In 2019 when I announced my engagement to my church community, I was ridiculed for choosing an unsaved man and told that if I decided to continue with the marriage, I would be relieved of my positions.
I was also told that I could not testify in church. I was made to believe that God would not have an interest in me nor consider me for anything good. Nevertheless, I continued with my decision, attended the same church, worshipped my way through and believed God for something bigger.
On January 4, 2021, I woke up reciting Isaiah 41:18 “I will open rivers in high places, and fountains in the midst of the valleys: I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water”.
I later printed the words and posted in my room, believing God, for something bigger. As I sat in church one Sunday, the Holy Spirit instructed me to “Now write”. It was revealed to me that people are hurting because they have accepted the version of themselves, as told by man and have forgotten who God has called them to be.
I later wrote a book entitled “Where Shame Ends, Grace Begins: Chronicles from the Redeemed” which captures the story of three youngsters who struggled with suicidal ideations, unforgiveness and fornication which led to pregnancy, despite being called Christians and how they were able to find restitution, with the help of non-judgemental clergy men.
My book was released in October of the same year and have since been used in book clubs both locally and internationally. Persons have also shared how the book has allowed them to return to Christ and improved their relationship with God.
In April 2022, the book was awarded second place in the Top Women’s Empowerment Category of the Kingdom Indie Author Awards. Shortly after, I was contacted by the Founder of Totally Well Women’s Community to engage women in group sessions.
My decision challenged me emotionally and spiritually, but God turned it around for my good. God did it for me!
Written by Kemone Francis
Jamaica