Can I get candid with you? I know I have been teasing you with my upcoming news, but now I can share what is going on! I have been blessed to be able to connect with an incredibly talented writer named Heather Hart, who is the founder of “Candidly Christian.”
Heather and I connected almost two years ago through blogging and she was asking for stories to compile into a book about struggles Christian women have had in our lives. I took a leap of faith and submitted my story, “Baby Blues”, to Heather. My story was about my struggle with PPD, better known as Post-Partum Depression. I don’t want to give too much away, but I am happy to announce that Heather chose my story to be published in her book called, “Candid Conversations.” I had always wondered why PPD happened to me, but now I know the reason because it allows me to have great empathy and compassion for those who have been through it, and for those who may be facing post-partum depression. It was an extremely difficult time in my life and there weren’t many women willing to talk about this issue. I have learned, however, that not talking about issues only compounds the problem. When we become vulnerable in our struggles, it allows others to come forward with their own story. When we choose to open an honest dialogue with others, the enemy can no longer keep us in bondage through misplaced guilt and shame. There is nothing to be guilty or ashamed about if you have or are experiencing PPD. The important thing is to keep talking until someone listens.
“Candid Conversations” are stories of women who have chosen to share their struggles in order to inspire, encourage and empower other women to keep moving forward. While reading these stories I have laughed, cried and was encouraged because we all need to know is we are not alone. The enemy wants you to believe you are, but God never leaves his children. I was first drawn to “Candidly Christian” because of the everyday life stories of women who were living out their faith. These stories were inspiring, encouraging and brutally honest. It was so refreshing to find a website where women were sharing real life in real conversations.
As women of faith it doesn’t mean our lives are tidy, perfect or anywhere near a bed of roses. We all struggle at times with various issues including parenting, marriage, divorce, health and faith issues. Becoming a believer doesn't make you immune to the world's problems, but it does help you to live through and deal with the problems of the world because of your hope in Jesus. Share on XBecoming a believer doesn’t make you immune to the world’s problems, but it does help you to live through and deal with the problems of the world because of your hope in Jesus.
I believe the enemy fears what this book can do. When an issue is no longer hidden in the darkness but brought to light, healing takes place and our story becomes God’s glory. For many of us, during our struggles we have felt the attacks of the enemy. As Heather was beginning to put this book together, she developed some serious health issues and had to take time off to heal and recuperate. Heather has been a great example of perseverance, but more importantly her heart to help others has never wavered. I believe this book will resonate with so many of my sisters because of the raw and real conversations.
At the end of each story there are scriptures and some very thought-provoking questions. Our prayer is you will give yourself time to dig a little deeper and find that place within your heart for your own healing. Everybody has a story that needs to be told, and trust me, there is someone who needs to hear your story so they don’t feel alone or abandoned. Share your story and allow God to use you to help another sister along the way. It is important to have “Candid Conversations”
The great news is you can pre-order your copy for Kindle here: http://candidlychristian.com/candid-conversations/ It will also be available in paperback. Please make sure you scroll down to the bottom and click on pre-order. “Candid Conversations” will be available for your Kindle on August 13th.
Congratulations. The world really works in mysterious ways, seems like things came full circle for you!
I am so thrilled that something like this has happened for you. How very incredible!
Hi, Becca!
Thank You so much! I’m thankful to God for the opportunity to use my gifts for His glory!
This book sounds awesome! Love this line, “Becoming a believer doesn’t make you immune to the world’s problems, but it does help you to live through and deal with the problems of the world because of your hope in Jesus.” Amen! Praying God’s favor and anointing over Heather’s book, your story and the other stories, Sheila.
Thank You Karen! My prayer is God will use this to empower and encourage others in their faith and give them the strength to share their stories too!
I love that concept for the book. Too often we only share the wonderful things about life. We want people to get the idea that our lives are perfect, or at least close to it. But it’s so important to share the difficult things so others know they aren’t alone.
