did not let what others thought of me change the path that God had for my life.

If you do not conquer your fears, God’s plans for your life will be delayed. If He told you to step out on faith and believe in His Word, what else do you need? But, you have allowed others to tell you what you can and cannot do. Some people do not want to see you move forward. So, they use their negative influences to try and hold you back. It’s time to learn your enemies' tactics when they come to poison your mind with self-doubt. They will try every trick in the book to keep you from succeeding and moving forward to a life of prosperity.

Those that pretended to be your friends loved it when you felt defeated and had to lean and depend on their phony support— thinking that they meant you well when they really did not. They gloated over the fact that they had you believing that they were your friends. When all along they stuck close to you to make sure that your dreams would never come to fruition. Look, listen, and learn their schemes. Sometimes people stick close to you in the disguise of fake friendships just to keep feeding you negative information, in hopes to stagnant your plans in life.

Whenever you talk about the positive things that God is doing in your life, watch their conversation turn negative. With God, there is no negativity in what He speaks. God only wants to empower your life through His Words. He wants to set you free from the crippling conversation that has been planted and rooted in your mind by family and friends. God knows that you cannot move forward in Him, until you have mentally and spiritually broken that defeated image of yourself. He wants you to see your self-worth in Him, so that you will not give others the power to destroy your dreams.

I was always told from a very young age, “To have peace inwardly is worth more than money in the bank.” You can sleep at night without a care, knowing that God will protect you from the slander of your enemies— remember talk is cheap. Never give a person power over you, because the moment you do, you will surely be defeated. You cannot choose the family that you were born into, but you can choose your friends and the people that you allow into your life.
 

Fear is your worst enemy, because it causes you to lose your faith. When you complain it brings to reality what you have dreaded the most—failure. There are those that will die in their situations because they cannot see pass their “poor is me attitude.” God told Moses to tell the people, what they feared the most would be the very thing that will destroy them. 

Instead of conquering and living in the land, that God had promised and prepared for them. A land that was already fertile. All they had to do was conquer it and move in, but the Israelites would wander in circles in the wilderness, until all those that complained against God died. Fear was the culprit that caused them not to live the life that He had planned for them. Fear will be the force that will destroy us today. 

The devil will always paint the picture to make it seem as though life was good when people who had control over you were mentally, physically, and spiritually beating you down. As soon as God wants to deliver you from those bad situations and take you to a place where you can be free, you rebel. Satan does not want you to know that through Christ there is deliverance from the negative reports that had you bound to the pressures of life. Whining will only keep you in those predicaments, until you eventually succumb to your situation.

It’s time to rise above the influences of fear and see yourself as the victor in everything that you set out to do. When you have conquered your fears, you can move on to the next chapter of your life. With faith, prayer, and determination, the sky will be the limit for you, because you have finally believed the report of the Lord.

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