Hi, Emily!
I couldn’t agree with you more! It is because of our imperfections that we have a story to share to give God the glory He deserves. Isn’t it freeing to know we don’t have to be perfect?
Wow! This looks like it’s going to be such a great book! Thank you for sharing.
Hi, Emily!
I hope you enjoy it! All of us are very excited to share our stories and encourage others!
Looks like a great read!! Thanks for sharing your story.
Hi, Amanda!
It IS a great read! I love when women can get together to use their stories for God’s glory and be authentic with one another.
I look forward to reading this book!
I love how you say, “When we choose to open an honest dialogue with others, the enemy can no longer keep us in bondage through misplaced guilt and shame.” I couldn’t agree more.
When my daughter went through depression for a few years it was a hard time. Not many of my friends wanted to talk to me, they judged because they didn’t understand. But then there were those who encouraged, prayed, and walked with us. It was necessary for me to talk about it so that the trial didn’t crumble me. Likewise, I developed a small group of teen girls to study the Bible. This resulted in giving my daughter a safe place to share and be influenced by God-fearing and caring young women. They were a treasure to her healing.
Hi, Marcie!
My brother struggled with mental illness and I know exactly what you are talking about. My brother was rejected from the church because they didn’t understand it nor wanted to try. My parents ended up starting a support group at a different church which helped parents learn how to cope and give support to one another. Blessings to you and what a way to empower those girls!
Sounds like you found a great resource for yourself
Hi, Rebecca
Yes and for many others too!
Looks like a great book. A much-needed resource!
Hi, Nancy!
I can promise you it is a GREAT book because every story is inspired by Jesus 🙂 I hope you enjoy our “Candid Conversations!”
I love when Jesus finds his way into your conversations, those become such special moments. Congratulations on the book, this is so exciting! Thanks for sharing!
Hi, Sydney!
I do too! Finding Jesus in the everyday moments is what gets us through every moment of the day! Thank You and I am very excited!
Thank you for sharing you story and the information about the book
Hi, Yvonne!
You are so welcome! I hope you will enjoy my full story and the other incredible stories from the heart!
That is so wonderful, Sheila. Congratulations! It sounds like it will be a wonderful book and a much needed companion for many women who are struggling! Thanks for sharing this. – Amy
http://stylingrannymama.com/
Hi, Amy!
Thank You so much Amy! Our whole team is very excited because we know God has given each of us a story to share! Our prayer is lives would be forever changed because of God’s mercy, grace and hope!
This is exciting news so happy for you my Friend! xo
Hi, Sher!
Thank You so much my sweet friend! Many blessings to you and I hope you enjoy the book!I love having candid conversations with you! 🙂
Congratulations my Friend!!! This is exciting news! xo
Such great news! I’m so glad you’ve been recognized for your incredible talent and heart.
I’m sure the entire book will be full of incredible Jesus moments that will encourage every single reader.
Hi, Toni!
Thank You so much and you are right there are many Jesus moments that will encourage and inspire the hearts of the readers!
What a blessing you are to so many women. Now your ministry will spread even further. I’m so happy for you.
Hi, Linda!
It is because of your endless prayers and constant encouragement that keeps me going! Love you!
Thank you so much for sharing, Sheila! And for your kind words. You are such a blessing, and I am honored to have you as part of this project.
Hi, Heather!
I can’t begin to tell you how blessed I am by being a part of this project. I am truly humbled by your belief in me as a writer to even be considered part of this amazing project. I am excited to see where this project takes us and all those whose lives are impacted by our struggles and can find the hope of Christ.
This is wonderful news Sheila! I’m so happy for you. Congratulations.❤️❤️❤️
Hi, Cathy!
Thank You Cathy! You have been such an incredible supporter and encouragement! I know how much you love to read and I can’t wait for you to read these amazing stories of hope, faith, encouragement and hope! Love you friend!